Sunny

Parents should reach for this book when their child is struggling to find their own identity under the shadow of a parent's heavy expectations or a legacy they did not choose. Sunny is a deeply moving story about a boy who has spent his life running track because his father wants him to, even though he carries the silent burden of knowing his mother died giving birth to him. It is an excellent choice for navigating complex grief, family tension, and the courage it takes to pursue a new passion like dance or sound-weaving when others expect you to stay in your lane. The book is written in a unique, rhythmic diary format that makes it accessible and emotionally resonant for middle schoolers.