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Book Reviews by Teens, for Teens! |
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The Alchemist
by Paulo Coelho
Book Reviewed by Emma L.
"Santiago, a young Shephard, has decided to find a new path in life. To discover himself, after meeting with god. He has a set purpose in life that he must find to fulfill his individual purpose. He travels across the desert, to an oasis, to find an all powerful, ancient alchemist. He then finds his purpose in life, not without immense struggle. I truly believe this book can create some change in people or at least make a fascinating connection with its reader."
What made you interested in reading this book? "This book is a very popular, modern piece that is known for its powerful words, and its message about self-discovery resonating with all who read it. It was also recommended to me by quite a few people."
What does this book remind you of? "This book is unlike anything I have read, it embodies the journey of self-discovery and the trials and tribulations one might face. The book discusses god, but not in the normal religious manner, God is met with and talked about in a way of guidance, how he aids Santiago on his journey."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Honestly, I think anyone would enjoy this book. It can speak to all walks of life and touch whoever picks it up."
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Divergent
by Veronica Roth
Book Reviewed by Molly
"Divergent is a dystopian novel set in a future where society is divided into five factions, each focused on a particular value. The story follows Beatrice "Tris" Prior, who discovers she's "Divergent" which is someone who doesn't fit neatly into just one faction. The events take place in a futuristic Chicago, and Tris must navigate the challenges of choosing her faction, facing dangerous secrets, and questioning the oppressive system around her. The tone of the book is exciting and tense, with a lot of action and emotional moments. It’s definitely not dry or boring instead, it keeps you reading and you like the suspense and drama. The book is easy to understand and flows quickly, making it a fun read. It’s not a struggle to get through, and the writing style is engaging. There's no photos or illustrations but coming from someone who's kind of bad at imagining things, the imagery in this book is great. In conclusion, this book is great and I'd definitely recommend."
What does this book remind you of? "In a way, because its dystopian, it reminds me of The Hunger Games."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Dystopian fans."
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The Hunger Games
by Suzanne Collins
Book Reviewed by Peyton
"The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is the first book of a dystopian trilogy that follows a sixteen-year-old girl named Katniss Everdeen as she navigates the harsh reality of her life in Panem. For years since the war, the Capitol has forced the twelve districts to participate in a brutal televised show called the Hunger Games as a punishment for the rebellion against the Capitol years ago. Every year, a boy and a girl tribute from each district will be chosen to fight to death in an arena. Katniss and a boy named Peeta Mallark are chosen to represent District Twelve in the seventy-fourth annual Hunger Games. Throughout the novel, Collins uses Katniss to represent survival instincts and preservation of humanity despite oppression. This book kept me captivated the whole time. If it weren't for my school schedule holding me back, I believe I could've finished this book in probably two days. It is driven by suspense and kept me on my toes the whole time wondering what would happen next. The subtle love story between Katniss and Peeta made me crazy and wanting more of them throughout the book. Suzanne Collins did a wonderful job at creating a book to discuss harsh subject while having the target audience being anywhere between eleven to twenty-five. This book genuinely changed my life and I will never stop talking about it, much like the rest of THG fanbase."
What made you interested in reading this book? "During COVID my sister had introduced me to the movies and I fell in love with them. About two years later we read the first book in my English class, but I took a break from the series until about 2 months ago when I sat down and read the trilogy in full. I was very excited when Suzanne Collins announced that she was releasing Sunrise on the Reaping."
What does this book remind you of? "I've also dabbled in the Maze Runner saga and the Divergent trilogy which heavily remind me of The Hunger Games every time I rewatch them."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who has even heard of The Hunger Games but hasn't watched/read it yet. Anyone that likes dystopian novels."
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The Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsBook Reviewed by Abby Z.
"The Hunger Games, originally published in 2008 by Suzanne Collins before following with a series of other novels, is a young adult dystopian novel about a North American country requiring two tributes from each district to fight against each other to the death. The Hunger Games is one of the most popular books out there, and when my friends were talking about Sunrise on the Reaping, I, who had never read the original book before, decided to try and read it to understand what the hype was about. I enjoyed the novel, but it did seem sort of weirdly spaced out. The actual games do not start until around halfway through, and the entire novel is 27 chapters, which I found sort of weird, especially considering that that is what the majority of new THG readers are expecting. Besides that, I found that the novel was easy to understand, despite having some undertones of how our economy works very similarly compared to Panem (like the rich vs the poor/oppressed), and Collins’ writing style is very simplistic yet colorful. Overall, I think that anyone who hasn’t read The Hunger Games already should give it a try." What made you interested in reading this book? "My friends kept talking about Sunrise on the Reaping around me and persuaded me to try it since I have never read the actual original novel until recently."What does this book remind you of? "I mean there are the THG movies, but other than that, nothing really. I guess I could say The Giver by Lois Lowry because it has a similar tone of dystopian societies!"Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who enjoys dystopian, action novels, and those who enjoy fast paced fighting sequences and medium length (20ish pages usually) chapters." |
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The Hunger Games by Suzanne CollinsBook Reviewed by Mairead
"The Hunger Games follows Katniss Everdeen, a teenage girl from District 12- the poorest district in her country, Panem. She is thrown into the brutal Hunger Games competition after her sister is chosen to compete and Katniss volunteers to take her place, to save her sister's life. There are 24 tributes in the Games, and only one can make it out alive. Katniss is determined to be that one, but it will not be easy. I loved this book, it was a fairly easy read in terms of writing style and length but it still felt like it had a deeper meaning/commentary about society as a whole. Although you could hypothetically read this as a stand alone, I would also recommend reading the following two books in the trilogy (Catching Fire and Mockingjay) and the two prequels, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes and Sunrise on the Reaping."
What does this book remind you of? "It reminds me of Divergent and The Maze Runner, two other dystopian books I've read in the past!"
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who likes dystopian stories would love this book!"
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Sunrise on the Reaping
by Suzanne Collins
Book Reviewed by Ella J.
"This book is a prequel to the Hunger Games series and takes place during the 50th Hunger Games. The main character is Haymitch Abernathy and the story revolves around his experience in the second quarter quell. I really liked this book and I think that it changed my perspective a lot on the original series. It was a great, well written story that had me very engaged the whole time. I loved the connections to other characters that you see in the other Hunger Games books. It is written in first person which I really liked because we get to hear a lot of his internal dialogue. Overall it was an amazing book!"
What does this book remind you of? "I usually am not super into dystopian books so I don't read many that are similar to this one but it obviously connects to the original Hunger Games books and movies along with The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Definitely fans of The Hunger Games and really anyone who enjoys dystopian style books."
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The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes
by Suzanne Collins
Book Reviewed by Abby T.
"The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes follows young Cornelius Snow through his last year in high school in the world of Panem. We get to see inside Snow's mind as he makes decisions that shape the leader we know him to be in the later books. We watch as he connects with the Tribute he sends into arena, grappling with the idea that he's capable of despicable things. I really enjoyed this book as a previous fan of the Hunger Games series. The story through Snow's perspective made me feel torn between what I know is wrong and what I can't help but root for. Collins does a good job of fading the line between right and wrong by telling the story through Snow's mind."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reads similarly to the Hunger Games books, because they're by the same author and from the same series, but they also tie in well to the movies."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Any Hunger Games fans will adore this addition to the series!"
