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HT-RILEY-C.    Dystopian.  Survival.  Rebellion

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In a future ravaged by a lethal plague, society is divided into the "Healthy" and the "Infected." Seventeen-year-old Ashen Spencer lives in the shadows of the elite, desperately trying to protect her younger sister from a world that treats the sick as disposable. When a miraculous "Cure" is announced by the powerful and mysterious government, it seems like a beacon of hope.

But the Cure comes with a steep price: those who receive it are changed in ways they never expected, and the government's true intentions are far from benevolent. Ashen soon finds herself caught in a web of secrets and lies, forced to choose between the safety of her family and the chance to join a growing rebellion. It is a pulse-pounding "race against time" mystery where the most dangerous monsters aren't the ones created by a virus, but the ones who seek to control the survivors. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-TAMANI-A.   Basketball Black-Identity. Family Secrets

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Carli and Rex are two high school basketball stars in Houston who seem to have it all figured out. Carli is a perfectionist who finds solace in the rhythm of the game, while Rex is a talented player struggling to live up to the legacy of his father. When they meet, their connection is instant and electric—a "first love" that feels like it could change everything.

But as their relationship deepens, the foundations of their lives begin to crack. Carli discovers a devastating secret about her mother that threatens her sense of identity, and Rex has to confront the toxic expectations placed on him by his family. The novel follows them as they navigate the "all the things we never knew" about the people we love most. It is a story about the courage it takes to be vulnerable, the messiness of family secrets, and the realization that sometimes, the only way to find yourself is to let go of the version of yourself everyone else expects you to be. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-MCLEMORE-W.  Trans-Identity Latino.  Friendship

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Miel and Sam have been inseparable since the day Miel "spilled" out of a water tower and Sam found her. Miel is a girl who grows roses from her wrists—a beautiful but painful secret she hides from everyone but Sam. Sam is a boy who paints moons and hangs them in the trees, a boy who is trans and navigating his own quiet, courageous path toward being himself.

Their peaceful, private world is threatened by the Bonner sisters—four beautiful, cruel girls rumored to be witches. The Bonners are losing their own magic, and they believe that Miel’s roses are the key to reclaiming it. To get what they want, they are willing to expose Miel and Sam’s most private truths. The novel is a lush, poetic exploration of identity, heritage, and the "magic" of being seen for who you truly are. It is a story that proves the most powerful enchantments are the ones we weave for the people we love. (Rated PG-13)

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HT-DIETRICH-L.  Spy-Thriller.  LGBTQ+.  Dystopian, 

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In a world controlled by a secret organization known as The Love Interests, teenagers are trained from childhood to be the "perfect" romantic match for influential people. There are two types of Interests: the Dices, who are sweet, dependable, and wholesome; and the Vics, who are edgy, mysterious, and dangerous.

Caden is a Dice, trained to be the boy next door. Dylan is a Vic, trained to be the bad boy. Both have been assigned to the same target: a brilliant girl named Juliet. But this isn't a normal competition. The rules are simple and brutal: whoever Juliet chooses gets to live a life of luxury with her. Whoever she rejects is "liquidated"—killed by the organization. As Caden and Dylan compete for Juliet’s heart, they begin to realize that the person they are actually falling for is each other. Now, they must find a way to break the system before the organization realizes their "Love Interests" have developed a love of their own. (Rated PG-13)

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HT-GIBSON-F. Mystery Haunted House, Small Town 

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David is a teen who spends his nights working at "Frightmares," a local haunted house attraction in a small Florida town. He’s used to fake blood and jump scares, but his world becomes a real-life horror story when he discovers a very real, very dead body hidden among the props. Even more disturbing? The victim is someone David knew, and the local police seem more interested in closing the case quickly than finding the truth.

As David begins his own investigation, he is pulled into the dark history of the town and the treacherous beauty of the surrounding swamps. Alongside a girl named Chloe—who has her own reasons for wanting answers—David realizes that the killer is using the town’s legends and the "Frightmares" attraction as a cover. It is a tense, "whodunit" mystery that proves the things we do for entertainment are nothing compared to the monsters living right next door. (Rated PG-13)

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US-GARCIA-E.    Brooklyn.   Trauma.   Healing.  Trust

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Sixteen-year-old Thulani is a dreamer and an artist who finds solace in the pigeons he tends on the roof of his Brooklyn brownstone. His quiet world is shattered when he witnesses a brutal assault on a girl named Yylreina in a nearby alley. While others look away, Thulani is the one who stays, the one who calls for help, and the one who cannot stop thinking about the girl he saw at her most vulnerable.

As Yylreina struggles to reclaim her life and her sense of safety, Thulani finds himself drawn to her, not out of pity, but out of a genuine desire to connect. However, Yylreina is understandably guarded, her world now defined by sharp edges and a profound lack of trust. The novel follows their tentative, often difficult journey toward one another. It is a story about the "slow" work of healing, the courage it takes to be vulnerable again, and the way love can act as a bridge—even when the ground beneath it feels broken. (Rated R)

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US-VELASQUEZ-W.  Brooklyn    Puerto Rico.  Poverty

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Sarai is a first-generation Puerto Rican eighth-grader navigating life in Bushwick, Brooklyn. Her world is a vibrant but difficult tapestry of family loyalty, the "hustle" of living in poverty, and the constant navigation of a neighborhood undergoing rapid change. While her mother struggles with untreated mental illness and the weight of "making it" in America, Sarai is trying to find her own voice amidst the noise of the streets and the silence of her home.

The novel is told through sharp, percussive poems that tackle heavy themes—housing insecurity, the stigma of "the system," and the complex relationship between a daughter and a mother who loves her but cannot always protect her. Sarai isn't just a victim of her circumstances; she is an observer, a poet, and a fighter. It is a story about the resilience of the human spirit and the realization that "making it" isn't just about a destination, but about the dignity you maintain along the way. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-SAEED-F.        Magical Realism.   Romance

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Yasmeen and Rafay have been best friends since childhood, growing up in the picturesque, magical town of MoonScent. In their world, certain people have a unique connection to "the scent"—a mystical floral essence that infuses the land with beauty and peace. But as an encroaching desert and a corrupt regime begin to choke the life out of their home, the "scent" begins to fade, and the town falls into despair.

When Rafay’s family is targeted by the government and Yasmeen’s own secrets threaten to tear them apart, the two must decide if their love is strong enough to survive a journey across a changing landscape. The title refers to the many nuances of love in the Urdu language—from the initial spark of attraction to the devastating weight of sacrifice. It is a lyrical, atmospheric story that proves even when a world is ending, the words we choose to say to each other can start a new beginning. (Rated PG-13)

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HM-DIMALINE-F.       Ghost   Indigenous     Grief 

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Winifred lives in a small house on the edge of a municipal cemetery where her father works as the groundskeeper. Her mother died giving birth to her, and Winifred has grown up in the shadow of headstones, feeling more at home with the dead than the living. To help her father keep his job amidst rumors that the cemetery is "under-utilized," Winifred begins to lean into local legends, wandering the grounds at night to make people believe the place is haunted.

