A Quiet Kind of Thunder

Reach for this book when your teenager feels isolated by their own anxiety or feels like their voice is physically trapped within them. This sensitive novel follows Steffi, a girl with selective mutism, and Rhys, a boy who is deaf, as they navigate the complexities of first love and finding their own unique ways to communicate. It is a profound exploration of how we define ourselves beyond our labels and the courage it takes to let someone truly see us. While the story is a tender romance, it also addresses the weight of mental health struggles and the pressure to perform social normalcy. It is highly appropriate for older teens who appreciate realistic, character-driven stories about neurodivergence and disability. Parents will find it a valuable tool for normalizing conversations about anxiety and the different forms communication can take in a noisy world.