The Last Graduate

Reach for this book when your teenager is feeling the pressure of high-stakes academic environments or is struggling to balance their individual goals with the needs of the group. It is a powerful tool for discussing the difference between surviving alone and thriving together. The story centers on El, a girl destined for dark magic who chooses to be a hero instead. Through her journey, the book explores themes of systemic injustice, the ethics of privilege, and the radical act of choosing kindness in a world that rewards selfishness. Appropriate for ages 14 and up, this sequel to A Deadly Education deepens the emotional stakes as characters face their final year in a school that literally tries to kill them. Parents will appreciate how the narrative deconstructs the 'chosen one' trope, emphasizing that true power comes from building community and protecting those who are often overlooked. It is an excellent choice for fostering resilience and a sense of social responsibility in older teens.