About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is facing a major life transition, such as moving to a new home or starting a new school, and is struggling to articulate their anxiety. While the rest of the Peachey family is caught up in the excitement of Pa Peachey's new job, young Betty is quietly overwhelmed by the loss of her familiar surroundings and the daunting prospect of making new friends. The story offers a gentle, humorous look at how change affects each family member differently, emphasizing that it is okay to feel reluctant when everyone else seems happy. Through the eyes of McTavish, the family's remarkably perceptive rescue dog, children learn that while change is inevitable, they have the internal resilience and external support to navigate it. It is an ideal bridge for children ages 7 to 10 who are ready for short chapters but still need a comforting, character-driven narrative to help process big emotions.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with the emotional upheaval of moving and the fear of social isolation. The approach is realistic and secular, focusing on the internal psychological state of a child. The resolution is hopeful, showing Betty successfully navigating her first day and realizing that home is about the people (and pets) rather than the building.
