About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the transition to upper elementary school or experiencing the persistent hum of anxiety that makes them want to shrink into the background. It is an ideal choice for the child who feels overwhelmed by social expectations and the pressure to find their voice in a crowded classroom. The story follows fifth grader Sparrow as she navigates the complexities of changing friendships and the physiological reality of a brain that worries more than most. While the narrative addresses the weight of anxiety, it does so with a gentle, hopeful touch that normalizes the neurodivergent experience. The book is perfectly appropriate for ages 8 to 12, offering a realistic look at school life without falling into dark or heavy tropes. Parents will appreciate how it models the difference between being shy and having clinical anxiety, providing a bridge for families to discuss mental health and self advocacy through a relatable protagonist.
