Waifs and Strays

Reach for this collection when your teenager feels like an outsider or is struggling to find their voice in a world that seems harsh and uninviting. This anthology of short stories blends gritty urban settings with ancient folklore, focusing on young people who discover that being different is actually their greatest strength. It deals with the complexities of identity and the courage required to be kind when life is difficult. While the book contains elements of urban fantasy and magic, it is grounded in the emotional reality of the adolescent experience. Parents will appreciate how it validates the feeling of being a waif or a stray while offering a hopeful path toward belonging. It is best suited for mature middle schoolers and high schoolers who enjoy atmospheric storytelling and complex characters.