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The Murder of Roger Ackroyd
by Agatha Christie
Book Reviewed by Matina
"Dr. James Sheppard, the story's narrator, receives word that a neighbor has recently moved in. When a murder occurs and it is revealed that the neighbor is actually Hercule Poirot, Mr. Sheppard's sister hires him for the case. From there, the detective unravels a web of deception surrounding the victim, with his secret affairs, blackmail, and clandestine meetings coming to light. However, at the end, a shocking twist leaves you wondering about the truth and who to believe in. I adore Agatha Christie's writing and the way she never fails to present mystery in a fascinating way. The structure of her work is never the same, and that is highlighted in the tale, which subverts expectations and leaves you in awe. This story has a clever premise that develops further the more you read. Trying to uncover the mystery before it is done itself is futile, as the revelations are always unexpected."
What does this book remind you of? "The Poirot series, as that is what it is from."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys mystery.
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Lord of the Flies by William GoldingBook Reviewed by Abby Z.
"William Golding's 1954 debut novel Lord of the Flies tells a story of a group of British boys who have survived a plane crash onto an uninhabited island and attempt to govern themselves as "adults." However, this leads them to becoming savages, detailing each stage of their insanity through tensions between civility and chaos! Lots of people tend to read this novel in school, but I do feel as if its important to reread it at least once outside of an academic environment because it informs people of many important themes and morals that can apply to our own government and economy, even now. The length of the novel is questionably short, 224 pages, for being a multi-layered allegory, but I do think that this makes it even more accessible to younger readers. Golding's writing style and choice of syntax, especially with the pig portion, is very interesting and may be difficult to understand, but it ultimately does a phenomenal job of communicating a horrendous idea through the eyes of a child. Overall, Lord of the Flies has the potential to educate many individuals worldwide, especially within the US, considering the current state of our government and economy alike."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "People who enjoy gore, psychological horror, some-what dystopian novels."
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Lord of the Flies by William GoldingBook Reviewed by Matina
"When a plane carrying a bunch of schoolboys crashes to the foot of an island, nobody expects the result to be savagery and chaos. Instead, the boys agree to work together and do their best to cooperate to make their temporary stay the best as possible. They want to behave like "adults", but the result is much more disturbing. Social pyramids form and the children have to face their most inhumane instincts. These arise when facing fear, conflict, and dysfunction that the island presents. These schoolchildren struggle with immense need to hold power while acting civilized in the way their role models would. And when death occurs, all hell breaks lose. Painting themselves and sharpening sticks, a sector of the boys take to "killing a beast" that plagues them. The stakes are raised to unimaginable heights and the worst is shown about the people. By the end of the book, it is up to you to decide if the demon was something external, or their own selves. This is one of my favorite books of all time. William Golding took a worn idea and made a fantastic creation out of it. Exploring human nature at it's most shameful while being a book accessible to all is difficult. And sometimes, one might wonder if the lessons this book has to offer can still be used today. If they can, what does that say about us? Be prepared to have your jaw drop ten times during this book. I audibly said "WHATTT???" every chapter."
What does this book remind you of? "Yellowjackets is similar to Lord of The Flies, being explicitly based on the book."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone should read this book. It is a certified classic." |
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The Picture of Dorian Gray
by Oscar Wilde
Book Reviewed by Emma L.
"This book is written surrounding Mr. Dorian Gray, a higher echelon of society, engaging in dinner parties where philosophical discussion is all the rage. He has a painting commissioned of himself, and it is that artists most prized piece. He refuses to give it to Dorian, and when he does. Dorian regrets it with his entire being. This book has a very "illuminated alley" way about it, being light and dark, trash-strewn and clean, all at the same time. With blood, and love. This book is such a masterpiece of Oscar Wilde, exploring so many valuable nooks and crannies of life. I urge reader to enjoy this book, a slice of life on a shelf."
What does this book remind you of? "This book has some similar themes with The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "People who would enjoy this book would be fans of dichotomy, self exploration, infatuation, and a sudden change is story line."
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Frankenstein
by Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley
Book Reviewed by Mairead
"This book tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a scientist who manages to create a monstrous creature and bring it to life. Unfortunately, he comes to regret this decision when he sees what he's truly created. Most people are already familiar with this story in some form, but it can be very interesting to see the true origins of this famed tale. Although it may seem intimidating to read due to the fact that it's considered a "classic", I actually really enjoyed reading it! It's one of the first classics I've read, but I found it to be very digestible and overall a riveting story. I would highly recommend it!"
What does this book remind you of? "It inevitably reminds me of all the different Frankenstein adaptations/interpretations I've seen throughout my life!"
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who enjoys sci-fi or who is trying to get into the classics should definitely read this book!"
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Frankenstein by Mary Wollstonecraft ShelleyBook Reviewed by AnnaJames
"This book follows Victor Frankenstein as he searches for how to create life. Once he finds out how, it wreaks havoc on his life. Victor is a young scientist and slowly becomes unhinged as he loses his loved ones and his life is completely changed because of his creation. This book is a good classic to read because it isn't too difficult vocabulary-wise. The plot is also interesting. It has a lot of symbolism and deeper meanings. I actually enjoyed reading it more than I thought I would. The characters are complex, which adds to the plot. It had a satisfying ending and was pretty easy to read length-wise as well."
What does this book remind you of? "It reminds me of science fiction movies or shows, like X-Files, because it's the same genre."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Someone who is interested in science fiction, classics, and philosophy/moral issues."
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Brave New World
by Aldous Huxley
Book Reviewed by Emma L.
"This book was written in omniscient point of view, beginning at a factory for human reproduction. Then exploring the interworking's of life in this world. How people behave, what is acceptable. The main character meets a woman and they go on a spring break together to a place where less advanced humans live, almost like a field trip to see these creatures from a different time. They watch their sacrificial ritual and then eventually take one of these people back to their civilization. He becomes famous, again he is like a caveman is to us. The woman eventually falls in love with the 'caveman', but they have some sort of interpersonal issue. He runs away and builds a home elsewhere. He is isolated, but an issue arises. This is a big twist ending, I highly recommend, very mind boggling."
What does this book remind you of? "The premise of this book is far and few between, you could roughly compare it to "The 100", a dystopian fiction TV series, but that doesn't even cover all the bases."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Readers who enjoy a plot twist, dystopian fiction, new world, advanced technologies, alternate civilization."
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The War of the Worlds
by H. G. Wells
Book Reviewed by Emma L.
"This book was placed in the early 20th century, with a young man living live in the suburbs with his wife. Then, suddenly everything changes: war erupts, death and destruction upon everyone's doorstep. It follows the young man through his survival of the alien invasion, what he had to do to survive and what horrors he saw, and his journey to find his wife. I very much recommend this book for those who enjoy science fiction."
