The Shadow Lines is a heavy hitter. It’s the kind of book that stays with you long after you finish it, mostly because it refuses to give easy answers about why people hate each other over lines drawn in the dirt.

For a teenager who likes history or wants to understand the roots of modern South Asia, it’s essential reading. But be warned: it’s a slow burn. It doesn't have the 'hook' of a modern YA thriller, so it requires some patience. If they can stick with it, the payoff is a much bigger worldview.