What the Heart Knows

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the weight of an unspoken apology, the sting of being left out, or the quiet ache of a major life transition. Unlike a traditional story, this is a collection of chants, blessings, and spells designed to give language to complex feelings that children often struggle to name. It serves as a gentle emotional toolkit for those moments when life feels overwhelming or unfair. Through lush, surreal illustrations and poignant verse, Joyce Sidman explores themes of forgiveness, resilience, and the necessity of both solitude and connection. It is an ideal choice for middle schoolers and teens who are moving away from simple explanations of 'right and wrong' and into the nuanced reality of human relationships. This book validates their inner world while offering a steadying hand through the darkness.