The Isle of the Lost

Reach for this book when your child is feeling the weight of reputation or struggling with the idea that they must become exactly who their parents expect them to be. While set in a vibrant fantasy world, this story is fundamentally about the messy process of identity formation and the bravery required to choose one's own path. It follows the teenage children of Disney's most famous villains as they navigate a school year on an island where being bad is the only way to survive. Through the perspectives of Mal, Evie, Jay, and Carlos, the book explores how friendship can provide a safe haven when home life feels conditional or demanding. It is a perfect choice for middle schoolers who enjoy fast paced adventure but are also beginning to question social hierarchies and the labels others place upon them.