The Friend I Had to Forgive Braver Me™ Collection Book

Forgiveness isn’t simple. And it definitely isn’t easy. But sometimes, it’s the bravest thing a kid can do.Fifth-grader Mark never expected his closest friend to betray his trust. One rumor. One moment. One hurtful decision — and everything changed. Now the two avoid each other in the halls, sit far apart in class, and pretend their friendship never mattered.But Mark can’t shake the heavy feeling inside him.He’s angry. He’s disappointed. He’s confused.And part of him still misses the friend he used to have.When a missing wristband forces them into an unexpected partnership, old memories resurface — along with the truth neither of them wanted to face. With help from his uncle, a surprising journal assignment, and one extremely honest conversation, Mark begins learning what forgiveness really means:Not forgetting.Not pretending.Not excusing the hurt.Forgiveness is choosing to heal — even when the past still stings.Readers ages 8–12 will learn:• What forgiveness actually is (and isn’t)• How to deal with betrayal and hurt feelings• How misunderstandings can lead to conflict• How to talk through uncomfortable emotions• Why forgiving someone strengthens their own emotional health• How friendships can change — and still growPerfect for classrooms, counseling, family reading, and young readers navigating friendship challenges, The Friend I Had to Forgive offers kids a gentle, realistic, hopeful path through conflict and emotional healing.Because growing up means learning to mend what’s been broken — starting with your own heart.