The Forest of Hands and Teeth

Reach for this book when your teen is grappling with the feeling of being trapped by societal expectations or is beginning to question the 'absolute truths' handed down by authority figures. It is a powerful metaphor for the transition into adulthood, where the safety of home begins to feel like a cage and the desire for independence outweighs the fear of the unknown. The story follows Mary, a girl living in a village surrounded by a fence that protects them from the Unconsecrated, mindless creatures roaming the forest. As she uncovers the secrets of the religious Sisterhood that governs her life, she must decide if the dream of a world beyond the fence is worth the terrifying risks of seeking it. Parents will find this a visceral starting point for talking about blind obedience, the weight of grief, and the courage it takes to pursue a life of one's own making. It is a dark, atmospheric horror novel that is best suited for older teens comfortable with intense suspense and heavy emotional themes.