The Doldrums

Reach for this book when your child feels stifled by the mundane and expresses a longing for a world that is bigger and more colorful than their daily routine. Archer B. Helmsley lives in a house filled with the relics of his famous explorer grandparents, yet he is forbidden from even leaving his own property. It is a story for the quiet dreamer who needs to know that their inner world is valid and that building a plan to explore the 'real' world is possible with the right friends by one's side. Through Archer's eyes, children explore the tension between safety and adventure. The book's droll humor and painterly illustrations provide a sophisticated but accessible reading experience. It is perfect for 8 to 12-year-olds who are beginning to assert their independence and question the boundaries set by protective adults. You might choose it to spark a conversation about taking calculated risks and the value of finding a 'crew' that understands your strangest ambitions.