
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with a boundary crosser, whether it is a friend who takes toys without asking or a sibling who does not respect personal space. Set in the vibrant and spooky world of In-Between, the story follows Skeletina as she confronts a Tooth Fairy who has grown greedy and overbearing. It provides a perfect opening to discuss what it means to say no and stand up for yourself when someone makes you feel uncomfortable, even if that person seems powerful or important. While the setting is filled with ghosts and monsters, the tone is whimsical rather than frightening, making it a safe space for children ages 4 to 8 to explore complex feelings about fairness and justice. Susie Jaramillo uses her signature Latin American inspired aesthetic to celebrate heritage while teaching a vital lesson: your feelings and your 'no' matter. It is an excellent choice for kids losing their first teeth or those who need a boost of self-confidence in social situations.
Spooky character designs like skeletons and ghosts are presented in a friendly, colorful way.
The book uses a metaphorical approach to consent and boundaries. It handles the concept of entitlement and 'bullying' by an authority figure in a way that feels empowering and hopeful.
A 6-year-old who is losing their first teeth and would benefit from seeing that standing up for oneself does not make you a 'bad' person.
The illustrations are busy and detailed, so parents should be prepared to linger on pages to let the child take in the world of In-Between. A parent might see their child being pushed around on the playground or notice their child is afraid to say no to an adult or older peer.
Younger children (4-5) will focus on the cool monsters and the 'silly' greedy fairy. Older children (7-8) will more clearly grasp the nuances of the boundary-setting dialogue and the power dynamics at play.
Unlike most tooth fairy books which focus on the magic of the gift, this uses the folklore as a vehicle for a modern lesson on consent and personal agency, all wrapped in a rich Day of the Dead aesthetic. ```
Skeletina lives in the world of In-Between, a place where monsters and ghosts coexist. When the Tooth Fairy arrives, she is not the sweet visitor everyone expects. Instead, she is demanding, greedy, and taking more than just teeth. Skeletina must find her voice, set firm boundaries, and restore fairness to her community.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review