About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to find their place after a major life change, such as moving to a dense urban environment or starting a new school where they feel like the odd one out. The story follows eleven-year-old Nickel, a sensitive boy who prefers his camera lens and animal companions to typical social circles. When his mother moves them into a mysterious apartment building called The Beastly Arms, Nickel discovers a world where being different is not just accepted but celebrated in a magical, transformative way. It is a gentle yet quirky mystery that addresses the loneliness of transition. Parents will appreciate how the story validates a child's need for autonomy and their unique way of seeing the world through art. The tone is whimsical and slightly surreal, making it a perfect fit for middle-grade readers who enjoy a touch of urban fantasy without heavy intensity.
