The Game

Reach for this book when your child feels stifled by strict rules or disconnected from a family that seems to hold onto secrets. It is an ideal choice for the middle-schooler who feels like an outsider and is beginning to question the 'why' behind the boundaries set by the adults in their life. The story follows Hayley, a girl raised in isolation by rigid grandparents, who is suddenly sent to Ireland to stay with a sprawling, chaotic extended family she never knew existed. While the plot involves a magical 'game' where children traverse a realm of myths, the heart of the book is about discovering one's identity and agency within a complex family tree. It explores themes of belonging, the weight of family history, and the transition from childhood obedience to independent thought. It is perfectly suited for ages 9 to 13, offering a sophisticated but accessible look at how we find our place in the world through both imagination and connection.