Someone I Wanted to Be

Reach for this book when your teen is struggling with the weight of social comparison or seems to be hiding behind a curated, 'perfect' version of themselves online. This honest story follows Leah, a girl who feels invisible because of her weight and financial status, leading her to assume a false identity to connect with an older man. It dives deep into themes of body image, the ethics of digital deception, and the intense desire to be someone else when your own life feels lacking. Parents will appreciate the way it addresses the root causes of 'catfishing' through a lens of empathy rather than just judgment. It is best suited for older teens (14 plus) due to its mature exploration of self worth and complex social choices.