The Seventh Wish

Reach for this book when your family is grappling with a loved one's substance use disorder or when your child is feeling the heavy weight of a secret they cannot fix. The story follows twelve year old Charlie, who discovers a magical, wish granting fish while ice fishing. While her initial wishes are for small things like dance success, the stakes skyrocket when she discovers her older sister is addicted to heroin. This novel masterfully bridges the gap between childhood wonder and the harsh realities of the opioid crisis, offering a lifeline of empathy for middle grade readers. It is an essential choice for parents looking to validate a child's feelings of helplessness, shame, and love in the face of family illness. Messner handles the subject with profound grace, ensuring the magic never trivializes the very real struggle of addiction.