Books Like Reaching Dustin
Families who loved Reaching Dustin by Vicki Grove often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Reaching Dustin by Vicki Grove often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child starts making snap judgments about 'the weird kid' or seems influenced by school-yard rumors. It is an essential tool for parents who want to foster deep empathy and help their child understand that every person carries a hidden story. The story follows fifth-grader Carly as she is assigned a class project with Dustin, a boy from a troubled family who is constantly teased and ostracized. As Carly digs deeper, she discovers the heavy burden of poverty, family trauma, and the crushing weight of a bad reputation that Dustin has to carry every day. It deals sensitively with themes of social isolation and economic hardship. This is a powerful choice for children ages 9 to 12 who are navigating the complex social hierarchies of middle school and learning the difference between pity and true connection.
