Skyward

Reach for this book if your teenager is struggling with the weight of a family reputation or feels like an outsider due to circumstances beyond their control. It is an ideal choice for a child who feels they have to work twice as hard as others to prove their worth or for those who hide their sensitivity behind a tough, aggressive exterior. The story follows Spensa, a girl living in a besieged colony on the planet Detritus. Because her father was branded a coward during a space battle, Spensa is shunned by society. Despite the odds, she fights for a spot in flight school to prove her father was framed and to protect her people from alien invaders. Along the way, she discovers a sentient, sarcastic ancient starship that challenges her views on war and bravery. While the setting is a high-octane science fiction adventure, the heart of the book is about identity and the courage to define oneself. It deals with themes of institutional bullying, the ethics of war, and the heavy emotional toll of grief. It is perfectly suited for readers aged 12 and up who enjoy fast-paced action but also need a story about resilience and finding one's own voice.