Mixed Signals

Reach for this book when your child feels like they are being treated as a 'second parent' to their siblings or is struggling to balance family expectations with their own growing interests. Mixed Bag explores the tension between a middle-schooler's desire for independence and the cultural or familial pressures to be a primary caregiver at home. It is a relatable and compassionate look at the 'eldest daughter' or 'big sister' experience. Sara, a seventh-grader, loves her after-school activities, but her parents expect her to maintain a heavy load of childcare for her younger siblings. As she fights for the freedom to chase her own dreams, she must navigate the guilt of saying 'no' to her family while finding the courage to speak her truth. This graphic novel is ideal for ages 8 to 12, offering a mirror for children in similar positions and a window for parents to see the emotional weight of shared household responsibilities.