Kidnapping Mr Tubbs

Reach for this book when your teenager is beginning to confront the reality of aging and mortality in a beloved grandparent or mentor. It is a poignant tool for navigating the 'sandwich' of adolescent independence and the duty of care we owe to those who came before us. The story follows sixteen-year-old Kevin and his friend AJ as they 'kidnap' a frail, elderly veteran from a nursing home to grant him one final wish: a visit to the ranch where he spent his youth. While the premise feels like a high-stakes adventure, the heart of the book is a deeply moving exploration of dignity, empathy, and the bittersweet process of saying goodbye. It provides a safe space for teens to process the sadness of physical decline while celebrating the enduring spirit of the elderly. It is a realistic, respectful look at the end of life that models how young people can advocate for the agency of their elders.