As we all remember, this can be a very difficult age. Not only does the preteen body begin to change, preteens also start to feel the pressure of fitting in and being popular. Interrupting their familiar routine and separating them from a stable group of friends, combined with their lack of control over the situation, can cause anger, frustration and depression.
So, moving with preteens offers a different challenge then moving with younger children. To help them cope, go out and buy them a journal or diary and encourage them to write down their feelings and experiences. Then check out the books listed below, where your preteen will find characters dealing with issues they can relate to.
- Anastasia Again: Twelve-year-old Anastasia is horrified at her family's decision to move from their city apartment to a house in the suburbs.
- Hey, New Kid!: Cody's father is an F.B.I. agent, he's got a pet emu, and he's an ace on Rollerblades. At least, that's what Cody tells his class on the first day at his new school. Being Super Deluxe Cody is great, until someone throws a skating party. And suddenly, the game may be up!
- The Kid in the Red Jacket: When ten-year-old Howard has to move with his family to a distant state, he is forced to live on a street named Chester Pewe, adjust to a new school, and get used to being shadowed by the little girl in a nearby house.
- The Cricket in Times Square: The adventures of a country cricket who unintentionally arrives in New York and is befriended by Tucker Mouse and Harry Cat.
- Ashleigh #9: Holiday Homecoming: Ashleigh is a fourteen year-old girl who loves horses, her farm and everything about her life; that is, until her favorite filly is sold and her best friend is moving to California. How will Ashleigh cope with losing those she loves?
