The Stranger Next Door

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the isolation of a recent move or feels like an outsider in their new neighborhood. It is particularly effective for children who tend to be hyper-vigilant or suspicious of others when they are feeling lonely. The story follows Alex, a boy who feels disconnected after moving to a new development, and his cat, Pete, who provides a unique perspective on the mystery next door. While the plot centers on a series of neighborhood fires and a suspicious new neighbor named Rocky, the heart of the book explores the difficulty of making friends and the dangers of making snap judgments. Peg Kehret expertly balances a fast-paced mystery with the very real emotional weight of childhood loneliness. It is a safe, engaging choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy animal characters and realistic suspense.