Starting Over in Sunset Park

A parent would reach for this book when their child is facing the daunting prospect of a major move or a shift in family structure, such as a parents' separation. It provides a gentle roadmap for navigating the 'in-between' feelings of missing an old home while cautiously opening up to a new one. The story follows Elena as she moves to the Sunset Park neighborhood of Brooklyn with her mother, capturing the bittersweet reality of leaving familiar spaces behind. Through Elena's eyes, the book explores themes of resilience and the quiet bravery required to make new friends. It is particularly appropriate for children ages 4 to 8, as it validates the anxiety of being the 'new kid' while highlighting the beauty of urban diversity and community support. Parents will appreciate the way it models emotional honesty, showing that it is okay to feel sad about what was lost even as life moves forward.