Beastly Beauty

Reach for this book when your teenager is struggling with self-acceptance or feels like their own perceived flaws make them unlovable. This reimagining of the Beauty and the Beast tale focuses on the internal struggle of Princess Arabella, who must contend with a curse that turns her into a literal monster. It is an ideal choice for adolescents navigating the messy transitions of puberty, body image issues, or the fear that their 'darker' emotions make them 'beastly.' Jennifer Donnelly explores deep themes of shame, guilt, and the courage required to stand up for one's own identity against societal expectations. While it features the magic and romance expected of a fairy tale, the emotional core is firmly rooted in the modern teenage experience of finding power in one's differences. It is most appropriate for readers aged 12 and up who enjoy atmospheric, character-driven fantasy with a strong message of self-redemption.