Tiger Lily

Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with the bittersweet transition into adulthood or the specific pain of a first heartbreak where they feel overlooked. This is not the whimsical Peter Pan you remember from childhood. Instead, it is a lyrical and often somber reimagining told from the perspective of Tiger Lily, a fierce, silent girl who falls in love with the boy who will never grow up. It explores the complexities of indigenous identity, the danger of being an outsider, and the inevitable loss of innocence. Parents might choose this for a mature teen who appreciates atmospheric, character-driven stories. It provides a safe space to discuss how relationships change us and why growing up often feels like losing a piece of magic. It is best suited for older teens due to its darker tone and mature themes including jealousy, violence, and the harsh realities of tribal and colonial dynamics.