About This Book
Reach for River Secrets when your child feels like they are the least talented member of their friend group or when they struggle with the weight of being the funny one to hide their insecurities. This story follows Razo, a young soldier who believes he was only chosen for an elite mission because of his past, not his current skill. As he travels to a foreign land, Razo must navigate feelings of inadequacy and the physical danger of a series of mysterious crimes. It is a wonderful choice for kids who feel overlooked, teaching them that being a keen observer is just as valuable as being the strongest or fastest. While set in a high-fantasy world with magic and political intrigue, the heart of the book is a deeply relatable journey of self-discovery. Parents will appreciate how it handles themes of impostor syndrome and the importance of finding one's unique contribution to a team. The story contains some fantasy violence and descriptions of burned bodies, making it most suitable for mature middle-grade readers who enjoy a mix of mystery and adventure.
