Gooseberry

Reach for this book if your child is navigating a period of transition, questioning their identity, or struggling to find where they fit in. It is a deeply compassionate choice for young readers who feel like they are 'in-between' or who have experienced the complexities of the foster care system. The story follows B, a nonbinary middle schooler who has moved through many foster homes and is now staying with a supportive queer couple while trying to find the perfect name for themselves. Through B's journey of adopting and training an anxious rescue dog named Gooseberry, the novel explores themes of patience, chosen family, and self-acceptance. Written in beautiful, accessible verse, it provides a gentle mirror for LGBTQ+ youth and a window into the life of a child in the foster system. It is ideal for ages 9 to 12, offering a hopeful resolution that emphasizes that belonging is something we build with others through trust and time.