The Legend of the Wandering King

Reach for this book when your teen is struggling with the weight of perfectionism or an intense, competitive drive to be the best. It is a profound resource for the child who feels crushed by failure or who tends to define their entire self-worth through their talents and accolades. Set in pre-Islamic Arabia, the story follows Prince Walid, whose desperate desire to win a legendary poetry competition leads him to commit a series of cruel acts against a humble carpet weaver. This is a story about the long road to redemption, the heavy burden of guilt, and the realization that true greatness is found in humility rather than fame. It is an ideal pick for older middle grade and high school readers who are ready for a sophisticated, philosophical journey about righting one's wrongs. Parents will find it opens a natural door to discussing how our choices affect others and why it is never too late to seek forgiveness.