Nine Days

Reach for this book when your teen is beginning to grapple with global politics, social injustice, or the unsettling feeling of a parent's absence. This gripping thriller follows two teens, Ti-Anna and Ethan, as they navigate the dangerous streets of Hong Kong to find Ti-Anna's missing father, a prominent democracy activist. It is a story that bridges the gap between personal family loyalty and the larger, often frightening fight for human rights. While the plot moves at a breakneck pace, the emotional core focuses on courage and the realization that the world isn't always fair. It is an excellent choice for mature middle schoolers or high schoolers who enjoy mysteries but are also ready to discuss real-world issues like government overreach and the cost of standing up for one's beliefs. It offers a realistic look at the dangers of activism without losing its sense of hope and friendship.