Seek

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is struggling with the quiet, persistent ache of an absent father or is trying to define their own identity apart from their family history. It is a deeply resonant choice for children in single-parent or multigenerational households who are curious about their origins. The story follows Rob, a high school senior who uses his love for radio and sound to hunt for the voice of the father who abandoned him before he was born. It handles themes of longing, forgiveness, and self-discovery with a realistic and sophisticated touch. While the search for a lost parent can be emotionally heavy, the book is ultimately empowering, showing how a young person can build a full life and a solid sense of self even when pieces of the puzzle are missing. It is perfectly suited for ages 12 and up.