Time Magic That Cannot Be Performed

A parent would reach for this book when their child is wrestling with a profound mistake or the heavy realization that some actions cannot be undone. It speaks directly to the 'what if' cycle that children often enter after a social fallout or a moment of deep regret. The story follows a mysterious shopkeeper who offers the chance to travel back in time, but at a cost that forces the protagonists to weigh the value of their present reality against a corrected past. While the magical premise is enchanting, the heart of the book is a sophisticated exploration of shame, forgiveness, and the ethical weight of our choices. Set against a backdrop of Japanese folklore and contemporary life, it handles sensitive topics like grief and social pressure with a gentle hand. It is ideal for middle schoolers (ages 9 to 13) who are beginning to understand that growing up means living with the consequences of one's decisions, providing a safe space to discuss redemption without easy answers.