The Bell Bandit

Reach for this book when you notice your child grappling with a grandparent's memory loss or feeling unsettled by changes in family traditions. While it is framed as a winter holiday mystery, it serves as a gentle bridge for discussing the complexities of aging and the shift from childhood innocence to a more mature understanding of family dynamics. As Jessie and Evan visit their grandmother, they realize she is not the same person they remember, adding a layer of poignant reality to their quest for a missing bell. Appropriate for elementary readers, this story balances a fun detective plot with deep emotional resonance. It is an ideal choice for parents who want to normalize the sadness that can accompany family visits while emphasizing that sibling bonds and new friendships can provide a sturdy safety net. The mystery keeps the pacing light, but the heart of the story is about empathy and adapting to life's inevitable changes.