Kate's Special Secret

Reach for this book when you notice your child is confused or frustrated by a friend's sudden moodiness or secretive behavior. This story centers on Ellie, a student at the Royal Ballet School, who discovers that her friend Kate is hiding a serious family financial crisis. It provides a gentle framework for discussing how shame and pride can sometimes look like unfriendliness, and how true friendship requires both empathy and discretion. This chapter book is ideal for ages 8 to 12. It serves as a helpful tool for parents wanting to normalize conversations about socioeconomic differences and the importance of supporting peers who may be going through invisible hardships at home. By modeling Ellie's thoughtful approach, the book encourages children to look beneath the surface of their friends' actions.