But the "ghost" story becomes terrifyingly real when Winifred meets Phil, a girl who actually is a ghost—and who has been stuck in the cemetery since her death decades ago. As their connection deepens, Winifred begins to uncover the truth about Phil’s life and the tragic circumstances of her death. The novel is a gorgeous, atmospheric "Gothic" mystery that explores Indigenous identity, the weight of generational trauma, and the thin veil between our world and the next. (PG-13)

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HM-WERLIN-H.          Fantasy Healing, Witchcraft

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Fifteen-year-old Sylvie has always known she is different. She possesses a "gift" passed down through the women in her family: the ability to heal the body and, more dangerously, to see into the minds of others. After her grandmother—her teacher and protector—passes away, Sylvie is left alone in their small village, where the locals are increasingly suspicious of anyone who doesn't fit the mold of a "good Christian girl."

When a grief-stricken mother begs Sylvie to use her magic to bring back a dead child, Sylvie realizes her powers are far greater—and more volatile—than she ever imagined. Fearing she might accidentally do more harm than good, she sets off on a journey across the French countryside to find a legendary healer who can teach her how to control her "witchcraft." Along the way, she befriends a clever boy and a mysterious merchant, all while trying to stay one step ahead of the Inquisition. It is a story about the weight of heritage, the fear of the unknown, and the courage to claim your own identity in a world that wants to label you "wicked." (Rated PG)

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US-SAWYERR-A.      Sexual Assault.  Church  Justice

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Sixteen-year-old Amina embodies the word "fierce." She is a star on her church’s step team, a girl with a sharp tongue and a clear sense of self. But her world is shattered when she is sexually assaulted by a charismatic and respected pastor at her church—the very person she was taught to trust most.

The novel follows Amina through the "fighting parts" of her recovery: the internal battle with guilt and shame, the social battle of being disbelieved by her community, and the legal battle of seeking justice against a powerful figure. Told through visceral, percussive poetry, the story captures the fragmentation of trauma—how it breaks a person into pieces—and the exhausting, courageous work of fitting those pieces back together. Amina must decide if she will stay silent to protect the "reputation" of the institution or if she will use her voice to burn down the systems that protected her abuser. (Rated R)

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EE-ALBERTALLI-L.   Bisexuality.  Friendship. Romance

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Leah Burke is usually the one with the dry wit and the deadpan expression. She’s a talented drummer, an artist, and she’s been out as bisexual to her mom for years—but she hasn't quite found the courage to tell her friends. As senior year winds down, the "Creekwood" gang is starting to fracture under the stress of the future.

When a series of prom-related mishaps forces Leah to spend more time with the beautiful and seemingly perfect Abby Suso, Leah realizes her long-time crush on someone else might have been a distraction from her true feelings for Abby. The novel is a messy, honest, and deeply relatable look at the "offbeat" moments of growing up: the fear of outgrowing your friends, the awkwardness of new romance, and the courage it takes to be vulnerable when your default mode is "guarded." (Rated PG-13)

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EE-WILKINSON-P.  Identity    LGBTQ+.  High School

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Sixteen-year-old Ava is tired of being the "alternative" girl. She’s spent her life in black hoodies, hanging out with her girlfriend and their tight-knit group of outsider friends. But as she starts at a new, prestigious high school, Ava decides to conduct a social experiment: she’s going to be "Pink."

Ava trades her combat boots for ballet flats and her cynicism for a bubbly, mainstream persona. She joins the musical, makes friends with the popular crowd, and even catches the eye of a cute boy. But living a double life is harder than it looks. Ava finds herself caught between her old identity and her new "Pink" veneer, lying to everyone she cares about—including herself. The novel is a clever, often hilarious look at the labels we wear, the subcultures we inhabit, and the terrifying, wonderful moment when we stop pretending and just be. (Rated PG-13)

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HM-RYAN-K.       Mystery   Cold Case.  LGBTQ+

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One year ago, the "Catalog Killer" terrorized the town of Camera Cove, leaving behind four dead teenagers and a community paralyzed by fear. The murders stopped as abruptly as they began, leaving the cases cold and the families without closure. Mac Bell, whose best friend Connor was the final victim, is still drowning in grief and unanswered questions.

When Mac finds a cryptic note hidden in Connor’s old jacket, he realizes the killer might not be a stranger who moved on, but someone still living among them. Alongside a group of friends who are all tied to the victims, Mac begins a dangerous DIY investigation. As he peels back the layers of Camera Cove’s "perfect" facade, he discovers that everyone—including the people he trusts most—is hiding something. It is a tense, "whodunit" race against time where the past refuses to stay buried and the truth is more personal than Mac ever imagined. (Rated PG-13)

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US-ACEVEDO-P.    Slam Poetry   Harlem.   Afro-Latina

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Xiomara Batista feels unheard and unable to hide in her Harlem neighborhood. Ever since her body grew into curves she didn’t ask for, she’s learned to let her fists and her fierce reputation do the talking. Her devoutly religious Mami expects her to be a quiet, obedient daughter of the church, and her twin brother, Xavier, is too caught up in his own secrets to truly see her.

But Xiomara has a secret of her own: a leather notebook filled with poems. In its pages, she pours out her frustrations with religion, her budding feelings for a boy named Aman, and her desire to be more than just a daughter or a body. When she is invited to join her school’s slam poetry club, Xiomara must decide if she is brave enough to perform her truths out loud. It is a visceral, beautifully written story about the liberation that comes when you stop hiding and start speaking. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-KARIM-T.        Identity.   Toronto.   Poetry

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Sarah is a Pakistani-American teenager who has always felt a bit like an outsider, even within her own community. When her best friend, Shabnam, decides to start wearing the hijab, Sarah finds herself questioning her own relationship with her faith and her family's expectations. Her world is further complicated when she falls for a charming, poetry-obsessed boy named Jamie, who seems to see a side of her that no one else does.

As Sarah navigates the "battlefield" of high school, she is also dealing with the lingering shadow of her parents' divorce and her father's distant, scholarly nature. The novel is a witty, honest, and sometimes painful exploration of the "firsts"—first love, first major betrayal, and the first time you realize that your parents are flawed human beings. Sheba Karim weaves Urdu poetry and South Asian history into a contemporary story about the "heart" and the many ways it can be broken and mended. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-GREEN-L.   Boarding School.  Philosophy.  Grief

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Miles "Pudge" Halter is tired of his safe, predictable life in Florida. Obsessed with the famous last words of historical figures, he heads to Culver Creek Boarding School in Alabama to seek his own "Great Perhaps." There, he falls into a world of pranksters, rule-breakers, and the enigmatic, self-destructive Alaska Young.

Alaska is a force of nature: brilliant, funny, deeply troubled, and utterly captivating. Pudge, along with his new friends The Colonel and Takumi, navigates the highs and lows of boarding school life—first loves, epic pranks, and late-night philosophical debates. But when a sudden tragedy strikes, the group is left to pick up the pieces and solve the mystery of what truly happened. It is a story about the labyrinth of suffering, the weight of guilt, and the realization that people are more than just the sum of their secrets. (Rated PG-13)

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The story begins in 1973 with Ranee and her two daughters, Starry and Sunny, as they move from London to New York City. Over the next forty years, the novel follows three generations of Das women—Ranee, the grandmother holding onto tradition; her daughters, who struggle to find their place in a changing America; and eventually, her granddaughters, Shanti and Anna, who must reconcile their modern identities with their family's deep roots.

