Secret Under My Skin, The

Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with questions of identity, feeling like an outsider, or beginning to notice systemic injustices in the world. It is a sophisticated story for teens who feel 'hidden' or silenced by their circumstances. The narrative follows Blay, a young woman who must navigate a post-environmental-collapse society where knowledge is a dangerous commodity and her own past is a mystery. Through Blay's journey from a dehumanizing work camp to a position of responsibility, the book explores themes of self-worth, the importance of historical memory, and the courage required to claim one's own name. It is ideal for readers aged 12 to 17 who enjoy high-stakes science fiction but are also looking for a deeply personal, emotional resonance. Parents will appreciate the way it models intellectual curiosity and resilience in the face of a cold, bureaucratic world.