What made you interested in reading this book? "Sometimes books can be a 2-in-1, meaning I bought a book with both The War of the Worlds and The Time Machine included. I really enjoyed reading H.G. Wells' other book, The Time Machine, how authentic and unique it was int he time it was written. So, I figured why not read the other book as well."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of another of H.G. Wells' books, The Time Machine. Obviously, written by the same author and were published soon after another."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who would enjoy this book would be someone who likes alien invasions, advanced technology, dystopian fiction."
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The Time Machine
by HG Wells
Book Reviewed by Emma L.
"This book is told from a Victorian scientist's point of view, being the inventor of this machine. How he has a dinner with his friends but he doesn't show up. And when he does arrive, he tells them all about his journey to the future. How the world is so divided by two main creatures, those above ground and those below it. How childlike some are and then how curious the others are. He seems like a madman discussing such insane things that no other could vouch for. He then leaves in his time machine and never returns. This book was written in a very interesting way, how it was told to his friends and that is how the reader learns about the future and what the time traveler experienced. It is a very curious book with twists and turns, and desire. How the world has evolved in the future into helpless creatures and those the surface dwellers fear."
What made you interested in reading this book? "This novel is yet another valuable science fiction piece, being one of many H.G. Wells masterpieces, and I myself thoroughly enjoy all science fiction. So, why not read it."
What does this book remind you of? "You could barely compare this to "The 100" TV series, being introduced to a new world, different creatures, etc. But this piece is one of the first few about time travel, so its hard to compare when this was the original idea."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Those who would enjoy this book will be fans of aliens, dystopian fiction, minorly thrillers."
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Anne of Green Gables
by Kathleen Olmstead
Book Reviewed by Abby Z.
"Anne of Green Gables is a 1908 novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery about a young orphan named Anne Shirley who is sent to live with two siblings named Marilla and Mathew Cuthbert. It is widely regarded to be a classic children's novel of the 20th century. Montgomery's writing style may be difficult for some people to understand, but it was easy for me to get the message that she was trying to communicate. I also felt that her overall chosen length of the novel (it depends on your edition but its around 300-350 pages long) was perfect, considering the vastness of Anne's character and how she develops into an adult. Overall, I would recommend this novel to anyone because it's a stunning piece of work that shows how important it is to shape your own life, interactions, and expectations, especially if you're starting with nothing in your life. The general recollections of childhood are extremely well written with beautiful vocabulary, and I really do think that the majority of children should read it at least once in their lifetime!"
What does this book remind you of? "Anne with an E-- this show is a direct adaptation of the novel and a very enjoyable watch! Amybeth McNulty (actress for Anne Shirley) plays her character so well."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Readers who enjoy heartwarming stories, coming of age, valuable life lessons, and relatable characters from multiple backgrounds."
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The Lightning Thief
by Rick Riordan
Book Reviewed by Ella J.
"This book is the first book in the Percy Jackson series and it is about Percy Jackson who is the son of Poseidon. It is about him finding out that he is a demigod and going to Camp Half Blood. He finds out that Zeus's master bolt has been stolen and he is given a quest to go find it to save his mom and stop a war between the gods. I first read this book in middle school, which is the target audience age but I still love it and have reread it multiple times. It is a fun and easy read about the adventure they take across the country. It lays out the storyline for the rest of the five book series and is a very good first book."
What does this book remind you of? "It reminds me about pretty much any other book or movie that is about Greek mythology."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "People who like Greek mythology."
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Shadow and Bone
by Leigh Bardugo
Book Reviewed by Mairead
"Shadow and Bone follows Alina Starkov, a poor orphan who works as a cartographer for her country Ravka's army, in the midst of a war against a neighboring country. She works in a unit alongside her best friend, a soldier and fellow orphan named Mal Oretsev. However, when a trip with her unit across the magical, monster-filled swath of darkness know as the Shadow Fold goes poorly, it is discovered that Alina has a powerful and rare light-summoning magic that could save her country. She is ripped away from her unit and her best friend to join the ranks of the Grisha, the magical population of her country. There, she works alongside their leader, a mysterious man known as the Darkling, in his effort to win the war and destroy the Shadow Fold. And while it may sound straightforward, her task is far from easy."
What does this book remind you of? "It reminds me of Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi."
Any last thoughts you have about this book you'd like to share with other readers? "There is also a TV adaptation of this book, as well as two sequels and a spinoff series called Six of Crows, all of which I would highly recommend to anyone who likes this book!"
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Divine Rivals
by Rebecca Ross
Book Reviewed by Katie
"Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross is an amazing blend of romance and fantasy with a super original concept. Set in a world where gods are at war and letters can travel magically between typewriters, the story follows two rival journalists who unknowingly fall for each other through their anonymous correspondence. It’s got a rich, magical setting with a hint of historical war vibes that really pull you in. I absolutely loved this book—the romance was so sweet and slow-burning, and the fantasy elements added such a unique twist. The chemistry between the characters was everything, and the emotional moments really hit. The writing felt lyrical but still easy to read, and I was hooked from the start. It’s one of those stories that stays with you after you finish. Just so good all around."
What does this book remind you of? "It reminds me of Carve the Mark by Veronica Roth because they are both fantasy romances with switching perspectives and a war to navigate."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Romantasy lovers."
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Ruthless Vows
by Rebecca Ross
Book Reviewed by Katie
"Ruthless Vows by Rebecca Ross is a great follow-up to Divine Rivals and totally satisfies that need to know what happens next. It picks up right where the first book left off, diving deeper into the war between gods and the emotional tension between the main characters. The story keeps the same magical, slightly historical feel, but with higher stakes and more action this time around. I thought it was a really solid second book—it kept me hooked and delivered on the things I loved about the first one, especially the romance and the emotional pull. The characters continue to grow, and the connection between them just gets stronger. It felt like a natural continuation, and it wrapped up in a way that left me feeling satisfied. Definitely worth reading if you enjoyed Divine Rivals!"
What does this book remind you of? "It reminds me of Carve the Mark by Veronica Roth because they are both fantasy romances with switching perspectives and a war to navigate."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Romantasy lovers."
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The Sunbearer Trials
by Aiden Thomas
Book Reviewed by Sam
"The Sunbearer Trials is a young adult fantasy set in a vividly imagined world inspired by Mexican mythology. The story follows a group of demigods, teenagers born of gods, chosen to compete in a high-stakes competition that determines who will carry the light of the sun and who will be sacrificed to keep the world safe. Among the competitors is Teo, a trans guy and Jade demigod who never expected to be selected. As the trials progress, Teo must confront physical challenges as well as the inequalities in their society. This book was very entertaining, with excellent world building and character development. I appreciated how the author incorporated mythological elements as well as adding a modern aspect to it. The pacing was relatively fast paced and had a great plot twist. The representation in this novel is very well written and thorough, it felt natural and powerful without being overly cringey. The author's writing is compelling, and while the book is a decent length, I never felt like it dragged, I loved the mix between character relationships and action. Overall, The Sunbearer Trials left me eagerly awaiting the sequel and thinking about what it truly means to be a hero. You will love the amount of representation, humor and the plot twist!"
What does this book remind you of? "It reminded me of Percy Jackson and the Olympians and The Hunger Games, but with its own unique aspect. With the mythology and demigod aspect is how it reminds me of the Percy Jackson series. The Hunger Games, because it has characters competing in different trials to see who lasts."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "I would definitely recommend this to fans of any of Rick Riordan's writing. Fans of The Hunger Games or people who love books with strong transgender leads and representation."
