Wizard at Work

Reach for this book when your child expresses frustration with their own abilities or feels they are less capable than their peers. It is an ideal choice for the child who is prone to overthinking their limitations or who believes they need an external 'fix' to be smart or worthy. Vivian Vande Velde offers a whimsical take on the classic Scarecrow, focusing on his transition from a simple field guardian to a leader who realizes his intelligence was there all along. The story follows the Scarecrow's adventures as he navigates the Land of Oz, discovering that wisdom is less about academic facts and more about kindness, creative problem-solving, and knowing when to ask for help. It is a gentle, humorous exploration of self-confidence that normalizes feelings of inadequacy while celebrating the joy of being oneself. Parents will appreciate how the book balances lighthearted fantasy with a deeper message about the internal nature of true intelligence.