Glass

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is facing the devastating reality of addiction, whether personally or within their immediate family circle. It is a raw and unflinching look at the cyclic nature of substance abuse and the high stakes of trying to balance recovery with the demands of young parenthood. Written in compelling free verse, the story follows Kristina as she struggles to reclaim her life from the monster of crystal meth while caring for her infant son. It explores deep themes of shame, the fracturing of family trust, and the terrifying loss of self control. While the publisher notes this as middle grade, the content is strictly for older teens due to its graphic and honest depiction of drug use and adult situations. A parent might choose this book to open a non judgmental dialogue about the systemic nature of addiction and the importance of professional intervention over the myth of willpower. It provides a mirror for those feeling isolated by family secrets and a window for those seeking to understand the psychological grip of dependency.