In Search of Us

Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with the complexities of a multiracial identity or asking deep questions about family history that you might not be ready to answer. It is a powerful tool for a child who feels a piece of their personal puzzle is missing, especially those in single parent homes where a father's history is a mystery. The story follows seventeen year old Angie on a cross country journey to find her biological father, while a parallel narrative follows her mother, Marilyn, as a teenager in the 1990s. Through these dual timelines, the book explores themes of first love, systemic racism, and the ripple effects of secrets. It is emotionally resonant and sophisticated, making it ideal for older teens who enjoy realistic fiction that doesnt shy away from the messy realities of grief and belonging. You might choose this to open a dialogue about your own family's heritage or to support a teen who is navigating the unique challenges of being biracial in America.