About This Book
Reach for this book when your older child is expressing deep resentment, confusion, or a sense of displacement following the arrival of a new baby. It is particularly helpful for children who use fantasy and imaginative play to process difficult emotions. The story follows Amanda, a young girl who is so overwhelmed by her new brother's constant crying and the shift in her parents' attention that she convinces herself he is a goblin changeling. By framing sibling rivalry through the lens of a fairy tale, Lauren Mills provides a safe, metaphorical space for children to explore 'forbidden' feelings of dislike toward a sibling. It validates the child's perspective while gently guiding them toward acceptance and real connection. This chapter book is ideal for ages 7 to 10, offering a more nuanced emotional exploration than a standard picture book. It serves as a bridge for parents to talk about the 'ugly' feelings of jealousy without shame.
