Socks, Shocks and Secrets

Reach for this book when your child feels like a 'round peg in a square hole' or is struggling with the restrictive social codes of a new environment. Set in a 1914 English boarding school, this diary-style story follows Bathsheba Clarice de Beaumont as she navigates the rigid expectations of being a 'young lady' while harboring a secret past and a penchant for trouble. It speaks beautifully to the need for authentic self-expression and the courage it takes to find true friends when you feel like an outsider. Parents will appreciate the clever humor and the way it introduces historical social structures without feeling dry. It is an excellent choice for 9 to 12 year olds who are beginning to question social hierarchies and the importance of integrity over appearances. The story balances lighthearted mischief with poignant moments of loneliness, making it a comforting read for any child who feels a bit different.