Break to You

Reach for this book when your teenager is feeling trapped by their own mistakes or struggling with the loneliness of being misunderstood. It is a powerful choice for families navigating the impact of the justice system or those looking to foster empathy for individuals whose voices are often silenced by society. Through the alternating perspectives of Adriana and Jonte, two teens in separate juvenile detention facilities who find connection through hidden notes, the story explores deep themes of redemption, the search for identity beyond a criminal record, and the enduring power of human connection. The verse format makes the heavy emotional weight accessible, offering a raw yet ultimately hopeful look at how we can redefine ourselves and find love in the most restrictive circumstances. It is a sophisticated read for older teens that encourages compassion over judgment.