The Most Dazzling Girl in Berlin

A parent might reach for this book when their teenager is exploring their own identity and needs a story about finding one's chosen family in a world that feels increasingly divided. Set in the vibrant but vanishing world of the Weimar Republic, the story follows Hilde as she leaves an orphanage for Berlin. She finds work and belonging in a queer cabaret, discovering a community of artists and dreamers just as the Nazi party begins its terrifying ascent to power. This verse novel beautifully balances the joy of self-discovery with the sobering realities of historical change. It is an excellent choice for mature teens interested in LGBTQ+ history, social justice, and the importance of standing up for one's community. While it deals with heavy political themes and the threat of violence, it emphasizes the resilience of the human spirit and the power of finding a place where you truly belong.