The Parker Inheritance

Reach for this book when your child starts asking complex questions about fairness, history, or why certain stories in your community seem hidden away. It is an ideal choice for a middle-grader who enjoys solving puzzles but is also ready to grapple with the reality of how systemic racism shaped the past and continues to influence the present. The story follows Candice and Brandon as they uncover a decades-old mystery involving a hidden inheritance and a wrongful expulsion in a small South Carolina town. While the book is a high-stakes mystery, its true heart lies in the exploration of African American history and the bravery required to seek the truth. It balances a fun, Westing Game style treasure hunt with a serious, thoughtful examination of Jim Crow era injustices and modern day bullying. It is perfectly appropriate for ages 8 to 13, offering a sophisticated look at identity and justice that encourages young readers to look closer at the world around them.