A Summer of Dragonflies by Natasha Deen

A cross-country road trip becomes the ultimate test of courage for a painfully shy teenager in this heartfelt coming-of-age adventure. When Gupta "Guppie" Persaud's family trades Calgary for New York City via a sweltering three-week journey in a van without air conditioning or cell service, she's forced to confront her "terminal shyness" head-on. This young adult novel captures the unique tension of being trapped between childhood and independence while physically trapped in a moving vehicle with one's entire family. The dragonfly motif emerges as a powerful symbol of transformation as Guppie navigates unfamiliar landscapes and the even more unfamiliar territory of finding her voice.

What sets this family story apart is its authentic portrayal of adolescent anxiety without ever losing its sense of adventure. Guppie's journey resonates with any teen who's ever felt overshadowed by their own fears, while the cross-country backdrop provides constant momentum and discovery. Parents will appreciate the novel's emphasis on resilience and the nuanced family dynamics that feel both specific and universal. For readers facing their own transitions—whether moving homes, starting new schools, or simply growing up—this fantasy-free but magical transformation story offers both comfort and inspiration, proving that sometimes the bravest adventures happen between point A and point B.