Recommended Reading
Nest by Esther Ehrlich
If you enjoy sadder stories, this one could reach your heart! The story revolves around 11 year old Naomi, nicknamed Chirp, who is an expert on books and loves nature. Unfortunately, her mom got involved in an accident which caused her to develop depression. This impacts Chirp, adding to her own emotions and relationships. She ends up making a new friend and they go on a life-changing adventure.
The Science of Breakable Things by Tae Keller
By using science, Natalie attempts to help her mother who has depression and can’t get out of bed. She clings onto a local egg drop competition so she can earn money to help her botanist mother. This book helps show the struggle when a child has a parent who suffers from mental health issues, along with the difficulties any other 7th grader faces, including friends and academics.
The Seventh Most Important Thing by Shelley Pearsall
After Arthur’s father passes, Arthur throws a brick at a local trash picker, also known as the “Junk Man” in rage. The judge gives him 120 hours of community service rather than time in juice and Arthur is told to find the Junk Man’s list of the Seven Most Important things.
Superpowered: Transform Anxiety into Courage, Confidence, and Resilience by Renee Jain and Dr. Shefali Tsabary
This nonfiction book is a helpful guide for kids that deal with stress and anxiety. It is filled with scenarios that show how to deal with everyday situations in a healthy social and emotional way.
Fighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Della, age 10, and Suki, age 16 have faced some of the hardest hardships. When their mother, who had a meth addiction, was arrested, Suki was the one taking care of Della. While they do have a house from Clifton, their mom’s boyfriend, the cost of it was a horrible price extracted from Suki. This was kept a secret, but when lines are crossed with Della herself, the two run and are put into foster care.
Content Warning: Sexual Assault, Drug Abuse, Suicide.