Gone, Gone, Gone

Reach for this book when your teenager is feeling overwhelmed by the news cycle or a sense of general anxiety about the safety of the world. It is a deeply resonant choice for teens who feel like 'outsiders' or who are processing private grief while the rest of the world seems to be moving on. Set against the backdrop of the 2002 D.C. sniper attacks, the story follows Craig and Lio as they navigate a blossoming romance in a climate of fear. This is a quiet, atmospheric novel that validates the intense, sometimes messy emotions of adolescence. It handles heavy themes like the loss of a sibling and collective trauma with grace, making it a powerful tool for opening conversations about mental health and resilience. While the external threats are real, the focus remains on the healing power of connection and finding safety in another person.