The Thickety

Reach for this book when your child feels like they are being unfairly judged or when they are struggling to reconcile their family history with their own identity. This atmospheric fantasy follows Kara, a girl living in a village that fears magic, as she discovers a forbidden grimoire that belonged to her executed mother. Through Kara's journey, the story explores the weight of grief, the bond between siblings, and the courage it takes to stand up against mob mentality. It is a darker, more sophisticated middle-grade read that addresses the complexities of power and morality. While it contains some eerie imagery, it provides a powerful framework for discussing why people fear what they do not understand and how to find strength in one's unique abilities.