The Girl Who Spun Gold

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the weight of high expectations or feels they have to be perfect to be loved. This West Indian retelling of the Rumpelstiltskin legend introduces Quashiba, a young woman whose mother brags that she can spin gold from straw. When the King demands she prove it, Quashiba must find a way to navigate an impossible situation while maintaining her sense of self. It is a powerful choice for children who feel anxious about performance or struggle with the pressure of being the center of attention. Hamilton's lyrical prose and the vibrant West Indian dialect create a rich, immersive experience that celebrates cleverness and resilience. While the stakes feel high, the story provides a roadmap for outsmarting a crisis and finding one's own voice. It is most appropriate for elementary-aged children who can appreciate the nuances of wit and the satisfaction of a heroine who saves herself.