A parent might reach for this book when their teenager is feeling lost, struggling with big emotions after a move or a change, or questioning where they belong. Sun Chasers tells the story of a quiet teen who, feeling adrift in a new town, befriends an adventurous classmate. Together they embark on a spontaneous road trip to chase the sun, a journey that becomes a powerful metaphor for their search for identity, connection, and a place to call home. The book beautifully explores themes of loneliness, self-confidence, and the strength found in friendship. It's a thoughtful, character-driven novel for ages 13 and up that validates the confusing feelings of growing up and offers a hopeful message about finding your own light.
The story deals directly with themes of identity, including gender identity and sexuality, as is common in Callender's work. It also explores mental health topics like loneliness and social anxiety. The approach is secular and deeply empathetic. The resolution is not a magical fix but is fundamentally hopeful, emphasizing that self-acceptance is an ongoing process, not a final destination.
Ideal Reader
A teen, 14-17, who is introspective and feels like an outsider. This book is for the reader grappling with questions about their identity (be it gender, sexuality, or just their place in the universe) who prefers lyrical prose and deep character studies over fast-paced plots. Perfect for a teen who just moved or feels their friend group is changing.
Parent Prep
This book can be read cold, but parents should be prepared for it to open conversations about gender identity, pronouns, and mental health. The best preparation is to be ready to listen without judgment. The themes are handled with great care, providing a perfect entry point for discussion if a teen is open to it. The parent has noticed their teen becoming more withdrawn, quiet, or expressing feelings of not fitting in. The teen might have said, "No one understands me," or seems to be struggling to connect with peers after a life change.
Age Experience
A younger teen (13-14) will likely connect most with the friendship story and the adventure of the road trip. An older teen (15-18) will more fully appreciate the nuanced exploration of identity, the lyrical prose, and the metaphorical depth of the journey as a search for self.
What Makes It Special
While many books cover themes of finding oneself, Sun Chasers stands out due to Kacen Callender's signature lyrical writing style that makes the natural world a character in itself. The central 'adventure' is softer and more metaphorical than in typical adventure novels, focusing on the internal landscape of the characters with a gentle, affirming touch that is unique to their work.
Read plot summary
Following a family move, a withdrawn teenager feels more isolated than ever. They meet a charismatic, impulsive peer who proposes they go on a quest to chase the setting sun across the state. This literal journey runs parallel to their internal emotional journey, as they navigate their growing friendship, confront their insecurities, and begin to figure out who they are and where they fit in the world. The adventure is secondary to the deep, introspective character development.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
What do you think the characters were truly searching for when they decided to 'chase the sun'? What did the sun represent to each of them on their journey?
2
The main character is very hesitant to go on the trip at first. What specific moment or feeling do you think finally pushed them to say yes? Was it an act of courage or desperation?
3
The friendship between the two main characters is central to the story. In what ways did they challenge each other, and how did that friction help them grow?
4
The ending doesn't provide all the answers for the characters' futures. Why do you think the author chose to end the story this way? Does a hopeful, uncertain ending feel more realistic to you?
