The Wild, Wild West

A parent would reach for this book when their child is facing a new, intimidating situation or feels like the least capable person in the room. This story follows the famously anxious Geronimo Stilton as he travels to a ranch in the American West, where he must navigate horses, cattle herding, and a showdown with a local bully. While the plot is full of slapstick humor and wild West tropes, the heart of the book is about finding courage when you feel completely out of your element. Appropriate for children ages 7 to 10, the unique visual layout with colorful fonts and expressive art helps reluctant readers stay engaged. It is an excellent choice for a child who needs to see that being a 'scaredy-mouse' doesn't mean you can't be a hero. Parents will appreciate how the book models resilience and the idea that even when we are afraid, we can still show up for our friends and do the right thing.