When We Were Lost

Reach for this book when your teenager is struggling with self-doubt or feels like they do not fit the traditional mold of a leader. It is a powerful choice for the adolescent who prefers to stay in the background but may need to realize their own hidden strengths. While the plot centers on a harrowing plane crash in the jungle, the heart of the story is about the transition from being a passive observer to taking responsibility for oneself and others. The narrative explores heavy themes of resilience, trauma, and the complex social hierarchies of high school. Given the intense survival situations and character deaths, it is best suited for mature readers aged 14 and up. Parents will appreciate how it moves beyond a simple adventure to examine how crisis reveals true character, providing a bridge to discuss personal ethics and the weight of making difficult choices under pressure.