The Janitor's Boy

A parent would reach for this book when their child is experiencing a sudden shift in social awareness, particularly if they are feeling embarrassed by their family's job, income, or status. Fifth-grader Jack is mortified when his peers discover his father is the school janitor. To distance himself from the ridicule, he lashes out with a messy act of rebellion that backfires. The story explores the complex transition from viewing parents as superheroes to seeing them as flawed (or seemingly lowly) individuals. It is a gentle yet profound look at shame, the weight of reputation, and the path toward genuine apology. Perfect for ages 8 to 12, it helps children navigate peer pressure while learning to value people for who they are rather than what they do.