Amelia Westlake Was Never Here

A parent might reach for this book when their teen is feeling cynical about social structures and frustrated by injustice, especially within their own school. It's a perfect story for a young person who feels like an outsider and is trying to find their voice. The book follows two very different girls, rule-follower Harriet and rebellious Will, at an elite private school. They secretly team up to create a fake student, Amelia Westlake, to pull off elaborate pranks that expose the school's sexism and corruption. Along the way, they form an unlikely alliance that blossoms into a sweet romance. This novel smartly blends humor, mystery, and a heartfelt LGBTQ+ romance, making serious topics like activism and institutional inequality feel accessible and engaging. It's a story about the power of finding a partner in protest, discovering your own identity apart from expectations, and learning that you can make a difference. It's an empowering and fun read for teens grappling with how to challenge the status quo.