Each woman faces a different "distant" challenge: the pressure of arranged marriages, the pain of racial prejudice, the search for a creative voice, and the difficulty of maintaining a faith that feels relevant. Through weddings, heartbreaks, and the quiet moments of daily life, the Das family learns that "home" isn't a single place, but a collection of the people you carry with you. It is a lyrical, hopeful exploration of how culture evolves and how love acts as the bridge between generations. (Rated PG)

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US-HENRY-U.     Kidnapping.  Corruption.  Survival

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Sixteen-year-old Cassie Streng thinks her biggest problem is her mother’s new boyfriend, Rick. But when Cassie discovers that Rick is a corrupt doctor who is over-prescribing a dangerous new drug to his patients, her life takes a terrifying turn. To keep her quiet, Rick has Cassie kidnapped in the middle of the night and sent to Peaceful Pines, a "boot camp" for wayward teens in the remote Mexican desert.

Peaceful Pines is anything but peaceful. It is a brutal, isolated facility where the staff uses psychological and physical "shock points" to enforce total obedience. Cut off from the world and surrounded by high fences and desert heat, Cassie realizes that she isn't there to be "rehabilitated"—she’s there to be silenced. To escape, she must form an alliance with her fellow inmates and find a way to outsmart the guards before Rick’s influence reaches across the border to finish what he started. It is a heart-pounding story of a girl who refuses to let her voice be erased. (Rated PG-13)

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US-SANCHEZ-W.   Migration.  Guatemala.   Survival

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Pulga, Chico, and Pequeña are three teenagers living in Puerto Barrios, Guatemala, where the shadow of a local gang leader, Rey, looms over everything. After witnessing a horrific crime and realizing that Rey has set his sights on them—intending to recruit the boys and claim Pequeña as his own—they realize they have no choice but to flee.

The three friends embark on a perilous journey north, traveling through Mexico toward the United States border. They must navigate the "Bestia"—the notorious network of freight trains used by migrants—while dodging corrupt officials, predatory cartels, and the unforgiving elements. It is a story of extreme physical endurance, but also one of profound emotional resilience. Sanchez writes with a poetic urgency, stripping away the political rhetoric to show the beating hearts of the children who are often reduced to statistics. (Rated PG-13)

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HM-MARSH-D.       Folklore.   Orphanage.  Mystery

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Twelve-year-old Mary Hayes is a spitfire who has spent her life dodging the cruelties of the Buffalo Orphan Asylum. She dreams of a home, but when the mysterious Madame Z appears to adopt her, Mary quickly realizes this isn't a typical fairy tale. Madame Z lives in a house that seems to shift and whisper, filled with strange smells of earth and herbs, and a locked door by the staircase that Mary is strictly forbidden to open.

As Mary explores the nearby town of Iris and befriends a boy named Jacob, she uncovers the terrifying truth: Madame Z is actually Baba Yaga, the legendary witch of Russian folklore who has a hunger for children. To survive, Mary must use her wits, her knowledge of local history, and a touch of her own burgeoning magic. It is a suspenseful "cat-and-mouse" game where Mary must decide if she can change her own fate or if she is destined to become the witch's next meal. (Rated PG)

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SO-CROWE-M.    Civil Rights.  Courtroom.  History

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Sixteen-year-old Hiram Hillburn has always loved visiting his grandfather in Greenwood, Mississippi. Growing up in Arizona with his liberal father, Hiram remembers the South as a place of sweet tea and fishing. But when he returns for a summer visit in 1955, he finds the atmosphere transformed by racial tension following the Brown v. Board of Education decision.

Hiram’s nostalgia is shattered when he crosses paths with Emmett Till, a Black teenager from Chicago. Shortly after their meeting, Emmett is kidnapped and murdered for allegedly whistling at a white woman. As a witness to certain events leading up to the crime, Hiram is called to testify. He is forced to choose between his family’s ingrained prejudices and his own conscience. The novel culminants in the courtroom, where the acquittal of the murderers exposes the systemic injustice of the Jim Crow South and forces Hiram to realize that "the good old days" were built on a foundation of terror. (Rated PG-13)

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US-FLINN-B.     Abuse.     Accountability.  Journaling

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Nick Andreas has it all: he’s handsome, popular, wealthy, and dating the most beautiful girl in school, Caitlin. But Nick also has a violent temper, a trait he inherited from his abusive father. After a brutal incident where he hits Caitlin, Nick is slapped with a restraining order and a court-mandated anger management class.

The novel is told through Nick’s journal entries, which he is required to write for his class. He alternates between the "Before"—the story of his relationship with Caitlin and how his need for control turned into abuse—and the "After," where he sits in a room with other offenders, forced to confront the "monster" in the mirror. Alex Flinn doesn't make Nick a hero; instead, she shows the painful, ugly process of a young man trying to unlearn the only language of "love" he’s ever known. It is a stark look at the reality of teen dating violence and the long road to true accountability. (Rated PG-13)

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WB-MCLEMORE-W.    Magi.   Rivalry.  Romany-Culture

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For twenty years, the Palomas and the Corbeaus have been locked in a bitter rivalry. Both families are traveling performers, but their stages couldn't be more different: the Palomas are renowned for their mermaid acts in the water, while the Corbeaus are famous for their tightrope walking in the trees, wearing capes of real crow feathers. They share a deep-seated belief that a touch from the other family is a curse.

Lace Paloma has been taught to fear the "feathers" her whole life. But when a disaster at a local festival nearly kills her, she is saved by Cluck Corbeau—the "boy with the wings." As the two are forced to work together to survive the aftermath, they begin to realize that the stories they’ve been told about each other's "poison" might be the real curse. The novel is a lyrical exploration of identity, the weight of family expectations, and the magic that happens when you dare to cross the line between "us" and "them." (Rated PG-13)

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WB-MAFI-I.     Dystopian    Romance   Superpowers

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The Omega Point resistance has been destroyed, and Juliette is alone—or so she thinks. Having survived a literal shot to the heart, she wakes up in the headquarters of her former tormentor, Warner. But the world has changed. The Reestablishment’s grip is tightening, and the people Juliette cares about are scattered or presumed dead.

Juliette finally stops running from her power and decides to fight back. To take down the Supreme Commander and the oppressive regime, she must form an uneasy alliance with the very man she once feared. As she reunites with the survivors of the resistance, Juliette has to navigate a complicated love triangle and, more importantly, the burgeoning strength within herself. It is a high-stakes finale about reclaiming your narrative, embracing your "monsters," and the literal spark required to start a revolution. (Rated PG-13)

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HM-FIELDS-A.         Mystery.  Grief.   Community

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Anna Gonzalez was a high school student who seemingly had everything ahead of her until her life ended in a tragic, sudden act of violence. But the story isn't just about Anna; it is told through the voices of those she left behind—the friends who loved her, the classmates who envied her, and the people who might have known more than they let on.

The novel is structured as a series of interconnected poems and vignettes, creating a "mosaic" of a community in crisis. As the investigation into her death stalls, the people of her town are forced to confront their own roles in the culture of silence that allowed such a tragedy to happen. It is a haunting exploration of the "aftermath," focusing on the small, everyday details that become monuments to a person once they are gone. Ultimately, it is a story about the search for truth in a landscape of half-remembered conversations and hidden agendas. (Rated PG-13)

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HM-TIRADO-B.          Horror.    Bronx.      LGBTQ+

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For Raquel Espinoza, the Bronx is home, but lately, it’s felt like a hunting ground. People are disappearing, including the mother of her crush, Charlize. The rumors point to "The Echo," a sinister urban legend about a mysterious underground game that traps people in a distorted, nightmare version of the city.

