Riley Reynolds Takes Care of Business

Reach for this book when your child is begging for a pet but has not yet grasped the daily labor of animal care. Riley Reynolds is a nonbinary fourth grader who dreams of having a dog, but quickly realizes that being a 'business owner' of a pet involves more than just playtime. It is an ideal pick for teaching responsibility and the reality of chores in a gentle, relatable way. Through Riley's journey, children learn that hard work leads to a deep sense of accomplishment. The story is developmentally appropriate for ages 6 to 9, offering a mirrors-and-windows experience by featuring a nonbinary protagonist whose identity is a natural, normalized part of their life. You will appreciate how it models open communication with parents and the value of a job well done.