Goldenborn 

Fantasy novels offer teens a way to explore real-world issues through symbolic worlds, and Goldenborn does this beautifully. The story follows 17-year-old Akoma Addo as she encounters ancient gods and modern magic, forcing her to confront loyalty, sacrifice, and belief systems that shape her choices.

The book supports creative thinking and imagination, encouraging readers to engage with symbolic storytelling and explore ethical complexity. Teens learn that characters, like people, are shaped by background, choice, and consequence.

Moral reasoning arises as Akoma must decide between personal desires and larger responsibilities. Navigating these dilemmas helps teens think through their own values and priorities.

Leadership and confidence are also key themes. Watched characters grow into roles where they advocate for others and face challenges with courage. These narrative arcs model resilience and assertiveness.

Parents can encourage teens to reflect on questions such as:
• What choice would you make in Akoma’s place?
• How do beliefs and values shape decisions?
• What does leadership look like in everyday life?

With its rich mythology and relatable emotional core, Goldenborn offers both adventure and personal reflection — making it a standout YA release for 2026.

Ruchira Darda

I am Ruchira Darda, a relationship coach, parenting expert, author, and entrepreneur with over 16 years of experience. Based in Mumbai, I work extensively in the areas of mindful living and emotional wellness. I am a TEDx speaker and focus on personality identification to help individuals and families build stronger, healthier relationships. I also lead and actively support initiatives such as the Lokmat MahaMarathon.