Jumpstart the World

Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with feelings of isolation or is beginning to question the prejudices they have inherited from their environment. It is an essential resource for parents of teens who are navigating the transition to independence or who need to develop a deeper, more nuanced empathy for the LGBTQ+ community. The story follows fifteen-year-old Elle as she moves into her own apartment and forms an unexpected bond with her neighbor, Frank. As Elle discovers that Frank is a transgender man, she is forced to confront her own biases and the cruelty of those around her. The book handles themes of identity, loneliness, and social justice with a realistic touch that resonates with the 14 to 18 age group. It is an excellent choice for fostering open conversations about gender identity and the courage required to stand up for others, even when it is socially difficult.