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One Dark Window
by Rachel Gillig
Book Reviewed by Bella
"One Dark Window by Rachel Gillig is a dark, atmospheric fantasy novel that blends gothic mystery with slow-burn romance and rich world-building. Set in a kingdom plagued by a magical curse, the story follows a young woman who harbors a dangerous secret and becomes entangled in a high-stakes quest for ancient magic that could change the fate of the realm. The novel weaves themes of power, identity, and inner darkness through lyrical prose and a haunting tone. It features a unique magic system tied to mystical cards and unfolds with a sense of creeping suspense as secrets unravel. With its lush writing and emotional depth, One Dark Window is perfect for fans of moody fantasy and morally gray characters."
What does this book remind you of? "Reminds me of Heartless Hunter by Kristen Ciccarelli; they have a very similar romantasy vibe!"
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Readers who love a gothic, whimsical vibe."
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The Beautiful
by Renâee Ahdieh
Book Reviewed by Ashleigh
"This book kept making me just want more, if that makes any sense. It was suspenseful, and it kept you wondering who was behind it all, and how their world worked. Overall, I thought that the author's style of writing was absolutely exceptional. She took the time, and described that twisted version of 1872 New Orleans as one of the cities where the veil between the supernatural world and the mortal world was so thin that these vampires could be here. The author's style of writing shone through the main character, Celine Rousseau (who had escaped France for her life, and resides at a convent until she is found a place to stay) very well. She described her thoughts perfectly to where you knew exactly how she felt - and you could feel it too. There were also chapters where you would see through the eyes of other characters, like Sebastien (or more famously called Bastien throughout the book), who was the main love interest for Celine, and had his own mystery about him, with his own motives. You also get to see through the eyes of the killer, and throughout the book, there really isn't a clue to who they'd be! But they had reasons, a motive, for wishing harm, and the look into their mind really showed how if you looked at it from their side, what they were doing would make sense. There were other characters as well, such as the mysterious Court of Lions, the sisters at the Ursuline convent where Celine stays with her friends. However, there were times where I would get confused and I wouldn't know the setting because it would cut to a scene in the character's head instead. But overall, it was very beautifully written."
What does this book remind you of? "I've talked to my mother about this, and this is a big hint to the book as well. But, this is very similar to the Anne Rice books, with the plot and characters, and the setting of New Orleans. Personally, I haven't read them (yet), but I have done research on the author and she had actually taken a lot of inspiration from it. A common thing with the characters is the theme of vampires, of course. But there are just a few striking similarities."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "I would expect fans of the supernatural to love this book, and especially those who love so many themes mixed into one book! Mystery, romance, magic, and so much more."
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One Crazy Summer
by Rita Williams-Garcia
Book Reviewed by Abby Z.
"Written by Rita Williams-Garcia and published in 2010, One Crazy Summer is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of three sisters as they navigate the bustling city of Brooklyn, New York. They are in NY because of their father, who wants the girls to spend one summer with their distant mother, Cecile or Nzilla, who abandoned them as a child. However, their mother has a reason for “abandoning” them– she was running a day camp called Black Panther Party that aimed to protect poor African Americans and their communities. Overall, I found this book to be very interesting because it tells a story of neglect not from the mother’s perspective, but from the children, causing me to feel like I was discovering their mother’s secrets just like they were. I definitely recommend this book, especially to younger readers around 10-12, because it tells an important story of how Black culture was treated in New York and it offers a good moral lesson to readers to not always assume what happens behind the scenes. Garcia’s writing style is unique, but easy to understand, and the length is only 218 pages so it’s a quick but meaningful work of literature."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Readers who enjoy learning about African American culture and customs, bustling city life, and the dangers of being in a country at a young age."
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A Thousand Splendid Suns
by Khaled Hosseini
Book Reviewed by AnnaJames
"This book follows characters Mariam and Laila in Afghanistan, who are different personality-wise and have different backgrounds but are brought together when they marry the same man. They both undergo tragedies, making them marry a traditional shoemaker who is older than both of them. This book is amazing! It's amazingly well written and also informative in various ways. The two main characters are so interesting and strong that you root for them throughout the book. It also taught me a lot about the situation for women in Afghanistan. The author does a great job at mixing in the historical events. It is a truly great book and I 100% recommend it. It's also easy to read vocabulary and length-wise."
What does this book remind you of? "The Kite Runner because it's by the same author."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Fans of historical fiction novels!"
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The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins ReidBook Reviewed by Ella J.
"This book is the story of a famous actress (Evelyn Hugo) and her love life throughout her years in Hollywood. After she has retired from acting, at age 79, she decides to give her life story to a journalist to publish into a biography. The story of her seven husbands had been somewhat of a mystery because she'd never went on the record and spoken about it before. She begins with her first husband and how she started out in Hollywood and goes through her whole life, ending with her last husband and revealing the big question of who her true love was. This is one of my favorite books and I love how the author includes two stories in one as she bounces between older Evelyn speaking to the journalist and younger Evelyn as she goes through her life. It is so interesting as the story develops and we get to see who she really loved and why she chose Monique to write her biography."
What does this book remind you of? "I don't really know what it would remind me of but it has like old Hollywood, vintage vibes which I really like."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Definitely romance fans and someone who loves a plot twist."
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The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Book Reviewed by Katie
"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a fun, dramatic read that dives into the life of a legendary Hollywood actress. Told through an interview with a young journalist, the story spans decades and introduces us to Evelyn’s seven very different husbands—and a few surprising relationships along the way. The setting has that old-Hollywood glam, which adds to the charm. I really liked this one—it was easy to get into and hard to put down. Evelyn is such a bold, fascinating character, and the writing flows in a way that makes it feel like you’re watching a movie. It’s the perfect mix of drama, emotion, and just enough twists to keep things interesting. A fun and satisfying read overall!"
What made you interested in reading this book? "I finally ready this after seeing it go viral on TikTok a couple years ago."
What does this book remind you of? "It doesn't remind me of any other books I have read."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "People who love stories with lots of drama!"
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Daisy Jones & the Six
by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Book Reviewed by Ella J.
"This book is about a famous rock band, Daisy Jones and the Six, who has broken up and many years later decided to share their story. It technically takes place in the 90s I think but the story that the characters are talking about takes place in the 1970s. It is written in an interview style so you get perspectives of all the characters, which I thought was pretty cool. I loved the vibe of the book and I thought the character dynamics were really interesting. It's been a while since I have read it but there is also a show adaptation that is really good. Definitely a fun and interesting read if you like music and the 70s rockstar vibe!"
What does this book remind you of? "It reminds me of the movie Almost Famous because it has the same vibe."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Someone who likes books with lots of different perspectives."
