About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is facing a major life transition, such as moving to a new city or adjusting to a parent's high-pressure promotion. While set in 1901, the story addresses the timeless anxiety of being 'the new kid' under the microscope of public expectation. Ethel Roosevelt must leave her beloved home for the fishbowl of the White House, balancing the thrill of her father's presidency with the lonely reality of being a middle child in a chaotic, famous family. Kimberly Brubaker Bradley masterfully explores themes of responsibility and belonging. It is an ideal choice for 8 to 12 year olds who enjoy historical detail but need a story grounded in relatable family dynamics. Parents will appreciate how the book models resilience and the importance of maintaining one's identity even when family circumstances shift dramatically. It offers a gentle but honest look at how children navigate the heavy mantle of 'duty' alongside the simple desire to fit in.
