The Gift-Giver

Reach for this book when your child is starting to feel the heavy weight of social expectations and needs to see the quiet strength found in individuality. It is particularly helpful for children who feel they must choose between being 'cool' and being kind, or for those struggling with the boundaries set by protective parents. Set in a 1970s Bronx neighborhood, the story follows Doris as she navigates fifth grade and meets Amir, a new boy who doesn't care about fitting in. Through their friendship, Doris learns to value her own perspective and understand the complexities of the world around her. This is a grounded, realistic story about the transition from childhood play to the more complicated social dynamics of the pre-teen years. It celebrates the 'gift' of presence and the courage it takes to stand still when everyone else is running to follow the crowd.