Breathing

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is starting to date for the first time while navigating the complexities of a chronic health condition or an overprotective household. It serves as a gentle bridge for families to discuss the transition from being a protected child to an independent young adult who must manage their own physical and emotional well-being. Set in the humid landscape of the South, the story follows Savannah as she falls for Jackson and simultaneously learns to manage her severe asthma. The book explores themes of resilience, the tension between safety and freedom, and the importance of finding one's voice. It is appropriate for middle and high schoolers, offering a realistic but hopeful look at how first love can provide the support needed to step into one's own power.