Rowan Hood: Outlaw Girl of Sherwood Forest

A parent would reach for this book when their child is navigating a significant life transition, particularly the loss of a mother or a yearning to connect with an absent father. It is a gentle yet adventurous entry point for children who feel like they do not quite fit into traditional social boxes or are struggling with their own identity. The story follows thirteen-year-old Rosemary as she transforms into Rowan, venturing into the wild to find her famous father, Robin Hood. This reimagining of a classic legend focuses heavily on the emotional journey of finding home and building a chosen family. While it contains the action one expects from Sherwood Forest, the heart of the book is about Rowan learning to trust others and herself. It is developmentally perfect for middle schoolers (ages 9 to 13) who are beginning to assert their independence and define who they are outside of their parents' shadows.