Vanishing Acts

Reach for this book when your child is standing on the threshold of middle school and feels caught between wanting to fit in and staying true to their old self. It is a perfect choice for the student who feels the shift in social hierarchies and needs a gentle reminder that their voice and observations matter. The story follows Maggie Brooklyn, a girl who navigates the complexities of sixth grade while solving a local mystery involving missing dogs. Through the lens of a neighborhood mystery, the book explores themes of loyalty, the changing nature of childhood friendships, and the courage required to stand up for what is right. It is a lighthearted yet grounded read that mirrors the real-world anxieties of eleven year olds. Parents will appreciate how it validates the awkwardness of early adolescence while maintaining a sense of fun and justice. It is entirely age-appropriate for the upper elementary and early middle school transition.