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Bad Blood
by Jennifer Barnes
Book Reviewed by AnnaJames
"This book ends the Naturals series, following the Naturals - Cassie, Michael, Dean, Lia, and Sloane - on their last mission in the series. Clues lead them to getting close to finding Cassie's mother. Cassie is desperate to find her mother, but it comes with some risks. A lot is unveiled in this book. Another character also joins the team. I loved this ending of the series! All the characters are so lovable. This kept me on the edge of my seat as well. It was a good length, which made it easy to read/finish. It's also a very easy read because it's geared towards teen audiences. If you love FBI/crime type shows this is perfect! And it wrapped up the series very well."
What does this book remind you of? "It reminds me of Criminal Minds because the plot and characters are similar."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Fans of Criminal Minds or similar shows/books, thriller/FBI type things."
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Five Survive
by Holly Jackson
Book Reviewed by Bella
"Five Survive by Holly Jackson is a gripping young adult thriller that unfolds over the course of eight intense hours. The story follows 18-year-old Red Kenny and her five friends—Maddy, Simon, Arthur, Oliver, and Reyna—as they embark on a road trip from Philadelphia to the Gulf Shores for spring break. Their journey takes a harrowing turn when their RV breaks down in a remote area with no cell service, leaving them stranded. As night falls, they become the targets of a sniper who demands that they reveal a hidden secret among them, threatening to kill them all if they don't comply. As the group struggles to survive the night, tensions rise, and friendships are tested. Each character harbors secrets, and the pressure to uncover the truth leads to shocking revelations. The novel delves into themes of trust, betrayal, and the lengths people will go to protect themselves and others. Jackson's narrative keeps readers on edge with unexpected twists and a claustrophobic setting that heightens the suspense. Five Survive is a testament to the author's skill in crafting intricate plots and complex characters, making it a must-read for fans of suspenseful thrillers."
What does this book remind you of? "Reminds me of One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus, the thriller/mystery vibe is pretty similar!"
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Readers who love a good thriller and plot twist!"
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One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManusBook Reviewed by Peyton G.
"One of Us Is Lying by Karen McManus is a multiple-POV novel about five students of Bayview High School who are all in detention together when something terrible happens to one of them. The book goes through what each student was doing before, during, and after the crime and paints them all in a suspicious light until the shocking truth comes out at the end along with many plot twists. The book was super suspenseful throughout the whole book, and the ending was so shocking I couldn't stop talking about it to people who couldn't care less. The length and pacing of the book was perfect, I couldn't put it down because it felt like after each chapter I was more lost than before I read it. Very well executed!"
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who likes thrillers and mystery books."
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One of Us is Lying
by Karen M. McManus
Book Reviewed by Abby M.
"One of Us Is Lying is a mystery novel set in a high school where five students walk into detention, but only four come out alive. The story follows the four main characters Bronwyn, Nate, Addy, and Cooper, who all come from very different social groups but are now linked by a murder investigation. The setting is mostly at Bayview High School. The book dives deep into the characters’ personal lives, secrets, and how the pressure of being suspects starts to affect them. I really enjoyed this book because it kept me guessing the whole time. The author gave each character a unique voice and backstory. The writing was fast-paced and easy to follow, which made it hard to put the book down. I liked how the story made me question who was telling the truth and who might be hiding something. The book also had deeper themes about stereotypes, identity, and how people aren't always who they seem. Overall, I thought it was a really good read, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who likes mysteries or drama-filled stories with plot twists."
What made you interested in reading this book? "I got interested in reading One of Us Is Lying because I like mystery and suspense stories. The plot really pulls you in, too. Five students walk into detention, and only four walk out? I heard about it from a friend who said it was like a similar book but with a murder twist, which made me curious. Plus, it kept popping up on book recommendation lists online, so I figured I’d check it out."
What does this book remind you of? "It kind of felt like a mix of high school drama and a crime show like Riverdale. The suspense and mystery parts also reminded me of some true crime podcasts I’ve listened to, especially how they slowly reveal clues and make you second-guess what you think you know."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who likes mystery, drama, and plot twists would enjoy One of Us Is Lying."
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One of Us is Next
by Karen M. McManus
Book Reviewed by Abby M.
"One of Us Is Next is a mystery set in Bayview High, where a new game of truth or dare leads to deadly consequences. The story follows three main characters: Maeve, Knox, and Carter. They get caught up in a dangerous game that reveals secrets and lies, as well as the dark side of their school’s social scene. The plot is full of twists and turns, which keeps you guessing the entire time. The book had me hooked from start to finish. I enjoyed how the author gave each character a unique perspective, and it was interesting to see how their lives were all connected to the mystery. I appreciated that the book was fast-paced. McManus has a way of writing that makes you feel like you’re right there with the characters and experiencing the tension and drama yourself. Overall, I thought it was a great read, full of suspense, with plenty of surprising moments that kept me on edge."
What made you interested in reading this book? "I had already read One of Us Is Lying and really liked the mystery and all the twists. I wanted to see what happened next at Bayview High and how the story continued with new characters. I heard about it because it’s a sequel, and a few of my friends had read it and said it was even more intense than the first one. Plus, I like books that are fast-paced and have suspense."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who enjoys stories with mystery, suspense, and plot twists would love One of Us Is Next. It's perfect for readers who like high school dramas with dark secrets and intense challenges. If you're into books with fast-paced action and unexpected twists, this one will keep you hooked. Fans of One of Us Is Lying will definitely enjoy this sequel, as it has a similar vibe but with new characters and an even more twisted game."
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One of Us is Back
by Karen M. McManus
Book Reviewed by Abby M.
"One of Us Is Back is the third book in the One of Us Is Lying series. It brings readers back to Bayview High, where secrets continue to follow the students. The story picks up after the events of the previous books, with new and familiar characters getting caught up in a dangerous mystery. The main characters include a mix of old favorites and new people. They each have their own motivations and hidden truths. As usual, the book revolves around a deadly game that uncovers more than just surface-level secrets, pulling everyone back into the web of Bayview’s dark past. Reading this book made me feel a mix of excitement and suspense from start to finish. I was constantly trying to guess the next twist, and the author did a great job of keeping me on my toes. The author’s writing style was engaging and full of suspense without dragging on. Overall, it was a great continuation of the series, delivering everything I hoped for: plenty of suspense, drama, and unexpected turns that made it impossible to put down."
What made you interested in reading this book? "I was interested in reading One of Us Is Back because I really enjoyed the previous books in the One of Us Is Lying series, and I wanted to see what would happen next with the Bayview story. I heard about it because it was announced as the third book in the series, and I was excited to see how the story would continue. I found out about it through social media, where a lot of people were talking about it and how it ties into the previous books. Since I love a good thriller with twists and intense moments, I couldn't wait to dive into this one."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who loves suspenseful mysteries with unexpected twists will enjoy One of Us Is Back. If you're a fan of high school dramas mixed with dark secrets and thrilling moments, this book is for you. Readers who enjoy complex characters and the feeling of constantly being on edge will be hooked from start to finish. Fans of One of Us Is Lying will definitely appreciate how the story continues, with more layers of mystery and drama."
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Wild Bird
by Wendelin Van Draanen
Book Reviewed by Abby T.
