Missing Clarissa

High school juniors Blair and Cameron launch a podcast to solve the 1999 disappearance of Clarissa Campbell. Their investigation uncovers a web of small-town secrets involving Clarissa's boyfriend and an art teacher. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book deals directly with grooming, predatory behavior by adults, and cold-case murder. The approach is realistic and gritty, reflecting modern true-crime sensibilities. While the investigation provides answers, the resolution is bittersweet and focuses on the systemic failures that allowed the crime to happen. EMOTIONAL ARC: The story begins with high-energy curiosity and amateur sleuthing, but it gradually shifts into a heavier, more somber atmosphere as the dark reality of Clarissa's life is revealed. It builds tension steadily toward a sobering conclusion. IDEAL READER: A 16-year-old who listens to investigative podcasts and is starting to recognize that the adults in their community are flawed or even dangerous. PARENT TRIGGER: A parent might reach for this after hearing their child discuss a sensationalized true-crime documentary or noticing their child's growing skepticism toward local authority figures. PARENT PREP: Parents should be aware of the depictions of statutory rape and grooming (specifically the relationship between Clarissa and the art teacher). It is helpful to discuss these power dynamics before the teen finishes the book. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger teens (14) will focus on the 'whodunnit' mystery and the podcasting aspect. Older teens (17-18) will likely pick up on the social commentary regarding how society treats 'missing pretty girls' versus other victims. DIFFERENTIATOR: Unlike many YA thrillers that focus on the 'mean girl' trope, this book focuses on the tragedy of the victim's reality and the ethical responsibility of the storytellers.