When Charlize’s mother goes missing and Raquel’s own mother falls into a mysterious coma, Raquel and Charlize realize the Echo is real. To save their families, they must enter the game—a terrifying journey through the "shadow" Bronx that is fueled by the city's history of arson, displacement, and neglect. As they battle literal monsters, they discover that the Echo is powered by the collective trauma of the "Bronx is Burning" era of the 1970s. Raquel must face the ghosts of the past to ensure her community has a future. (Rated PG-13)

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US-STORK-M.   Mental Health.  Recovery.  Healing

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Vicky Cruz wakes up in the Lakeview Hospital psychiatric ward after a suicide attempt. She doesn’t know why she’s there, or why she failed, or even if she wants to try again. Surrounded by three other patients—the charismatic but troubled Gabriel, the fiery Mona, and the quiet Casper—Vicky begins to navigate a world where the only goal is survival.

Guided by a compassionate doctor, Vicky starts to unpack the "labels" she has lived under: the perfect daughter, the smart student, the girl who has everything. She realizes that her depression isn't a lack of willpower, but a biological and emotional shadow that has obscured her "inner light." As she develops deep bonds with her fellow patients, Vicky must decide if she is ready to leave the safety of the ward and face the pressures of her old life with new tools. Francisco X. Stork writes with a gentle authority, offering a story that is less about the "why" of the crisis and more about the "how" of the recovery. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-ANDREWS-H.       Road Trip.  Music.   Comedy.   Friendship

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Wes and Corey are two jazz-obsessed bass players stuck at a prestigious but soul-crushing summer music camp. They hate the pretentiousness, they hate the rigid rules, and they mostly hate how music is being turned into a competitive sport. After meeting Ash, a talented guitarist who shares their "hater" philosophy, the three of them decide to ditch the camp and go on a DIY tour.

The problem? They don’t have a band name, they don’t have a finished setlist, and they barely have a plan. As they travel across the country in a beat-up car, playing dive bars and sleeping in strange places, the trio discovers that "hating" everything is easy, but actually creating something you care about is terrifyingly hard. The novel is a raw, comedic look at the creative process, the messiness of teenage friendship, and the realization that even if you "hate" the world, you still have to find a way to live in it. (Rated R)

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EE-MACKLER-I.   High School.   Coming-of-age

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The story begins at freshman orientation, where five strangers—Zoe, Jake, Mia, Gregor, and Whitney—are thrown together in a small group. On a whim, they write letters to their future selves, seal them in an envelope, and promise to reunite on the eve of graduation to open them.

The novel then follows these five characters through every major milestone of high school. We see them navigate the "in-between" moments: the first day of school, the awkward parties, the crushing heartbreaks, and the unexpected tragedies. Zoe deals with the pressures of her mother's fame; Jake struggles with his identity and family expectations; Mia seeks a sense of belonging; Gregor navigates the complexities of first love; and Whitney faces a family crisis that changes everything. Over 1,460 days, their lives intersect in ways they never could have predicted, proving that while high school feels infinite while you're in it, it’s actually just the beginning. (Rated PG-13)

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US-WRIGHT-S      Mental Health     High School 

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The story centers on Addison, who is returning to high school after a suicide attempt. She is fragile, navigating the "stares and whispers" of her classmates while trying to find a reason to keep going. But the novel isn't just about Addison; it’s a "multi-perspective" narrative that follows four of her classmates—each of whom is fighting a secret battle of their own.

There is the "golden boy" athlete hiding a deep sense of inadequacy, the social media influencer whose life is a curated lie, and others who are dealing with grief, isolation, and the pressure to be perfect. As their lives intersect over the course of a single week, they realize that they are all "swimming in a sea of stars"—individual lights that are stronger when they are connected. It is a story about the power of small acts of kindness, the importance of reaching out, and the realization that no one is truly alone in their struggle. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-DEAVER-S.      Grief.   Chicago.   Friendship

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Morgan Ives and Jimmy Winter have been inseparable since they were babies. They aren’t just best friends; they are two halves of the same whole. Living in Chicago, they share everything: a love for theater, a specific shorthand language of inside jokes, and a shared dream of making it big on the stage. Their relationship is a "platonic ideal"—comfortable, constant, and seemingly invincible.

But in a single, shattering moment, Jimmy is killed in a car accident. Morgan is left to navigate a world that no longer makes sense without her "other half." The novel follows her raw, honest journey through the stages of grief—the denial, the anger, and the terrifying silence of an empty theater seat. It is a quiet but powerful exploration of how you learn to breathe again when the person who knew you best is gone. (Rated PG)

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HM-REARDON-D.       WWII.   Australia.   Diving

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It is 1942, and the world is at war. After the bombing of Darwin, sixteen-year-old Mick Heberlin is sent to the remote pearling town of Broome, Western Australia, to live with his eccentric aunt. Mick is haunted by the loss of his family and the terrifying reality of the Japanese advance, but Broome offers a strange, temporary sanctuary.

There, he meets a pair of misfits: Ty, a rebellious boy with a secret, and Kay, a girl who is as fearless as she is mysterious. Together, they become "The Deep Enders," diving into the dangerous, shark-infested waters of the Indian Ocean. But the peace of Broome is shattered when a fleet of Dutch refugee planes, carrying a fortune in "blood diamonds," is shot down by Japanese Zeros. Mick and his friends find themselves caught in a deadly hunt for the lost treasure, forced to navigate a landscape of spies, sunken wrecks, and the moral complexities of war. It is a gritty, fast-paced story of survival and the bonds formed in the deepest of waters. (Rated PG-13)

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WB-Gläser-B.   Portal Fantasy  Scotland.   Bibliophilia

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Amy Lenz is a seventeen-year-old girl who has always felt like an outsider in her modern life. When she and her mother travel to her grandmother’s ancestral home on the remote, fog-shrouded Scottish island of Stormsay, Amy discovers she belongs to an ancient family of "Book Jumpers."

As a Book Jumper, Amy has the rare ability to physically enter the world of any book she touches. She can have tea with the characters of Pride and Prejudice, wander the moors of Wuthering Heights, or dodge the Jabberwocky in Alice in Wonderland. But her dream-come-true turns into a nightmare when someone begins stealing the "heart" out of classic stories—changing the plots and causing the literary world to collapse. Alongside a fellow Jumper named Will, Amy must dive into the most dangerous chapters of literature to stop the thief before the stories we love disappear forever. It’s a fast-paced, romantic mystery that celebrates the enduring power of the classics. (Rated PG)

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Whimsy is a high school student back in the hospital for treatment of clinical depression. She feels as though she is "made of sorrow," but in the hospital, she meets a boy named Faerry who she recognizes has "magic in his marrow." When they are both released, they discover they are neighbors on Marsh Creek Lane, and their lives are inexplicably linked by a tragedy from eleven years ago that they’ve both been running from.

At the end of their street lies a dark, enchanted Forest that whispers to Whimsy and seems to hold the missing pieces of Faerry’s past. To heal, the two must enter the Forest—a physical manifestation of their depression—and face the monsters, fairy tales, and grief buried within. Drawing on Hoodoo traditions, folklore (like the legend of Mami Wata), and metaphors from Dante's Inferno, the novel follows their journey to discover that while a "bad year" or a "rough day" doesn't equal a bad life, the only way out of the darkness is to travel straight through it. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-BOULLEY-K.      Identity.  FBI Thriller.   STEM

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Eighteen-year-old Daunis Fontaine has never quite fit in. As a biracial, unenrolled tribal member, she feels like an outsider both in her hometown and on the nearby Ojibwe reservation. She puts her dreams of studying medicine on hold to care for her mother, but her life is upended when she witnesses a shocking murder.

