About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is feeling the sting of comparison or the pressure to have the newest, flashiest gear. It speaks directly to the embarrassment kids feel when their family's choices, like a hand-me-down bike, don't match the 'cool' standard of their peers. This story follows Arthur and his friends as they investigate the mysterious disappearance of Francine's clunky bicycle, only to discover that the 'theft' was actually a cover-up born of social shame. Ideal for children ages 6 to 9, this early chapter book uses a familiar cast of characters to explore the weight of a 'white lie' and the relief of being honest with friends. It serves as an excellent opening for conversations about socioeconomic differences, the value of second-hand items, and why we sometimes feel the need to hide the truth to fit in. Parents will appreciate how it models a supportive friend group that values people over their possessions.
