About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is facing the introduction of a new step-parent or expressed fear about a 'wicked' newcomer based on fairy tale tropes. It is a comforting tool for children who are projecting anxiety onto a blended family transition and need a gentle bridge between their imagination and reality. Hessie arrives at her father's house for the summer prepared for a battle against a mean, ugly stepmother. Instead, she finds Molly, a woman who loves gardening, swimming, and being kind. The story explores the internal shift from suspicion to trust, making it an excellent choice for children aged 4 to 8 who are navigating change. It validates a child's initial defensiveness while modeling how to let those guards down when met with genuine affection.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with the transition into a blended family. The approach is realistic and secular, focusing on interpersonal dynamics rather than the logistics of divorce. The resolution is hopeful and grounded, emphasizing that new relationships take time and shared experiences to build.
