When the World Was Still Young

Reach for this book when your child starts asking big questions about why people think the way they do or when they feel like an outsider because of their intellectual interests. It provides a rare, accessible window into the childhood of Friedrich Nietzsche, long before he became a world-renowned philosopher. By focusing on his early years, the narrative humanizes a complex figure, showing how his youthful curiosity, family dynamics, and early struggles with health shaped his revolutionary ideas. This biography is particularly helpful for middle schoolers navigating their own identities. It explores themes of intellectual loneliness and the courage it takes to see the world differently. While the subject matter is sophisticated, the storytelling is grounded in the relatable experiences of school life and family expectations. It is an excellent choice for fostering a growth mindset and encouraging children to value their unique perspectives, even when they do not fit the traditional mold.