Enemies

Reach for this book when your child feels like they can never measure up to a sibling or struggles with the 'quitter' label. It is an ideal choice for the middle schooler who feels overlooked or lacks the follow-through to finish their creative projects. The story follows Felicity, a relatable young artist living in the shadow of her 'perfect' older sister, Letty. To prove her worth, Felicity enters a high-stakes contest that puts her friendships to the test and forces her to confront her own insecurities. This graphic novel masterfully explores themes of sibling rivalry, the pressure of competition, and the nuances of social exclusion. It is a gentle yet honest look at how envy can distort our view of others. Parents will appreciate how it validates the frustration of being the 'unfocused' child while modeling the growth mindset needed to see a difficult task through to the end.