The Theft of Sunlight

Reach for this book when your teen is grappling with feelings of being overlooked or is seeking a protagonist who manages a physical disability with grit and intellectual sharp-wittedness. Rae, a young woman with a clubfoot, is thrust from her quiet life into a dangerous royal court to investigate the disappearance of children. As she navigates political intrigue and her own insecurities, she discovers that her perceived weaknesses are actually her greatest strengths in a world of corruption. It is an empowering choice for parents looking to foster self-confidence and a sense of justice in their teenagers. The story handles complex themes of human trafficking and systemic inequality with grace, making it a sophisticated read for the high school set. You might choose it to spark conversations about advocacy, resilience, and the importance of standing up for those who cannot speak for themselves.