Daunis is recruited by the FBI to go undercover to help investigate a lethal new drug track that is devastating her community. She uses her knowledge of chemistry and traditional Ojibwe plant medicine to track the source of the "meth" that is killing her people. But as the investigation deepens, Daunis realizes that the deception required for undercover work clashes with her traditional values. She must decide what it means to be a "Strong Firekeeper" and how far she is willing to go to protect her community, even if it means exposing secrets that people she loves have worked hard to hide. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-THEOHARIS-R.    Civil Rights. Boycott.  Activism 

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The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks (Young Readers Edition)

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The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks (Young Readers Edition)

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This biography dismantles the "tired seamstress" myth. It reveals that Rosa Parks was a seasoned organizer, the secretary of the local NAACP, and a woman who had spent years investigating cases of racial violence and supporting the defense of the Scottsboro Boys.

The book follows her journey from her childhood in Alabama—where she stayed up at night with her grandfather as he guarded their home with a shotgun against the KKK—to her move to Detroit, which she called "the Northern promised land that wasn't." In Detroit, she continued her "rebellious life" by fighting against housing discrimination and police brutality. This edition is specifically adapted to show young readers that "the Movement" wasn't a series of accidents, but a result of deliberate, often dangerous, work by people like Mrs. Parks who refused to stay silent. (Rated PG)

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US-ZHANG-C.      Depression.   NYC.   Philosophy

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Ocean Sun is a seventeen-year-old living a double life. To her immigrant mother, Ocean is a success story, heading off to a prestigious university on a scholarship. But in reality, Ocean is drowning. Severely depressed and unmoored, she decides to defer her admission without telling her mother, moving to New York City to live off her savings and try to find a reason to keep going.

While stranded in a subway station during a blackout, she meets Constantine Brave, a mysterious graffiti artist. The two begin an unconventional connection, communicating almost entirely through a shared Google Doc where they map out their thoughts on physics, mortality, philosophy, and the nature of reality. As Ocean navigates her new life with her roommates, Georgie and Tashya, she struggles to reconcile the "perfect" map her mother drew for her with the messy, uncertain territory she is actually inhabiting. It is a lyrical, meditative novel that doesn't shy away from the "ugly" parts of depression, ultimately exploring what it means to take control of your own destiny. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-JEAN-T.        Japan.   Identity.  Romance

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Izumi Tanaka has always felt like she didn't quite fit in her small, mostly white northern California town. Raised by a single mother, her Japanese heritage has always felt like a distant puzzle piece—until she discovers a clue to her father’s identity. It turns out her father isn't just some guy; he is the Crown Prince of Japan.

Suddenly, Izumi is whisked away to Tokyo to meet the father she never knew and claim her title as a princess. But life in the Imperial Palace isn't all tiaras and tea parties. Izumi has to navigate a world of strict traditions, a "bitchy" press corps, and a handsome but grumpy bodyguard named Akio who seems determined to keep her from making any mistakes. As she struggles to learn the language and the customs, Izumi has to decide if being a princess is her true destiny or if she’s just traded one version of not fitting in for another. It’s a witty, heartfelt story about heritage, belonging, and the courage to define yourself. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-NAMEY-C.    Romance.  Cuban Culture.  Baking

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A Cuban Girl's Guide to Tea and Tomorrow

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A Cuban Girl's Guide to Tea and Tomorrow

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Lila Reyes had her life perfectly planned: graduate high school, take over her abuela’s Cuban bakery in Miami, and live happily ever after with her boyfriend. But in a brutal "trifecta" of heartbreak, her grandmother passes away, her boyfriend breaks up with her, and her best friend moves on without her. Concerned for her mental health, Lila’s parents send her away for the summer to Winchester, England, to stay with family friends.

Initially, Lila is miserable in the "gray" English weather, missing the neon sun of Miami. However, things begin to change when she meets Orion Maxwell, a charming boy who works in a local tea shop. Orion becomes her unofficial tour guide, helping her rediscover her passion for baking by introducing her to English ingredients. As Lila blends her Cuban recipes with British staples, she realizes that a change of scenery isn't a betrayal of her old life, but a chance to decide who she wants to be on her own terms. It’s a "coming-of-age" story that tastes like pastelitos and Earl Grey tea. (Rated PG)

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SO-FRANK-A.      Holocaust   Non-fiction, World War II

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In 1942, as the Nazis occupied the Netherlands, thirteen-year-old Anne Frank and her family went into hiding to escape arrest. For two years, they lived in the "Secret Annex"—a cramped set of rooms hidden behind a movable bookcase in her father’s office building in Amsterdam. They shared this space with four other people, living in constant fear of discovery, unable to make a sound during the day.

Anne’s diary, which she addressed to an imaginary friend named "Kitty," became her confidante. In it, she recorded the mundane frustrations of living in close quarters, her turbulent relationship with her mother, her budding feelings for Peter van Pels, and her profound reflections on human nature. Despite the suffocating circumstances, Anne’s writing is filled with wit, honesty, and a startlingly mature philosophy. The diary ends abruptly in August 1944 when the Annex was betrayed and its inhabitants were sent to concentration camps. Anne died in Bergen-Belsen in 1945, but her voice survived through the red-checked notebook her father, Otto, published after the war. (Rated PG)

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EE-WILLIAMSON-A.    Transgender.   UK.    Identity

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David Piper has always been an outsider. His parents think he’s gay, and the school bullies think he’s a freak, but David has a secret he’s only shared with two people: he wants to be a girl. Across the school, Leo Denton has just transferred in with one goal—to be invisible. Leo is tough, silent, and carries a heavy secret of his own that he’s desperate to keep buried.

When Leo stands up for David against a bully, an unlikely friendship begins to form. As they grow closer, the "normal" lives they’ve both tried so hard to project begin to crack. David finally begins the daunting process of coming out as transgender, while Leo’s past eventually catches up with him in a way that forces him to confront the very thing he was running from. The novel is a dual-perspective narrative that handles the transition process, family dynamics, and the search for identity with incredible grace and honesty. It’s a story that reminds us that "normal" is just a social construct, and the bravest thing anyone can do is live their truth. (Rated PG-13)

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HM-BOYNE-B.    Holocaust.  WWII.   Historical Fiction 

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The story is set in 1942 and follows nine-year-old Bruno, the son of a high-ranking Nazi officer. When his father is promoted, the family moves from their comfortable home in Berlin to a desolate place Bruno calls "Out-With." From his bedroom window, Bruno can see a high wire fence and, beyond it, hundreds of people wearing what he thinks are "striped pajamas."

Bored and lonely, Bruno ignores his parents' strict orders not to explore the back garden. He walks along the fence until he meets Shmuel, a boy his own age who lives on the other side. Shmuel is thin, grey-faced, and wears the same striped outfit as everyone else. Despite the physical barrier between them, a secret friendship develops. Bruno brings Shmuel food and they talk for hours, though Bruno remains tragically oblivious to the true nature of the camp. Their friendship leads to a final, heart-wrenching decision when Bruno decides to crawl under the fence to help Shmuel find his missing father, resulting in a conclusion that serves as a chilling reminder of the reach of hatred. (Rated PG-13)

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US-MIKAELSEN-T.    Guatemala  Refugees.  Survival

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Gabi is a young Maya girl living in a remote mountain village in Guatemala. She is known as "Tree Girl" because she loves to climb the high branches of the trees to see the world beyond her reach. But her perspective changes forever when the military arrives, beginning a scorched-earth campaign against the indigenous Maya people.

