The Wild Things

Reach for this book when your pre-teen is struggling with the messy, explosive transition between childhood and adolescence. This novelization of the classic picture book explores the inner life of Max, an eight-year-old dealing with his father's absence, his sister's distance, and his own volatile anger. Unlike the original, this version delves deeply into the psychology of 'wildness,' showing how monsters can represent our own difficult emotions. It is a sophisticated, beautiful, and sometimes sorrowful look at a boy learning to navigate a world that no longer feels small or safe. It is perfect for children aged 10 to 14 who are beginning to experience complex social and family dynamics.