Hopepunk

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is struggling with the intersection of faith, family loyalty, and identity, or when they are feeling powerless against social injustices. It is a powerful resource for families navigating the pain of religious-based rejection or those looking for a way to channel anger into creative, positive activism. The story follows Hope, who joins a rock band to find her sister after she flees their conservative home to avoid conversion therapy. While it addresses heavy themes of LGBTQ+ rights and fundamentalism, it is ultimately a story of resilience and finding one's chosen family. This is an ideal pick for older teens who value authenticity and are ready to engage with complex moral dilemmas through a lens of radical optimism and music.