Free Radicals

When a teen is grappling with a difficult family history and feels overshadowed by it, this book provides a compelling narrative of self-discovery. Free Radicals follows Mafi, a high school junior reeling from her mother's death. She uncovers that her estranged, Nobel-laureate grandfather may have been a Nazi collaborator. To uncover the truth, she attempts to recreate his mysterious, reality-bending physics experiment. The story navigates complex themes of grief, identity, and moral responsibility, making it best for older teens (14+). It’s a fantastic choice for a young reader interested in science and history, who is also figuring out how to define themselves outside of their family's shadow.