Star in the Forest

Reach for this book when your child is processing a major family separation, particularly one involving legal or systemic barriers like immigration or deportation. It is a gentle yet profound resource for children who feel invisible or powerless in the face of adult circumstances. The story follows Zitlally, whose father has been deported to Mexico. As she retreats into a private world of old car parts behind her trailer park, she discovers a stray dog named Star and begins to believe that his safety is cosmically linked to her father's return. This lyrical novel explores the heavy themes of grief and loneliness through a lens of magical realism and the healing power of friendship. It is ideally suited for children ages 8 to 12, offering a mirror for those in similar situations and a window of empathy for others. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's internal struggle while gradually moving toward a message of resilience and community connection.