From her hiding place high in the trees, Gabi witnesses the unthinkable destruction of her village and the massacre of her family and neighbors. She becomes a refugee, fleeing through the jungle toward the Mexican border. Along the way, she encounters other survivors and must navigate the physical dangers of the wilderness and the psychological trauma of what she has seen. The novel follows her journey from a girl who climbed trees for fun to a young woman who uses those same trees to survive, eventually finding her voice to tell the story of those who were silenced. It is a brutal, honest, and ultimately redemptive look at a frequently overlooked chapter of history. (Rated PG-13)

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US-CULLEY-N.  Verse.  Adoption.  Maine.  Sisterhood

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Rynn is a sixteen-year-old girl living on a garlic farm in Maine. She loves her adoptive parents and the life they’ve built, but she is haunted by the "ghosts" of her past—specifically the birth mother she never knew and the younger sister she was separated from. All she has is a name from her past and the knowledge that she was born into a different life.

When Rynn discovers she has a biological sister named Sora who is living in a nearby town, she decides to seek her out. As Rynn navigates the complexities of her dual identity, she must balance her loyalty to the parents who raised her with the magnetic pull of the family she lost. The novel explores themes of "nature vs. nurture," the definition of family, and the way secrets can both protect and isolate us. It is a gentle but powerful exploration of adoption and the courage it takes to claim your own story. (Rated PG)

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US-CADOW-G.    Opioid Crisis.  Dog Story.  Vermont

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Ian Gray is a resourceful teenager living in rural Vermont, trying to keep his head above water while his mother struggles with an opioid addiction. His life is a constant cycle of "making do"—fixing old engines, stacking wood, and trying to stay in school while his home life crumbles.

Everything changes when he adopts Gather, a giant, scruffy dog who is just as much of a misfit as Ian is. Gather becomes Ian’s anchor as his mother’s addiction worsens and the state eventually gets involved. When Ian is forced to flee into the harsh Vermont wilderness to avoid the foster care system and keep his dog, the story becomes a visceral survival tale. It’s not just about surviving the cold, though; it’s about Ian "gathering" the pieces of a community—neighbors, teachers, and friends—who want to help him if he can only learn to let them in. The narrative voice is authentic and sharp, capturing the specific pride and pain of the rural working class. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-TALLEY-W.     Genderqueer.   Identity.   LGBTQ+

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Toni and Gretchen have been the "it" couple of their high school—the perfect queer duo who everyone assumes will be together forever. But as they head off to separate colleges (Toni to Harvard and Gretchen to NYU), their relationship is put to the ultimate test.

Toni, who identifies as genderqueer, finally finds a community of like-minded people and begins to explore a more authentic self, moving away from the "lesbian" label they shared with Gretchen. Meanwhile, Gretchen is struggling to find her own identity outside of being "Toni’s girlfriend" while navigating a new city and a new social circle. The novel alternates between their perspectives, showing the messy, painful, and beautiful reality of two people trying to hold onto their past while hurtling toward different futures. It’s a story about the fluidity of identity and the difficult realization that sometimes, loving someone means letting them become who they are supposed to be—even if that means leaving the "us" behind. (Rated PG-13)

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US-LAURE-T.       Family Secrets.   Resilience

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Seventeen-year-old Lucille is a "fixer." When her father has a mental breakdown and her mother leaves on a "vacation" that she never returns from, Lucille is left alone to care for her little sister, Wren. She is determined to keep their lives appearing normal so that social services won't separate them. She works a job under the table, stretches every dollar for groceries, and navigates the terrifying reality of being an "orphan" while her parents are technically still alive.

Amidst this survival story, Lucille finds herself falling for Digby, her best friend’s twin brother. The romance is complicated—Digby is already in a relationship—but he becomes a vital source of light in her darkening world. The novel isn't just about the struggle; it’s about the "raging light" of first love and the unexpected kindness of neighbors. It explores the blurred lines between childhood and adulthood, and the moment you realize that "home" isn't a place or a person, but the resilience you carry within yourself. (Rated PG-13)

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US-HOLT-H.    Verse,     Medical Drama,    Probation

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Timothy is a good kid who did a bad thing for a "good" reason. After stealing a wallet to pay for his chronically ill baby brother’s incredibly expensive medical supplies, Timothy is placed under house arrest for a year. He has a probation officer, a therapist he doesn't want to talk to, and a mountain of court-mandated journals he has to fill.

The novel is the collection of those journals. Through his writing, we see the crushing weight of his reality: his father has walked out, his mother is exhausted and drowning in debt, and his brother, Levi, needs constant care just to breathe. Timothy is a "fixer" in a situation that feels unfixable. As the year progresses, he must navigate the strict rules of his probation while fighting to get Levi the life-saving help he needs. It’s a raw, touching, and often funny look at the lengths a person will go to for the people they love, and how "the law" doesn't always account for "the heart." (Rated PG)

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SO-REYNOLDS-A.   Police Brutality.     Allyship

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The story centers on an incident at a corner store. Rashad Butler, a Black teenager and ROTC member, is minding his own business when he is mistaken for a shoplifter and brutally beaten by a police officer. Quinn Collins, a white classmate of Rashad’s, witnesses the entire thing from a distance.

The perspective shifts between the two boys. Rashad is in the hospital, dealing with his physical injuries and the sudden, unwanted fame of being a "symbol" of a movement. Quinn is struggling with a crisis of conscience; the officer who beat Rashad is a family friend and a mentor who helped raise him after his father died in Afghanistan. As the school and the town split down racial lines, both boys must decide where they stand. For Rashad, it’s about finding the courage to be seen; for Quinn, it’s about realizing that "not taking a side" is, in itself, a choice. It is a powerful, dual-narrative look at privilege, prejudice, and the complicated path toward true allyship. (Rated PG-13)

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US-REYNOLDS-L.  Poetry.  Cycle of Violence.  Grief

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Fifteen-year-old Will is grieving. His older brother, Shawn, has just been shot and killed. In Will’s neighborhood, there are The Rules:

1. No crying.

2. No snitching.

3. Always seek revenge.

Will reaches under Shawn’s bed, finds his brother’s gun, and tucks it into his waistband. He steps into the elevator, heading down to find the person he believes pulled the trigger. But as the elevator stops at each floor on the way to the lobby, a different person from Will’s past—all of whom are dead—gets on.

Each "ghost" has a story to tell, and each one challenges Will’s resolve. From his Uncle Mark to his father and even a childhood friend, the visitors force Will to look at the cycle of violence he is about to perpetuate. By the time the elevator reaches the ground floor and the doors open, Will is faced with a question that will define the rest of his life. It is a visceral, haunting exploration of "street justice" and the heavy burden of grief. (Rated PG-13)

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WB-MORROW-S.    Sirens.    Portland  Black Girl Magic

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In an alternate Portland, Oregon, sirens are real, but they are also feared and silenced. Tavia is a siren who must hide her magical voice at all costs; in this world, a Black girl with the power to captivate with her speech is seen as a threat to be neutralized. Her best friend (and "sister" by choice), Effie, is dealing with her own mysteries—she’s haunted by literal ghosts and a strange skin condition that makes her feel like she’s turning into something else entirely.

