Sam Vole and His Brothers

Reach for this book when your child is pushing for independence but becomes overwhelmed when they actually achieve it. It is perfect for the middle child who feels crowded by siblings or the preschooler who insists on doing everything all by myself but still needs the safety net of a parent's lap. The story follows Sam Vole, who is tired of his many brothers always being in his space. When he finally finds a spot all to himself in the meadow, he discovers that being alone feels much bigger and lonelier than he expected. It is a gentle, reassuring look at the balance between needing personal space and valuing the security of family. This book helps normalize the common childhood frustration of feeling smothered by family while reinforcing that home is always a safe place to return to.