Shark Teeth by Sherri Winston is a powerful middle-grade novel that tackles family resilience and self-discovery through the eyes of twelve-year-old Sharkita “Kita” Hayes. Written for readers aged 9–12, this Schneider Family Honor Book follows Kita as she navigates the instability of caring for her younger siblings while her mother cycles through periods of neglect and sobriety. The story balances raw emotional weight with moments of hope as Kita joins a baton-twirling team, builds trust with supportive adults, and confronts her greatest fear: another foster care separation that could splinter her family. Winston’s portrayal of Kita’s anxiety—manifested through vivid shark metaphors during panic attacks—adds layers to her journey without overshadowing her determination to protect her siblings. Educators will find Shark Teeth particularly effective for engaging reluctant readers and English learners. Short, dialogue-driven chapters and accessible sentence structures create natural pacing, while Kita’s candid voice—marked by phrases like “sibs” and “Mama”—reflects authentic tween speech patterns. The shark motif serves dual purposes: it demystifies anxiety through tangible imagery (e.g., “jaws of panic”) and provides built-in discussion hooks for classrooms exploring figurative language. Scenes where Kita memorizes budgeting spreadsheets or practices baton routines mirror real-world problem-solving, offering relatable entry points for students grappling with responsibility or self-doubt. While the text doesn’t include illustrations, its visceral descriptions of Kita’s hyperdontia (“two rows of teeth”) and her brother’s neurodivergent traits foster empathy without relying on visuals. Recognition as a Kirkus Prize finalist and Lone Star List selection underscores its literary merit, but it’s the book’s unflinching yet age-appropriate handling of tough topics—parental neglect, community support—that makes it a standout for libraries aiming to reflect diverse lived experiences. Teachers can leverage Kita’s journey to spark conversations about trust, advocacy, and finding light in dark places, all within a narrative structure that rewards perseverance without overwhelming developing readers.