Learning to Breathe

A parent might reach for this book when their teenager is navigating the heavy aftermath of personal violation, unplanned pregnancy, or a profound loss of bodily autonomy. It is a vital resource for supporting a young person who feels silenced by family secrets or trapped by circumstances beyond their control. The story follows sixteen year old Indy, who lives in the Bahamas and is forced to confront the reality of a pregnancy resulting from an assault by her cousin. Through a yoga retreat and the support of a new community, Indy begins to reclaim her voice and her body. This is a deeply emotional, realistic novel that deals with mature themes of reproductive rights, sexual violence, and systemic family dysfunction. It is best suited for older teens (14+) due to its graphic subject matter, offering a powerful blueprint for how movement and community can lead to healing and self-advocacy.