The Wanderer

Reach for this book when your child is processing a difficult past, experiencing feelings of not belonging, or struggling to reconcile their own memories with family stories. This evocative novel, told through alternating journal entries, follows thirteen-year-old Sophie as she joins her three uncles and two cousins on a transatlantic sailing journey. While the physical adventure involves navigating storms and the open sea, the emotional heart of the story lies in Sophie's search for her true identity and the healing of old wounds. It is an ideal choice for middle grade readers who enjoy contemplative stories about resilience and the power of storytelling. The book offers a safe space to explore grief and the complexity of family dynamics, ultimately providing a hopeful message about the strength found in facing one's fears and the support of a loving, if imperfect, family.