As the city erupts in protest following the trial of a prominent socialite who murdered a Black siren, Tavia accidentally lets her voice slip during a police stop. The fallout forces both girls to stop hiding. While Tavia learns to harness the power of her song, Effie discovers her own magical heritage rooted in African folklore. The novel is a powerful allegory for the "strong Black woman" trope, the policing of Black voices, and the life-saving power of female friendship. It’s a story where the monsters aren't just the ones with scales—they're the ones holding the cameras and the handcuffs. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-SILVERA-T.    Fantasy.   LGBTQ+.  New York City

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In a near-future New York City, a service called Death-Cast calls people to let them know they will die within the next twenty-four hours. They don't tell you how or exactly when, just that your time is up. On September 5th, shortly after midnight, two strangers—Mateo Torrez and Rufus Emeterio—receive the fateful call.

Mateo is a shut-in who is terrified of the world, while Rufus is a tough kid with a troubled past. Seeking a final connection, they both download the "Last Friend" app and find each other. What follows is an extraordinary day of adventure, honesty, and burgeoning love. As they traverse the city to pack a lifetime of experiences into their "End Day," they help each other confront their fears and regrets. The title isn't a spoiler; it’s a promise that forces the reader to focus on the journey rather than the destination. It’s a heartbreaking reminder that there is no life without death, and no love without loss. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-LEE-D.      Journalism.   Atlanta.  Secret Identity, 

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By day, Jo Kuan works as a lady's maid for the cruel daughter of one of Atlanta's wealthiest men. By night, she lives in a secret, basement-level apartment (a remnant of the Underground Railroad) beneath the office of a struggling newspaper. Frustrated by the social injustices she sees every day as a Chinese American woman in 1890s Georgia, Jo begins writing an anonymous advice column under the pseudonym "Miss Sweetie."

"Miss Sweetie" becomes a sensation, challenging the city’s views on race, gender, and class with a biting wit that keeps Atlanta talking. But as her column’s popularity grows, so does the risk of Jo being discovered. When she starts investigating her own mysterious past—including the identity of the parents who abandoned her—she uncovers secrets that link her to the city's most powerful families. Set against the backdrop of the suffragist movement and the rising tensions of the Jim Crow era, it’s a story about a girl who refuses to stay in the shadows and uses her voice to demand a seat at the table. (Rated PG-13)

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US-CHEE-W. WWII.  Japanese-American Narrative

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The story follows a tight-knit group of Nisei—second-generation Japanese American teens—growing up in San Francisco. Their lives are a whirlwind of city streets, school, and dreams for the future until the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Suddenly, they are viewed as "enemy aliens" in their own country. Forced from their homes with only what they can carry, the group is scattered across different incarceration camps, from the muddy stalls of Tanforan to the desolate barracks of Topaz.

Each chapter follows a different teen, showing the diverse ways they react to their imprisonment: some lean into anger and rebellion, others try to prove their "American-ness" by enlisting in the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, and some simply try to maintain a sense of normal teenage life behind barbed wire. Despite the government's attempts to strip them of their dignity and citizenship, their bond remains the one thing they refuse to let go. It is a raw, cinematic, and deeply personal account of a shameful period in American history, told by the young people who lived through it. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-MOORE-D.    Memoir.   Baltimore.  Mentorship

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The book tells the true story of two boys from the same neighborhood in Baltimore, both named Wes Moore, and both born just blocks apart within a year of each other. Their lives start with striking similarities: both grew up fatherless in tough neighborhoods, struggled with school, and had early run-ins with the law.

However, as they grew older, their paths diverged radically. One Wes Moore became a Rhodes Scholar, a decorated combat veteran, and eventually the Governor of Maryland. The "other" Wes Moore is currently serving a life sentence in prison for his role in a robbery that left a police officer dead. Through a series of letters and prison visits, the author explores the "forks in the road" that led to these two different fates. He candidly reflects on how his own mother’s intervention and the support of mentors saved him, while the other Wes fell deeper into the street life. It is a haunting, introspective look at how destiny is often a mix of personal choice and the expectations—or lack thereof—placed upon us by the world. (Rated PG)

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SO-ALIFIRENKA-I.   Memoir, Zimbabwe, Friendship

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I Will Always Write Back: How One Letter Changed Two Lives

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I Will Always Write Back: How One Letter Changed Two Lives

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The story begins in 1997 with a simple pen-pal assignment in a Pennsylvania classroom. Twelve-year-old Caitlin Alifirenka chooses a country she’s never heard of—Zimbabwe—and sends a letter to a boy named Martin Ganda. What follows is a correspondence that spans six years and transforms both of them.

While Caitlin shares stories of typical American teenage life (shopping, boys, and school dances), Martin’s letters reveal a different reality. As Zimbabwe’s economy collapses, Martin’s family falls into extreme poverty. Despite being a top student, he faces the prospect of dropping out because his family cannot afford school fees. When Caitlin realizes the gravity of Martin's situation, she begins sending her babysitting money, and eventually, her entire family rallies to support him. Their bond transcends distance and socioeconomic status, leading to a life-changing conclusion where Martin earns a full scholarship to a university in the U.S. It is a powerful testament to the impact of empathy and the idea that one person truly can make a difference. (Rated PG)

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I Will Always Write Back: How One Letter Changed Two Lives

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EE-THOMAS-C. Teen pregnancy.   Violence.  Gangs

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Maverick Carter is seventeen and doing what he has to do to help his mom while his father is in prison. As a member of the King Lords, "what he has to do" involves dealing. Life is uncomplicated—until Maverick finds out he’s a father. Suddenly, he has a baby, Seven, who depends on him for everything. The transition from a carefree teenager to a young father is jarring, and Maverick realizes that the street life and fatherhood don't mix well.

When he’s offered a chance to go straight, he takes it, but leaving the gang isn't as simple as just walking away. Loyalty is everything in Garden Heights, and the King Lords don't take kindly to people moving on. Through the guidance of his neighbor, Mr. Wyatt, and the blooming of his own literal and metaphorical garden, Maverick begins to understand that a "real man" isn't defined by his toughness, but by his responsibility and his choices. It is a raw, heart-wrenching, and ultimately hopeful origin story of the man we see in The Hate U Give. (Rated PG-13)

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HM-GODBERSEN-W. Chicago Fire Forbidden Romance

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Set in 1871 Chicago, the story follows Emmeline Carter, a young woman on the brink of marrying into one of the city's most powerful and wealthy families. Her engagement to the dashing Anders—and the security it brings—is exactly what her social-climbing mother has always wanted. However, Emmeline’s heart is elsewhere: she is secretly in love with her childhood friend, Tom, who comes from a much humbler background.

As the heat of the summer reaches a breaking point, the city is a literal tinderbox of dry wood and social tension. When the Great Chicago Fire breaks out, the rigid class structures of the city crumble alongside the buildings. Amidst the chaos of the inferno, Emmeline must navigate the burning streets to save the people she loves, forced to choose between the life she was "supposed" to have and the one her heart actually wants. The fire acts as a catalyst, stripping away the pretenses of the Gilded Age and revealing the true character of everyone caught in its path. It is a lush, atmospheric tale of forbidden love and survival set against one of the most famous disasters in American history. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-HUEY-B.  WWII. Photography, Japanese American 

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It is 1941 on Linna Island, Washington, and Sam Sakamoto is a teenager who dreams of being a photographer. She spends her days capturing the beauty of the island and the quiet moments of her Japanese American family’s life. However, her world is shattered after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Almost overnight, the "wide silk sky" she loves feels like it's closing in. Racism and suspicion spread through her small town like wildfire, and Sam is forced to document a much darker reality: the vandalism of her father’s farm, the betrayal of friends, and the looming threat of Executive Order 9066.

