Across the Nightingale Floor

Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with questions of identity, heritage, or the feeling of being an outsider in their own world. It is a sophisticated coming of age story that follows Takeo, a boy born into a pacifist religious community who is suddenly thrust into a world of samurai, assassins, and political intrigue. As Takeo discovers hidden talents and a complex lineage, he must choose between the peaceful values of his upbringing and the violent requirements of his new life. This is an excellent choice for mature teens who appreciate rich world building and are ready to explore the nuances of loyalty, the consequences of revenge, and the intensity of first love. It provides a profound look at how we reconcile our private selves with the public roles we are forced to play.