The Explosionist

Reach for this book when your teenager begins to question the grand narratives of history or feels overwhelmed by the 'alternative facts' and political manipulations of the modern world. It is an ideal pick for a young reader who finds comfort in logic and science but is starting to realize that adult authorities often hide the truth behind layers of bureaucracy and tradition. Set in an alternative 1930s where the supernatural and the scientific are dangerously intertwined, the story follows Sophie Hunter as she investigates a series of bombings. The narrative explores deep themes of skepticism, the ethics of invention, and the bravery required to trust one's own observations over official propaganda. While the world-building is complex, the emotional core focuses on a young woman finding her footing in a world that feels increasingly unstable. It is a sophisticated choice for older middle schoolers and high schoolers who enjoy intellectual mysteries.