Mary Underwater

Reach for this book if your young teen is processing complex family dynamics, particularly the fear or uncertainty that comes with an abusive or incarcerated parent. It is a powerful choice for children who feel isolated by their home life and need to see that their worth is not defined by their parents' mistakes. Mary is a resourceful 13 year old who copes with her violent father's return from prison by channeling her energy into a bold engineering project. The story balances the heavy reality of domestic trauma with the light of a first crush and the thrill of scientific creation. It offers a hopeful roadmap for reclaiming agency and finding safety through creativity and connection. It is most appropriate for ages 12 and up due to its direct handling of domestic abuse and parental intimidation.