Cate of the Lost Colony

Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with the fallout of a public social exile or feels like they have lost their standing within their peer group. It is an ideal choice for a young person who needs to see that a mistake or a change in fortune does not define their future, but can instead be the catalyst for discovering a deeper, more authentic version of themselves. The story follows Cate, a lady-in-waiting to Queen Elizabeth I, who is banished from court after a forbidden romance and sent to the struggling Roanoke Colony in the New World. While the setting is historical, the emotional core is modern and relatable, focusing on the heavy burden of shame and the resilience required to build a life from scratch. It navigates themes of survival, independence, and the courage to find belonging in an unfamiliar place. Parents will appreciate the sophisticated look at Elizabethan history and the nuanced portrayal of indigenous cultures, making it a thoughtful read for teenagers aged 12 and up who are ready for a story about personal reinvention.