The Pistachio Prescription

A parent would reach for this book when their child is feeling caught in the crossfire of frequent family arguments or struggling with the pressure of being compared to a seemingly perfect sibling. It speaks directly to the experience of a young teen trying to carve out an identity while managing the physical and emotional toll of a high-stress home environment. Cassie Stephens is a relatable protagonist who uses humor and a specific ritual (eating pistachios) to cope with her asthma and her parents' constant bickering. This classic coming-of-age story explores self-worth, the complexities of family loyalty, and the courage it takes to lead when your personal life feels like it is falling apart. It is a compassionate choice for middle schoolers needing to see their own domestic anxieties reflected with honesty and wit.