Caring is Creepy

A parent might reach for this book when they are concerned about an adolescent who feels isolated, is spending excessive time in unsupervised digital spaces, or seems to be seeking validation from strangers online. It is a cautionary tale that addresses the heavy realities of loneliness and the deceptive nature of digital intimacy. The story follows fifteen-year-old Lynn, who lives in a rural town and finds herself caught in a dangerous web after connecting with a man online who is not who he claims to be. This gritty, realistic novel explores themes of grooming, trust, and the desperate need for connection. Due to its intense subject matter, including drug use and sexual situations, it is best suited for older teens (ages 15 and up). Parents can use this book as a high-impact conversation starter about digital safety, personal boundaries, and the psychological tactics used by predators.