The Dollar Kids

Reach for this book when your child is burdened by a deep sense of responsibility for a past mistake or is struggling to move forward after a loss. It is a powerful resource for families navigating major life transitions like moving to a new town or facing financial instability. The story follows Lowen, a boy who feels responsible for a tragic shooting in his old neighborhood, as his family moves to Millville for a fresh start in a house that costs only one dollar. Through Lowen's passion for drawing comics, the book explores the heavy weight of guilt and the slow, messy process of forgiveness. It is ideally suited for middle schoolers (ages 10-14) who are beginning to understand that healing isn't about forgetting, but about finding a way to integrate the past into a hopeful future. Parents will appreciate how it validates complex emotions like grief and shame while celebrating the resilience found in community and creative expression.