Forget Me Not

Willa is spending her summer on Cape Cod, working for her mother's wedding planning business. While she navigates her blossoming relationship with JFK Kennelly, she faces increasing friction with her best friend, Tina, and a demanding bride who seems impossible to satisfy. The introduction of a stray dog becomes the catalyst for Willa to slow down, practice empathy, and address the jealousy and neglect that have strained her closest relationships. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book deals with social dynamics and romantic interest in a very secular, direct, and age-appropriate way. There are no heavy traumas, making it a safe choice for sensitive readers. The resolution is realistic and hopeful, focusing on communication and making amends. EMOTIONAL ARC: The story starts with the breezy excitement of summer and a new crush, moves into a middle section of social tension and the 'weight' of responsibility, and concludes with a warm, heart-centered resolution focused on loyalty. IDEAL READER: A 10-year-old girl who is starting to feel 'older' but still values the comfort of family and pets. It is especially suited for a child who has recently felt left out by a friend or who is feeling the pressure of trying to do too much at once. PARENT TRIGGER: A parent might choose this after seeing their child prioritize a new friend or crush over a long-term best friend, or noticing their child becoming overwhelmed by perfectionism. PARENT PREP: No specific previews needed. The book is very wholesome and can be read cold. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger readers (8-9) will focus on the dog and the 'grown up' excitement of the wedding planning. Older readers (11-12) will resonate more deeply with the nuance of the jealousy between Willa and Tina. DIFFERENTIATOR: Unlike many 'first crush' books that focus solely on the romance, this one uses the romance as a backdrop to examine the integrity of female friendship and the grounding power of animal companionship.