The Many Misfortunes of Eugenia Wang

A parent might reach for this book when their child feels perpetually unlucky or clumsy, and is internalizing minor mishaps as major personal failings. It speaks directly to the kid who sighs, "Why does this always happen to me?" The Many Misfortunes of Eugenia Wang follows a girl who is convinced she's cursed with the worst luck in the world. From tripping on flat surfaces to being a magnet for bird droppings, nothing seems to go right. Through the accessible and humorous graphic novel format, readers watch Eugenia navigate the cringeworthy moments of middle school, find a new friend who helps her reframe her perspective, and ultimately discover that she has the power to make her own luck. This story beautifully handles themes of resilience, self-confidence, and the power of friendship. It's a perfect read for ages 8 to 12, offering both laugh-out-loud entertainment and a comforting message. It shows kids that everyone has bad days and that focusing on friendship and self-acceptance is more important than a string of perceived failures. It's an excellent choice to help a child build confidence and see the humor in life's imperfections.