The Wings of Mercury

Reach for this book when your child is facing a daunting challenge or feels overwhelmed by a group project. It is a perfect choice for the young tinkerer who prefers building things to talking about feelings, as it uses the high stakes of a space mission to model how logic and emotion must work together. The story follows a group of students participating in a prestigious space competition that quickly turns into a real world survival scenario. As the characters navigate mechanical failures and interpersonal friction, the narrative reinforces that no one person has all the answers. It is ideal for ages 8 to 12, particularly those who gravitate toward STEM but need a gentle nudge toward social-emotional growth. Parents will appreciate how the book celebrates technical intelligence while emphasizing that bravery is often just the willingness to ask for help.