The Mealworm Diaries

Reach for this book when your child is navigating the silent, heavy weight of grief or struggling to find their footing in a new, unfamiliar social environment. Following a tragic accident that upends his world, Jeremy moves to a new city where he must balance the pain of his past with the immediate pressures of middle school science projects and lunchroom politics. The story provides a grounded look at how loss can make a child feel isolated even in a crowded classroom. Appropriate for ages 9 to 12, the narrative explores the unexpected intersections of science and friendship. It gently illustrates how empathy can grow in unlikely places, such as when Jeremy is paired with Aaron, the class outcast. Parents will value this book for its realistic portrayal of a boy trying to find his voice again without rushing the healing process. It serves as a beautiful conversation starter for discussing how we treat others who are different and how we carry our private sorrows into public spaces.