The Lighthouse at the World's End

Reach for this book when your child feels the heavy weight of responsibility for a family member's health or when they are struggling to ask for help during a crisis. It is a whimsical yet deeply resonant story about Nine, a young girl on a quest to find a cure for her friend Flabberghast's life-threatening 'hiccups.' While the setting is a fantastical world of magical shops and lighthouse secrets, the core is a sensitive exploration of loyalty and the realization that no one has to carry a burden alone. Appropriate for ages 8 to 12, this story balances absurdist humor with a poignant look at the fear of loss. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's desire to 'fix' things for those they love while gently modeling the importance of teamwork and vulnerability. It is a wonderful choice for kids who enjoy high-stakes adventure but need a safe space to process complex emotions regarding illness and friendship.