Eddy, Eddy

A parent might reach for this book when their thoughtful, introspective teen is grappling with past grief or feels like an outsider struggling to connect. "Eddy, Eddy" is a compassionate and beautifully written story about a neurodivergent teen orphan living a quiet, ordered life with his uncle in post-earthquake New Zealand. His world is gently turned upside down by the arrival of a stray dog and an enigmatic new girl, forcing him to confront his past and navigate the complexities of friendship and identity. It's an ideal choice for older teens (15+) who appreciate nuanced, character-driven literary fiction. The novel offers a hopeful and realistic look at healing, self-acceptance, and the courage it takes to build new relationships.