The Rocking Chair Rebellion

Reach for this book when your middle schooler is beginning to question authority or expresses a desire to advocate for others but isn't sure how to start. This story follows Savvy, a teenager who finds herself unexpectedly drawn into the lives of the residents at Maple Ridge Home for the Aged. As she bonds with the elderly residents, she discovers they are being treated as if they have no agency. What begins as a simple volunteer effort turns into a full-scale revolution for independence. The Rocking Chair Rebellion is an excellent choice for navigating themes of social justice, ageism, and the power of intergenerational friendships. It balances humor with a serious look at how society treats the elderly, making it highly relatable for 10 to 14 year olds who are forming their own identities. Parents will appreciate how the book models empathy and shows that young people can be effective catalysts for change in their communities.