Peeps

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is navigating the isolating feeling of being a carrier of a secret, whether that is a medical diagnosis, a social stigma, or a mistake from their past that they cannot undo. It speaks to the heavy burden of responsibility and the shame that comes with hurting others unintentionally. The story centers on Cal, a young man who carries a parasite that turns those he loves into ravening vampires while he remains a healthy carrier. While the book is a high stakes supernatural thriller, its emotional core is about the loss of innocence and the difficult transition into adulthood. It uses a gritty, biological lens to look at the consequences of our actions and the way we deal with guilt. Parents should be aware that the book contains mature themes regarding dating and biology, but it is ultimately a sophisticated exploration of ethics and scientific wonder for older teens who prefer realism over glittery fantasy.