Finally, you need a book that’s so addictive it turns your kid into a zombie who ignores all screens. That book is Wonder by R.J. Palacio. It’s about Auggie, a boy with a facial difference starting fifth grade. I’m warning you: your child will laugh, sob, and then insist that your entire family watch the movie adaptation immediately. It’s basically empathy in print form—and it’s been translated into 50 languages because everywhere, kids need to hear the message: "Choose kind." Plus, there’s a surprising fact: the author was inspired by her own son crying in an ice cream shop after a little girl screamed at him. Yeah, it’s real life, and it’s a masterpiece.
So there you have it. Go forth to your local library or bookstore, buy all these books, and prepare to hear nothing but the sound of focused breathing and the occasional snort-laugh from the couch. You’re welcome. And if your daughter ends up writing her own book in six months? Don’t blame me. Blame the excellent reading choices you just made.
