The House on the Hill

A parent might reach for this book when their child is feeling lonely or displaced after a divorce, especially during a summer of big changes. Set in a small town, the story follows ten-year-old Jenny during a quiet, lonely summer visit with her recently divorced father. To cope, she pours her imagination into a grand, empty house on a hill, creating a detailed fantasy life for the family she wishes lived there. This becomes her refuge and a way to process her new reality. This gentle, introspective chapter book is ideal for ages 9 to 12. It thoughtfully explores themes of loneliness, family love, and the power of imagination without delving into parental conflict. It's a comforting read that normalizes the quiet sadness that can accompany family transitions and shows a child finding strength and a sense of self from within.