"14 year old Wren Clemmings is taken from her bed in the middle of the night and taken to a wilderness therapy camp for teens. Wren's always been rude and rebellious, but now she's in the middle of nowhere and knows no one. She has to come to terms with her behavior and herself while learning survival skills in the Utah desert. I found this story really interesting because it's so opposite to my own life. It allowed me to see the real struggles people like Wren face and what their realities are. This book is an interesting turn-pager, drawing me further and further in to see what Wren does next."
What made you interested in reading this book? "I came across it at my school's book fair, read the description on the back, and that was it; I was hooked."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of true crime podcasts where teenagers are taken from their homes and tortured in the middle of nowhere. Wild Bird isn't quite like that, but there are elements that remind me of true crime podcasts."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Someone who likes self-discovery stories will love Wild Bird!"
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The Running Dream
by Wendelin Van Draanen
Book Reviewed by Abby T.
"High school student and track star, Jessica Carlisle, is riding the track team bus home from a meet with her teammates when they get into a horrible accident. One of her teammates is killed, while Jessica loses her leg. Throughout the book, she struggles to come to terms with her new reality. During this struggle, Jessica finds a new friend she relates to in ways she simply can't with her other friends. This book made feel very sad because as an athlete I understand how horrible it'd be if I couldn't play my sport any more. The book is eye-opening to people with disabilities and their lives. It also reminds me to be grateful everyday for the little things."
What made you interested in reading this book? "I was hearing around my school that this book was really good, and I'm an athlete myself, so the book intrigued me."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of the movie Full Out and the book/movie Soul Surfer because they both showcase an athlete being struck with tragedy via an injury. Yet they all show how they eventually bounce back and are better for it."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Athletes would really enjoy The Running Dream because they understand the fear of an injury ending your career."
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The Summer I Turned Pretty
by Jenny Han
Book Reviewed by Ella J.
"This book is about a girl, Belly, who stays at her family friend's beach house every summer. She had grown up going there and had always had a crush on one of the boys, Conrad. It was usually the same every summer but this year she had a major glow up so everything changed. She experiences new relationships and changes in old relationships and ultimately has one of her most memorable summers. I loved this book because it is right up my ally. I really enjoy quick, easy to read romance books and I also love the beach so this was a perfect combination between the two. It is the first book in a trilogy so after this great story you still have two more to read."
What does this book remind you of? "It reminds me of My Life with the Walter Boys."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "I think anyone who loves love triangles and summer books would like this."
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The Summer of Broken Rules
by K.L. Walther
Book Reviewed by Jennings
"The main character, Meredith Fox lost her sister Claire in a drunk driving accident last year. But this summer her cousin is getting married, so she travels to her family's farm where she usually spends the summer- but hasn't since Claire's death. Meredith competes in a game of assassin (hoping to win in honor of her sister, who was the reigning champion), tries to fix things with parts of her family she cut off after the accident, and does her best to unscramble what's happening with her and a cute groomsman who she grows closer with by the day. It was amazing!"
What does this book remind you of? "The Summer I Turned Pretty, because in both the main character goes somewhere in the summer, and has to sort out things with both her family and her love for a boy."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Lovers of Rom-Coms and other adventurous romances."
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Sick Kids in Love
by Hannah Moskowitz
Book Reviewed by Sofie D.
"Isabel is a chronically ill teenager living in New York. Because of her chronic illness, she has never let anyone get close to her; she holds her friends at arm's length and doesn't tell them the severity of her illness. Then she meets Sasha, who's also a chronically ill teenager, and they strike up a friendship over their common chronic illness background, which turns into something more. I absolutely adore this book; it resonates so deeply with me as a chronically ill teen, but I have also recommended it to non-chronically ill friends who also enjoy it. It shows a lot of experiences I go through daily as a chronically ill teen, and the continuous struggle to be understood by my peers. I absolutely recommend it for any chronically ill teens looking for a sweet book to read or for anyone who wants to understand a different perspective and lived experience."
What does this book remind you of? "Unfortunately, I haven't seen many chronically ill teenagers in media and so can't compare this book to any others."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Any chronically ill teens, fans of teen romances."
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The Do-Over
by Lynn Painter
Book Reviewed by Jennings
"Emilie is stuck repeating the worst Valentines Day ever. She watches her picture perfect boyfriend cheat on her, hears bad family news, and gets stuck up in drama. The day repeats over and over, but somehow she can't escape one boy, Nick. A few Valentines days in, Emilie decides to do what she wants, and gets to see what happens when she says what she means - instead of staying quiet. It's awesome!!!"
What made you interested in reading this book? "I saw it in the public library, and figured I would give it a chance."
What does this book remind you of? "Groundhog day, because both characters are stuck in a repeating bad day."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "People who love a good girl gone rouge."
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While We're Young
by K. L. Walther
Book Reviewed by Cecilia
"This book is about three main characters, Grace, Isa, and Everett, childhood best friends. They have had some ups and downs in their friendships over the past years, so Grace decides to make them skip school with her and take them on a Ferris Bueller's Day Off-inspired day off to mend the relationship. Since their graduation from high school is so soon and they are all going off to different schools, they are having a one last hurrah. This book piqued my interest in the fast-paced writing and the adventurous day they were having. There were so many different intertwining plots throughout the book that added a level of complexity to it, and brought a sense of suspense. With the deep history between these characters, as a reader, you are waiting to see who will reveal their secrets first and how everything will work out. All in all this book is a great read if you want something light and stress-free to read!"
What does this book remind you of? "Obviously, since it is inspired by Ferris Bueller's Day Off, it reminds me of this movie. With the plotting and secrecy in the movie, that magic is brought into the book."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "If you're someone who loves an easy read that will keep you interested and happy, this is the book for you."
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If He Had Been With Me
by Laura Nowlin
Book Reviewed by Peyton
"If He Had Been with Me by Laura Nowlin follows a young girl, Autumn, in her journey through self-discovery as she deals with friendships issues, first loves, and family issues in such a raw and intense way that I have yet to come across in another book. We see a very prominent character in the book who seems to haunt the narrative, Finn, or Finny as our main character Autumn calls him. They are neighbors and former best friends, but differing paths they follow as they grow apart from each other due to the typically high school experience is what calls Autumn back to him. We see their relationship develop in such a heartbreaking way, I haven't recovered since. They book made me sob until there were no more tears, left a pang in my chest I couldn't shake until the morning after, and left me with a feeling of emptiness. As a teenage girl struggling with many of the same things the main character was struggling with, it probably wasn't a good time to read this book, or was it the perfect time? If you are struggling with some of the tough subject this book covers I highly suggest reading this book to maybe develop a different perspective on these sort of situations. The book was well-written and executed but at some parts I did get a little secondhand embarrassment or just got a little bored. Other than that this book was incredible. This book will make you cry or at least leave you feeling empty. I suggest reading Finn's POV to provide some healing and closure; If Only I Had Told Her."
What does this book remind you of? "It reminds me of another book I read called The Way I Used to Be by Amber Smith, not because they has similar plots, but because they both discuss harsh issues that a teenage girl might experience in such a raw way so similar to reality."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Someone who wants to experience the raw feelings that come with grief and other teenage girl experiences."
