Touching Snow

A parent might reach for this book when their teen is struggling with feeling like an outsider, whether due to a move, a new school, or their cultural identity. It's a powerful story for any young person trying to find their footing when the world feels cold and unfamiliar. The book follows Karina, a Haitian-American teenager whose family abruptly moves from Port-au-Prince to a small, snowy town in Vermont. Grappling with culture shock, racism, and a strained relationship with her emotionally distant mother, Karina must navigate a new life while trying to uncover a painful family secret. This novel is best suited for readers ages 13 and up, as it directly addresses themes of trauma, racism, and complex family dynamics. It provides a mirror for teens feeling displaced and serves as a window for others to build empathy, opening crucial conversations about identity, resilience, and finding warmth where you least expect it.