About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their child is expressing deep resentment or frustration regarding a remarriage or the introduction of step-siblings into the home. Charlie Hickle is not taking his mother's new marriage well, and his honest, often grumpy internal monologue provides a safe space for children to see their own difficult feelings mirrored without judgment. While the book is categorized as a comedy, it touches on the profound sense of loss a child feels when they realize their 'old life' is gone forever. Barbara Park uses humor to navigate the messy realities of blended families, making it an accessible read for middle-grade students (ages 8 to 12). Parents will find it a valuable tool to open up dialogue about the 'disasters' of sharing space, attention, and family identity during a period of major transition.