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Bully
by Penelope Douglas
Book Reviewed by Peyton
"Bully is the first book in The Fallaway series by Penelope Douglas. It follows a teenage girl named Tatum (Tate) as she works to find herself and her inner peace after her former best friend, Jared, makes it his life's purpose to bully her throughout the last of their high school days. Tate slowly becomes more and more fed up with Jared as his "pranks" seem to turn more humiliating by the day. She begins to wear down on Jared's fake personality and starts to see him for who he really is. This book was a little cheesy, but for the plot it makes sense and I think it was a well-executed story! It was very entertaining."
What does this book remind you of? "This book was the first of it's kind for me. At the time I had not read any "enemies to lovers" books before and it was super exciting."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "People who enjoy the enemies to lovers trope or anyone that loves a good high school romance."
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Beach Read
by Emily Henry
Book Reviewed by Abby T.
"January Andrews and Augustus Everett find themselves in neighboring beach houses for the next three months. They're both authors, but of completely different genres. January develops stories of romance and falling in love, while Augustus creates literary fiction worthy of many puzzling looks and looming questions. They're both fighting writer's block in order to produce their next book when they a strike a deal to write a book in the other's genre. They'll each take turns bringing the other on field trips in the name of research for their new books, but end up finding something much spicier between them along the way. I highly enjoyed this book, but at times it did feel a little long. I felt the author could've left out some chapters that seemed long to read. That being said I still very much enjoyed myself while reading this, my cheeks flushing occasionally."
What does this book remind you of? "Beach Read reminds me of other romance books I've read like It Ends With Us, minus the domestic abuse aspect."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Someone who loves playful romance novels will really enjoy Beach Read! If you like reading on the beach, this book is the perfect summer romance for just that occasion."
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Heart Bones
by Colleen Hoover
Book Reviewed by Peyton
"This classic romance novel dives into other topics other than the girl finding her true love. In Heart Bones by Collen Hoover, we come along the ride of Beyah and her tragic upbringing and why she is the way she is today. Her childhood described in the books is a clear explanation to the way she acts in her young adult years, especially in the relationships that mean a lot to her. She struggles with trust and has a hard time fitting into this new-found family of hers, but nevertheless she overcomes in a powerful romantic breakthrough with the man she has been building a relationship with. I don't normally read Collen Hoover books as I feel they are all the same, but this story stood out to me and had a differing effect than the other books I have read by her. The pacing was good, and the book is a pretty short read. If you want to read this book I suggest also reading Verity by Collen Hoover before the movie."
What made you interested in reading this book? "I was scanning through Collen Hoover's section at a bookstore called Books-a-Million in order to get out of a reading slump, and I found this book. My friends have also mentioned it before."
What does this book remind you of? "I don't really have anything to compare to the plot of Heart Bones, but I'm sure there is some story out there that is similar!"
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Anyone who enjoys romance books with a little deeper meaning."
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Red, White, & Royal Blue
by Casey McQuiston
Book Reviewed by Abby T.
"The book follows the President's son, Alex, as he assists in his mom's campaign while also falling for the heir to the British crown, Henry. But when they first met, it wasn't all butterflies. When the two first meet at the 2016 Rio Olympics, they hated each other. But getting stuck in a broom closet together due to a security threat sparks a shift in their dynamic. Things get complicated as they balance their political duties along with their, newly developed, personal feelings. This book made me feel giddy; I was excited to turn the page to see what they would do or say next. Their witty humor and spicy interactions made my cheeks flush while reading. It's a good-sized book, but it reads fast because it's so exciting."
What does this book remind you of? "Red, White & Royal Blue reminds me of the TV show Heartstopper, which I highly enjoyed, so it makes sense that I would enjoy this book. Both are centered around male gay relationships while working through personal issues together."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Someone who enjoys reading or watching gay relationship stories, or someone who likes the enemies to lovers trope of the romance genre would really enjoy this book."
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The 57 Bus
by Dashka Slater
Book Reviewed by Olivia
"The 57 Bus by Dashka Slater is a fascinating nonfiction book that shows the reality of a real-life incident in Oakland, California. The book follows two teens from different backgrounds. Sasha is a white, nonbinary student from a wealthier neighborhood, and Richard is a Black student from a rougher part of town. Their lives come together when Richard accidentally sets fire to Sasha’s skirt while they are riding the 57 bus, leading to serious consequences. The author's writing is captivating and mixes a journalism tone with interview like dialogue with a compassionate narrative. The book made me reflect deeply on issues like justice, privilege, and identity. The situation makes you think about consequences and the complexity of situations, the book makes you look closely at your morals and think critically about problems. It’s a quick read, but every chapter feels important, and the short sections make it easy to comprehend. I appreciated how the author gave multiple perspectives without forcing a single side. The story is emotional and sometimes difficult to read, but it’s an important discussion about forgiveness and systemic issues in society. Overall, The 57 Bus is a powerful and thought-provoking book that stays with you long after you finish. This is a great book and will make you want to look up the characters in real life to learn more about the story!"
What made you interested in reading this book? "I chose this book for a class project in my AP Language class...The fact that this book was based on a true story made me want to read it and the controversial themes made it seem like a thrilling read."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminds me of the show 13 Reasons Why. Both the show and the book have a similar raw and emotional tone, especially in how they explore the reality of high school life, trauma, and the consequences of one action affecting so many people. Both the book and the show are hard to take in at times because of their difficult themes but both are important in understanding different perspectives. The only way we can understand difficult themes is by talking about them."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "The 57 Bus would be perfect for people who enjoy real-life stories that challenge their current perspectives. Fans of true crime, but with a focus on justice and empathy, such as people who enjoyed The Hate U Give, would likely find this book compelling. If you like thinking critically and challenging your current views, you would love this book."
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The 57 Bus
by Dashka Slater
Book Reviewed by Abby M.
"I found The 57 Bus by Dashka Slater to be an eye-opening and powerful book. The story takes place in Oakland, California, and follows two teenagers from very different worlds. Sasha is a white, nonbinary teen from a progressive neighborhood, and Richard is a Black teen from a rougher part of town. They cross paths in a crazy incident that takes place on a public bus. What I liked most about this book is that it's thought provoking. It’s not just a story, it’s also a conversation starter about gender, race, and the justice system. Slater’s writing style is really engaging and easy to follow. She also includes facts and interviews that share the opinions of those involved. Even though the book deals with serious topics, it never felt too heavy and it was just the right length to stay invested in the story. Overall, The 57 Bus reminded me how quick people are to judge others without knowing their full story. It shows that there's always more beneath the surface, and that compassion and understanding matter more than we realize."
What made you interested in reading this book? "I chose this book to read for an assignment in AP Lang. After reading about the back story of the event the book is centered around, it seemed like it would be a good read."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "It's perfect for readers who enjoy books that make you see different sides of a situation, especially if you're interested in topics like race, gender identity, or the justice system. If you like stories that challenge your way of thinking, spark conversations, and leave you with something to reflect on, The 57 Bus is a great pick."
