The Incident on the Bridge

Reach for this book when your teenager is feeling invisible, misunderstood, or weighed down by the pressure to perform a version of themselves that does not feel real. Laura McNeal explores the disappearance of Thisbe Locke, a girl who vanished from a bridge, through a multi-perspective mystery that delves deep into the interior lives of modern teens. It is a poignant choice for parents of children navigating the heavy waters of social isolation, family secrets, and the search for a genuine identity. While the central hook is a disappearance, the heart of the story is about the quiet struggles of growing up and the masks we wear. It is best suited for mature teens (14+) who appreciate realistic, lyrical prose and are ready to discuss complex themes of mental health and social dynamics.