Chicken Stu

Reach for this book when your child feels like they are not tough enough or when they are struggling to keep up with more adventurous peers. It is the perfect antidote for the 'sensitive' child who feels out of place in high energy or competitive environments. Stu is a self described city weakling who is thrust into a rough and tumble farm holiday with his daredevil cousins, facing everything from aggressive farm animals to his own paralyzing anxiety. Through laugh out loud humor and relatable mishaps, the story explores themes of bravery, self acceptance, and the realization that courage looks different for everyone. It is a fantastic choice for middle grade readers who enjoy slapstick comedy but need a gentle nudge toward building resilience. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's fears while showing that they are capable of more than they think, all without being preachy or overly serious.