This is the book for the kid who spends hours on AO3, has strong opinions about their favorite webcomics, and feels like their online creative community gets them better than their IRL friends do.
Zappia nails the tension between digital and physical identity in a way that feels authentic to teens who've grown up online. The mental health rep is the real deal—not a quirky personality trait but a serious struggle that affects everything. The parent suicide element is heavy and might be a dealbreaker for some families, but it's handled with care.
The format is genuinely innovative and makes you feel like you're experiencing Eliza's dual life firsthand. The romance is a bonus—sweet without being the whole point. This isn't a beach read; it's an emotionally complex story that asks real questions about creativity, identity, and what happens when your two worlds collide.
If your teen is into creator culture, struggles with anxiety, or just wants to see themselves reflected in a story about making art and finding connection, this delivers. Just make sure they're ready for the emotional weight.






