Linger

A parent should reach for this book when their teenager is navigating the messy, confusing transition between childhood and adulthood or struggling with an identity that feels out of sync with their family's expectations. This atmospheric sequel to Shiver explores the ache of holding onto oneself while the surrounding world undergoes a profound transformation. It is a story about the weight of secrets, the fear of losing what defines us, and the bravery required to choose one's own future. While framed as a paranormal romance, the core of the story focuses on emotional themes of belonging, the complexity of first love, and the friction between adolescents and their parents. It is most appropriate for readers aged fourteen and up due to its mature, lyrical tone and themes of self-harm and neglect. Parents will appreciate the book's sophisticated prose and its honest look at how young people process change and trauma.