Crave

Reach for this book when your teenager is processing a major life transition, such as a move or the loss of a parent, and finds solace in high-stakes escapism. Grace is sent to a remote boarding school in Alaska after her parents die in a car accident, only to discover she is the only human in a school of supernatural beings. The story uses the vampire trope to explore themes of profound grief, the feeling of being an outsider, and the intensity of first love. While the plot is fast paced and entertaining, it provides a safe space for teens to navigate the 'monster' of their own emotions. Parents should be aware that the book contains intense romantic tension and some violence, making it best suited for high school students. It is a modern choice for a reader who feels different or lonely and needs to see a protagonist find strength in her vulnerability.