Strangest Fish, The

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with a secret that has become too heavy to carry or a responsibility that is growing faster than they can manage. Katherine Arden crafts an atmospheric and slightly eerie tale about a young girl who discovers a strange, small fish that begins to grow at an impossible rate, mirroring the way hidden worries can consume a child's inner world. As the creature expands, so does the protagonist's anxiety, offering a powerful metaphor for the weight of things we keep to ourselves. While the story features elements of folklore and the supernatural, its core is deeply grounded in the emotional reality of growing up and learning when to ask for help. It is ideal for children ages 8 to 12 who enjoy a touch of mystery and 'spooky' atmosphere while exploring themes of resilience and letting go.