The Lost Three

A parent might reach for this book when their child is devastated over losing a treasured object and struggling with big feelings of frustration and sadness. The Lost Three follows best friends Mateo, Lucy, and Sam who all lose their most prized possessions on the same day. Convinced a mystery is afoot, they band together to launch an investigation that takes them on a humorous adventure through their neighborhood and into the supposedly scary woods. This story gently explores resilience, teamwork, and the comfort of friendship. For readers ages 7 to 10, Annie Barrows' signature wit makes this a funny, engaging read that never feels preachy. It's an excellent choice for validating a child's feelings of loss while showing them that with a little courage and help from friends, problems that feel huge can be tackled one step at a time. It models problem-solving and turns a sad event into a catalyst for adventure and connection.