The Farthest-Away Mountain

Reach for this book when your child feels limited by their surroundings or expresses big dreams that others dismiss as unrealistic. It is a perfect choice for the young explorer who feels a 'calling' to do something different than the status quo, even if they cannot yet explain why. Dakin is a determined nearly 15-year-old who ignores the skepticism of her village to pursue three specific goals: visiting a mysterious mountain, meeting a gargoyle, and marrying a prince. As she journeys toward the Farthest-Away Mountain, she encounters magical obstacles that test her ingenuity and kindness. This story subtly shifts the traditional fairy tale narrative, focusing on personal agency and the discovery that our initial desires often transform into deeper, more meaningful purposes. It is a gentle yet empowering read for the 8 to 12 age group.