Finding Family is a heartwarming middle-grade adventure that blends the timeless charm of classic animal tales with the humor, heart, and cinematic flair of a Pixar movie. Equal parts thrilling and tender, it invites young readers-and the adults who share stories with them-on a journey that celebrates courage, friendship, and the surprising ways families are formed.
The story follows Biscuit, a small squirrel with a big heart, whose ordinary life takes a sudden turn when he's swept away into the unknown. Lost in a midnight forest where every rustle feels like danger, Biscuit collides with Rye-a quick-witted, independent hare (absolutely not a rabbit) with a satchel full of odd treasures and a knack for finding trouble. What begins as a rocky partnership quickly becomes an unlikely bond as the two navigate gardens, caves, and moonlit ravines. Their greatest test comes in the form of Eddie, a menacing black bear who rules the forest with the help of his mischievous raccoon henchmen, the Terror Twins. To survive, Biscuit and Rye must combine hare-brained ingenuity with squirrel-sized bravery, discovering that sometimes family is the friend who refuses to leave your side.
Beyond its adventurous plot, Finding Family is a layered story with universal appeal. It tackles themes of loneliness, loss, and forgiveness, but always with a light touch and a sense of wonder. Biscuit represents the longing to belong; Rye embodies resilience and humor in the face of pain. Together, they show young readers that bravery can be learned, hope can be found in the darkest places, and family is often chosen rather than inherited.
The book's style is fast-paced, cinematic, and full of read-aloud magic. Children will delight in slapstick humor, playful banter, and dramatic escapes, while adults will appreciate the deeper emotional beats, teachable moments, and echoes of beloved classics. With natural cliffhangers and distinct character voices, it's an ideal pick for family story time, classrooms, and libraries alike.
Key Selling Points
• Blends humor, adventure, and heart in a style reminiscent of The Tale of Despereaux and The Wind in the Willows
• Universal themes of belonging, bravery, and found family make it perfect for schools, libraries, and faith-based readers
• Strong read-aloud qualities with memorable character voices and cliffhanger chapter pacing
• Broad audience appeal: kids will laugh and cheer, while parents and educators will value the emotional depth and lessons
• Author brings lived experience as a father of four and longtime foster parent, grounding the story in authentic themes of family and resilience
Audience: Middle-grade readers ages 7–12, families who enjoy reading aloud, educators, and faith-inspired markets
