The Smoke in Albert's Garden

Reach for this book when your child starts noticing the eccentricities of the adults around them or begins to realize that grown ups often hide their own vulnerabilities. It is a perfect choice for the observant child who enjoys peeling back the layers of a neighborhood mystery while exploring the quiet power of music and gardening. The story follows Hattie and her brother as they investigate the suspicious behavior of their neighbor, Albert, whose garden seems to hold more secrets than just plants. Through this lighthearted mystery, the book explores themes of empathy, the importance of not judging by appearances, and the unexpected friendships that can form between different generations. It is a gentle, sophisticated read for the middle grade transition that validates a child's intuition and encourages kindness toward the misunderstood.