The Boy Next Door

A parent might reach for this book when their child is learning to trust their own instincts, especially when adults or peers are dismissive. It's a perfect pick for a child who feels like no one is listening to their valid concerns. The story follows Julie, who is immediately suspicious of her handsome and charming new neighbor, David. While her friends and family think she's just jealous, Julie notices strange, unsettling things about him and believes he's dangerous. This 90s-era YA thriller is a fast-paced, spooky mystery that explores themes of fear, intuition, and the frustration of being gaslit. It’s a great entry point into the suspense genre for tweens, offering chills without excessive gore or mature themes.