The Secret Keeper

A parent might reach for this book when their child seems to be carrying the weight of a secret, either their own or a friend's. It's a powerful tool for sensitive, empathetic children who tend to absorb the worries of others. The story follows Kalli, a girl with the special gift of being a Secret Keeper for her village. People unburden themselves to her, but soon the weight of all their secrets becomes a physical and emotional load that isolates her. The book gently explores how being a good friend doesn't mean you have to carry their burdens alone. Through its beautiful fairy-tale narrative, the story addresses complex themes like anxiety, empathy, and the importance of emotional boundaries and self-care. For ages 6 to 9, it provides a safe, metaphorical language for talking about heavy feelings and validates the need to find healthy outlets, showing that it is possible to let go of worries without betraying a trust.