About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is beginning to experience the bittersweet transitions of growing up, especially the responsibility of caring for a pet and the eventual necessity of letting go. This classic memoir captures a year in the life of eleven-year-old Sterling and his mischievous raccoon, Rascal, set against the backdrop of a small Wisconsin town during World War I. It is an ideal choice for families navigating themes of independence, the quiet grief of losing a parent, and the bond between a child and the natural world. While the story is filled with humorous escapades involving pie-eating contests and bicycle rides, it also provides a gentle space to discuss more complex emotions. Sterling's relationship with his dreamer father and his worry for a brother at war offer a grounded, realistic look at family life in a changing era. Parents will appreciate the book's ability to normalize feelings of loneliness and the healing power of animal companionship, making it a comforting read for children aged 8 to 14 who are finding their place in a widening world.
