Meet the Austins
Recommended. Age: 10+. A Catholic review of this book for parents.
Our review
A loving family opens its home to a hurting, difficult child and keeps loving her when she is hard to love. The Austins pray at meals and bedtime, a wise grandfather guides them, and Vicky learns to look past her own feelings. The honest reservation is that some readers find it dated and a little sweet, and Maggy's night terrors get brushed aside.
For parents
Read aloud from 8, independent reading from 10. It opens with a death, so prepare a young child. Ask why the Austins keep Maggy when she makes trouble. Ask what Vicky learns about her own selfishness, and how our family could welcome someone who is hurting (Matthew 25:35).