About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is navigating the disorientation of a major life transition, such as moving to a new city, or when they are experiencing the all-consuming intensity of a first serious relationship. This contemporary retelling of the Tristan and Iseult legend follows Izzy, an aspiring doctor, and Tristan, a brilliant chess prodigy, as they navigate the complex social hierarchies and tensions of Brooklyn. The story explores themes of family loyalty, the pressure to succeed, and the difficulty of maintaining one's identity when falling in love for the first time. It is a sophisticated, emotionally resonant choice for older teens who enjoy realistic fiction with a high-stakes, lyrical feel. Parents will appreciate how it validates the depth of teenage emotions while examining the external pressures of race, class, and neighborhood safety.
