Foiled

Reach for this book when your middle schooler feels like they are living on the periphery of their social world, or when they are struggling to bridge the gap between their secret passions and their public identity. It is an ideal choice for the child who finds solace in a niche hobby but feels invisible in the crowded halls of school. The story follows Aliera, a dedicated fencer who views life through the protective mesh of her mask. When a handsome new boy enters her life, her world shifts from a grounded high school drama into a vibrant urban fantasy. Through the lens of fencer's discipline, the book explores themes of self-reliance, the courage required to let others in, and the realization that one's perceived 'weirdness' might actually be a superpower. It is a visually engaging way to discuss social anxiety and the hidden depths we all carry.