The Book of Secrets

Reach for this book when your child is starting to value strategy and observation over physical prowess, or when they feel like an outsider because of their quiet nature. Set in a rich medieval world, it follows Max, a young man who serves as a scribe for a group of knights. Unlike typical fantasy heroes, Max must rely on his literacy and keen intellect to navigate a dangerous quest to find a missing Duke. The story beautifully illustrates that words and records are just as powerful as swords. This is an ideal choice for the 10 to 14 age range, particularly for kids who are reflective or artistic. It moves beyond simple adventure to explore the weight of secrets and the integrity required to handle them. Parents will appreciate how it models a different kind of masculine strength, one rooted in loyalty and the ethical use of information rather than dominance.