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Man's Search for Meaning
by Viktor Emil Frankl
Book Reviewed by Olivia
"This book is a powerful telling of a Holocaust survivor's story and his psychological theories along with it. The main character Victor Frankel is also the author and chooses to break the book into two parts. The first part of the book explains his personal experiences and observations during his time in the concentration camps during the Holocaust. The second part is Frankl’s psychological theory called logotherapy. Before his time in the concentration camps, Frankl was a psychologist and was working on this theory. This book makes you feel such intense emotions - not only is the subject of the Holocaust heavy itself, but the connections that Franklin makes to his psychological development is very interesting. At times the writing style is a bit hard to follow because of how intense the topics are, but overall the short nature of the book makes it a bit more digestible. This is a great book if you want to look into the psychological aspects of the Holocaust from the perspective of a survivor. I think it’s interesting at the beginning of the book that Frankl acknowledges that there are already many accounts of the Holocaust by survivors and that his book is going to be different with his psychological theory incorporated into it. Frankl’s writing is deeply moving and thought-provoking. Despite the grim subject matter, his reflections on human strength and purpose are ultimately uplifting. Overall, this was a more literature-heavy read, but learning about the past is important and this book is a valuable account of a truly horrific event. The conclusions that Frankl makes about the human race will really make you think."
What does this book remind you of? "This book reminded me of Night by Ellie Wiesel and also The Diary of Anne Frank, due to its account of the Holocaust. It also reminded me of the TV show the “Tattooist of Auschwitz” with its emotional connection to the characters' experiences."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Someone who likes connecting personal experiences to psychology would enjoy this book. Also someone who likes historical accounts of major events."
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All the President's Men
by Carl Bernstein and Bob Woodward
Book Reviewed by AnnaJames
"This book follows Washington Post journalists Woodward and Bernstein as they uncover all the details of the Watergate scandal and report on it. It's written by them and it gives all the details and their exact accounts of what happened in real life. The book starts at the very beginning of the events and it ends with a satisfying ending. It was a really good read even though sometimes it seemed slow. It was fast paced and the two main "characters" were fun to follow. It's also very informative about some historical events/figures. If you find politics/history interesting, I'd recommend it."
What does this book remind you of? "Nothing, really."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Those interested in politics and history!"
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The Glass Castle
by Jeannette Walls
Book Reviewed by AnnaJames
"This book follows a young girl (Jeannette) in an unusual family of nomads, living all through America in poverty. Though parts of it are fun, her father is an addict and her parents are reckless. Jeannette can rise above it and become successful, but she runs back into her parents years after escaping their lifestyle. This book is an amazing read! It is so well written. I was rooting for the main character/narrator throughout. The plot is also very engaging. I never got bored. I recommend the movie as well even though the book is 100x better, there's nothing like it! It's nonfiction but reads like a fictional novel."
What does this book remind you of? "It reminds me of Educated because the authors are in somewhat similar situations."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Readers who just want to read non-fiction, classic novels."
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Persepolis - The Story of a Childhood
by Marjane Satrapi
Book Reviewed by Matina
"This book follows the story of a young girl by the name of Marjane, who lived during the time of the Islamic Revolution in Iran. It describes the many experiences she faces as a girl before and after the Revolution. The books also shows the rich history of Iran, and how it relates to how her childhood turned out. It is a visually simple and yet profound memoir of the life that a girl lived, and draws a person in from the beginning. The use of a graphic novel portrays Satrapi's style and her love for her culture. The use of language throughout demonstrates the innocence of childhood when met with external factors threatening to take it away. There is a plethora of visual and literary analysis to be taken away from this amazing story. Marjane Satrapi has other books like Women, Life, Freedom, and Chicken with Plums. They are both worth checking out."
What made you interested in reading this book? "I found this book in the library when looking for a new graphic novel to read. I also reread this book for my high school English class."
What does this graphic novel remind you of? "Any historical graphic novel could be reminiscent of this one."
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Someone who wants an account of what it was like to be a child during the Islamic Revolution would like this book."
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"Nene Yashiro is an enthusiastic high-school girl whose determined to get her crush to like her by any means necessary, and seeks out the help of the supernatural. She hears about a legend of a spirit in the restroom that grants any wish for a price. She finds out that this spirit is too inept to grant her wish, and steals a magical item to make her and the person she likes soulmates. This ends with her turning into a fish before using the artifact, a fish scale, and a giant fish queen comes to make Yashiro a part of her underwater kingdom. The spirit, Hanako, saves her due to a technicality (he actually didn't get the chance to grant her wish properly and uses the fish scale to bind the two of them together to avoid the curse), and all is well. Except that she now has assist with keeping the bathrooms clean and also maintaining peace between the supernatural and the student of the school. Hijinks ensue as little pink rabbits steal student's possessions, a boy exorcist comes to exterminate Hanako, and staircase in the school causes people to disappear. This manga is very light-hearted and fast paced with a great art style! This volume sets up a great exposition for the adventures these characters face in the future, and is a fun read for those who like a little mystery and paranormal. The dynamics of these characters are really interesting and seeing them develop in later installations is great." What does this manga remind you of? "The Disastrous Life of Saiki K., an anime that I've seen, also takes a silly and fun approach to the supernatural, with it's main character being a psychic. There's also the X-Files, which sometimes sinks into the horror aspect of the uncanny, but can also be pretty funny." Who would enjoy reading this book? "Those who like a story with bizarre elements such as urban legends, the supernatural, etc. that doesn't take itself too seriously and manages to be funny would like this." |
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Toilet-Bound Hanako-Kun
by AidaIro
Book Reveiwed by Makenna
"Nene Yashiro, a freshmen in high school, summons one of the seven mysterious of the school, the wish granting, supernatural, “Hanako-San of the Toilet.” The rumor is that a young ghost girl will appear and grant your wish for the right price. But when she summons Hanako, not only does Nene find out that the ghost is actually a boy, but there are so many more details and mystery to his story… and the school. Together, Hanako-kun and Nene uncover the seven great mysteries of the school, encountering many dangers and tragedies. Along the way, Nene discovers answers about Hanako’s dark past. As she unawarely begins to develop feelings for him, trials arise forcing her to question whether she can really trust this ghost boy. This series always throws you down the wrong path; You’ll think you know what’s bound to happen but then you’ve been wrong all along! To me it’s all about friendship and overcoming internal trials, but in the end, if you take out the mystery, magic, and action, it’s a sweet coming of age story. Not to mention, the art is beautiful. You’ll find yourself staring at a single manga panel for hours, and if it’s a sad one you’ll be in tears all that time, or pure bewilderment!! If you’re looking to be surprised, this manga will always catch you with incredible conclusions to impossible mysteries. This is my favorite manga/anime of all time and I would defiantly recommend, even for people who don’t like romance! The story is incredible with the most gripping plot, a must read."
What made you interested in reading this manga? "I’m a big manga reader and I love art especially. This manga has exceedingly beautiful art so I couldn’t resist trying it out. It ended up being my all-time favorite manga!"
What does this manga remind you of? "Nothing really. This manga has created its own genre, with the perfect mix of romance, action, and comedy. Nothing that I have read really makes me think, “oh, that’s like in TBHK!"
Who would enjoy reading this book? "Someone who likes magical romance stories with action and plenty of mystery."
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New Hanover County Library
201 Chestnut Street, Wilmington, North Carolina 28401
910-798-6301www.nhclibrary.org |
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