
Reach for this book when your child is facing a major life transition, such as moving house or changing schools, and is struggling with the fear of losing their hard won sense of belonging. It is especially helpful for children who feel their voices are being lost in family decisions made by adults. The story follows Abbie as she uses her creativity and entrepreneurial spirit to save her family's natural beauty business and their new life in the countryside. Through Abbie's journey, the book explores themes of resilience, sibling teamwork, and the importance of advocating for one's own happiness. It is perfectly pitched for the 9 to 12 age range, blending lighthearted fun with the genuine emotional weight of feeling uprooted. Parents will appreciate how it models healthy problem solving and creative expression as tools for managing anxiety about change.
Feelings of sadness and anxiety regarding leaving friends and a beloved home.
The book deals with the stress of relocation and the feeling of powerlessness children often experience during family transitions. The approach is secular and realistic, focusing on emotional intelligence and communication. The resolution is hopeful and empowering for the young protagonist.
A 10-year-old girl who loves DIY projects, spa culture, and stories about sisterhood, but who is also currently navigating the 'new kid' phase or facing a potential move that feels beyond her control.
No specific scenes require pre-screening. The book is a gentle, supportive read that can be enjoyed cold. A parent might see their child becoming withdrawn or unusually argumentative after news of a big change (moving, school shift, or even a change in family routine).
Younger readers (8-9) will focus on the 'lotions and potions' and the fun of the beauty parlour. Older readers (11-12) will resonate more deeply with Abbie's desire for autonomy and the social dynamics of maintaining friendships across distances.
Unlike many 'moving' books that focus on arriving in a new place, this one focuses on the fight to stay in a place that finally feels like home, highlighting the child's role as a stakeholder in family success.
Abbie and her family have finally settled into their idyllic life in Devon, running Rainbow Beauty, a pamper parlour featuring Abbie's homemade lotions. When a rival spa opens and a celebrity endorsement suddenly makes their London prospects skyrocket, Abbie's mother decides they should move back to the city. Abbie and her sisters must collaborate to prove that their business and their family thrive best in their new rural home.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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