The Year the Swallows Came Early

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with a profound disappointment caused by a trusted adult, particularly regarding broken promises or family instability. Eleven-year-old Groovy Robinson is devastated to discover her father has gambled away her inheritance, leading to his arrest and a fractured home life. As she navigates her anger and the complex process of forgiveness, she finds solace in her passion for cooking and the annual arrival of the swallows in San Juan Capistrano. This moving story is ideal for children ages 8 to 12 who are learning that parents are fallible humans. It offers a realistic yet hopeful roadmap for building self-reliance and finding one's own path forward after a betrayal. It is a gentle but honest exploration of how to love someone while acknowledging their mistakes.