The Summer I Ate the Rich

Skylar, a teen focused on helping her family survive financial hardship, takes a summer job serving the ultra-wealthy at a secluded, high-end location. However, the 'eat the rich' sentiment becomes literal when she discovers the elite guests are hiding a monstrous, cannibalistic secret. Skylar must navigate the social hierarchy and physical danger to expose the truth and survive. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book deals directly with classism, food insecurity, and wealth disparity. The horror elements act as a metaphorical extension of how the elite 'consume' the labor and lives of the working class. The approach is secular and the resolution is empowering but realistic regarding systemic challenges. EMOTIONAL ARC: The story begins with a sense of isolation and financial desperation. It builds into a high-stakes, suspenseful thriller where Skylar moves from a place of fear to one of active resistance and bravery. IDEAL READER: A high schooler who feels the weight of economic pressure and enjoys sharp social satire mixed with 'creature feature' horror. This is for the teen who loved the movie Get Out or the book White Smoke. PARENT TRIGGER: A parent might choose this after hearing their child express resentment about classmates' lifestyles or seeing their child struggle with the pressure of high-stakes internships or summer jobs. PARENT PREP: Parents should be aware of the graphic horror elements and gore, which are central to the 'monster' plot. Previewing the scenes where the true nature of the wealthy guests is revealed would be wise. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger teens (14) will focus on the survival and mystery aspects, while older teens (17-18) will likely pick up on the nuanced critiques of capitalism and systemic exploitation. DIFFERENTIATOR: It masterfully blends the 'slasher' genre with a very modern, Gen Z perspective on economic justice, making the abstract concept of 'exploitation' terrifyingly literal.