About This Book
Reach for this book if your teenager is struggling with a deep sense of isolation following a major life loss or a move they did not choose. It is a haunting, metaphorical exploration of the desire to escape reality when the pain of the present becomes too heavy to bear. Josh, a sixteen-year-old reeling from his mother's death and a cross-country move, finds himself trapped in a mysterious, isolated Appalachian community of Melungeons. This hidden village offers him a peaceful refuge from his grief, but he soon realizes that safety without freedom is its own kind of prison. Through Josh's journey, the book addresses themes of grief, the seductive nature of avoidance, and the necessity of re-engaging with the world. It is a sophisticated, moody read perfect for young adults who appreciate a blend of magical realism and psychological depth. Parents will find it a powerful tool for opening conversations about how we process trauma and the difference between finding a temporary safe haven and truly moving forward.
