Ellen Foster

A parent should reach for this book when their teenager is exploring themes of resilience, seeking to understand the complexities of family trauma, or navigating their own journey toward independence. Ellen Foster is a powerful, first-person narrative about a young girl who survives a neglectful and abusive household through sheer force of will and a sharp, observational wit. It is a story about the transition from the family you are born into to the family you choose for yourself. While the subject matter is heavy, dealing with alcoholism and loss, the tone is grounded in Ellen's pragmatic voice. It is most appropriate for mature middle schoolers and high school students who can handle realistic depictions of hardship. Parents might choose this as a bridge to discuss social justice, the foster care system, or the internal strength required to break cycles of generational trauma.