Sam must decide what to do with her talent. Does she hide her camera to stay safe, or does she use her lens to bear witness to the injustice her community is facing before they are forcibly removed to internment camps? The novel is a poignant look at the power of art as resistance and the devastating impact of war-time hysteria on innocent citizens. It highlights a dark chapter of American history through the eyes of a girl who refused to let her family's humanity be erased. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-DRAPER-D.  Resilience. Senior Year. Warning Signs

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Hazelwood High Trilogy- Darkness Before Dawn

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Hazelwood High Trilogy- Darkness Before Dawn

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Keisha Cohen is finally a senior, but she is haunted by the tragedies of her past—most notably the suicide of her ex-boyfriend, Andy Jackson. Just as she begins to feel like she can move forward and breathe again, a charming and persistent new track coach, Jonathan Hathaway, enters her life. He is older, handsome, and gives Keisha the adult attention she craves, making her feel special and sophisticated. However, what starts as a flattering connection quickly spirals into a predatory and dangerous situation.

While Keisha navigates this grooming, she also struggles to support her friends through their own cycles of grief and recovery. The novel explores the "darkness" of manipulation and the "dawn" of finding the strength to speak out. Keisha must learn to trust her instincts and rely on her true support system to survive a different kind of trauma. It is a cautionary, high-stakes story about the vulnerability that follows grief and the resilience required to step into the light. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-STONE-G.   Global Education.   Activism

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This book tells the true stories of several girls from around the globe—from Cambodia and Haiti to Ethiopia and Peru—who face daunting barriers to education, including child marriage, domestic slavery, and extreme poverty. Rather than focusing solely on their struggles, Stone highlights their incredible resilience and the "ripple effect" that occurs when a girl is educated: she is more likely to marry later, have a smaller family, earn higher wages, and lift her entire community out of poverty.

The narrative combines expanded storytelling from the Girl Rising film with additional facts, infographics, and striking photographs. It breaks down the systemic obstacles that keep 62 million girls worldwide out of school and provides a roadmap for how readers can contribute to the cause. It is an inspiring, eye-opening look at how one girl with a book can truly change the world. (Rated PG)

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SO-GARRETT-F.  HIV Awareness. Theater. Romance

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Simone Thibodeaux is starting over at a new private school, and she has a strict plan: keep her head down, direct the school musical, and keep her HIV-positive status a total secret. After being forced out of her last school by cruel rumors and bullying, Simone just wants to be a "normal" teenager who isn't defined by a diagnosis she’s had since birth. But then she meets Miles, a guy who makes her heart skip a beat and makes her want to break all her own rules.

As their relationship deepens, the pressure of her secret becomes a heavy burden. Just as she’s considering "full disclosure" to Miles, an anonymous blackmailer sends her a note threatening to out her to the entire school. Simone is forced to navigate the terrifying reality of stigma while deciding whether to hide again or stand tall in her truth. The novel is a vibrant, sex-positive, and honest look at identity, first love, and the importance of reproductive health education. It’s a story about reclaiming your narrative and realizing that you are worthy of love and respect, exactly as you are. (Rated PG-13)

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US-STONE-D.   Justice.  Letters.  Social Commentary

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Justyce McAllister is an honor student, a college-bound senior, and a "good kid" who has done everything right. But none of that matters when he is racially profiled, handcuffed, and detained by police while simply trying to help his ex-girlfriend. Shaken by the experience and the realization that his academic success doesn't protect him from prejudice, Justyce begins a journal of letters to the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He asks himself: What would Martin do? As Justyce navigates life at his predominantly white private school, he faces microaggressions from classmates and a growing distance from his old neighborhood. When a tragic encounter with an off-duty police officer results in a fatal shooting, Justyce is thrust into the center of a national media storm. He must grapple with his own anger, his faith in the "American Dream," and the heavy reality of being a Black man in a justice system that feels stacked against him. The novel is told through a mix of traditional narrative, Justyce’s poignant letters to "Martin," and news transcripts, creating a visceral and urgent reading experience. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-THOMAS-O.  Hip-Hop    Garden Heights.  Ambition

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nderground hip-hop legend who died right before he hit it big, she has massive shoes to fill. But Bri isn’t just rapping for fame; she’s rapping for survival. When her mother loses her job and the bills start piling up, "making it" becomes a necessity to keep her family from being evicted.

After a humiliating incident at school involving racial profiling by security guards, Bri pours her frustration into a song that goes viral for all the wrong reasons. Suddenly, she is labeled a "hoodlum" and a "menace" by the media. She faces a choice: play into the stereotype the industry wants to sell, or stay true to her own voice even if it costs her the big break she desperately needs. The novel is a pulse-pounding tribute to the power of hip-hop as a tool for resistance and a deeply personal look at a girl trying to find her identity while the world tries to define her. (Rated PG-13)

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WB-CAPRARA-S.    Mythology.    Feminist Retelling

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Arachne is a girl born into a world of dust and struggle, but she possesses a singular, world-altering gift: the ability to weave. Her tapestries are so vivid and true that they begin to threaten the carefully curated narratives of the gods on Olympus. As Arachne’s fame grows, she catches the attention of Athena, the goddess of wisdom and war, leading to a legendary confrontation. However, in this version of the story, Arachne isn't just a "boastful girl"—she is a defiant artist who refuses to let the gods dictate her worth or her story.

The novel explores the cost of creativity and the danger of speaking truth to power. While the classic myth ends with a punishment, Spin reframes Arachne’s transformation into a spider not as a curse of shame, but as an act of survival and ultimate metamorphosis. Written in lyrical, evocative prose, the story challenges the reader to look past the "official" myths to find the human heart beating underneath the silk. It is a stunning exploration of how women’s voices have been suppressed throughout history and the power it takes to finally break the silence. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-JOHNSON-I.    Mystery.  Social Justice.  Portland

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Andre Jackson is a teenager who has just been released from a juvenile detention center for a crime he didn’t commit. Returning to his Portland neighborhood, he finds everything has changed: the COVID-19 pandemic has shifted the social landscape, his community is being rapidly gentrified, and his best friend, Eric, has mysteriously vanished. To make matters worse, Eric’s family—who are white and influential—seem strangely unconcerned about his disappearance, and the police aren't looking for him. Andre realizes that as a Black boy recently caught in the system, he is "invisible" to the authorities unless he's being viewed as a suspect.

Determined to find his friend and clear his own name, Andre launches his own investigation. He uncovers a web of secrets involving high-level corruption, neighborhood history, and the harsh realities of the "school-to-prison pipeline." The story is a tense race against time that explores how society chooses who to protect and who to ignore. Andre’s journey is one of reclaiming his identity and his voice in a world that would rather keep him silenced. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-HO-S.       Asian American.   Grief.    Activism

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Maybelline Chen is a Taiwanese-American teen who has always lived in the shadow of her "perfect" older brother, Danny, a star student headed for Princeton. When Danny dies by suicide, May’s world is shattered. The tragedy is compounded when a prominent local businessman makes racist public comments, blaming "tiger parents" and Asian American achievement culture for the pressures that led to Danny's death. As her community retreats into a protective but suffocating silence to avoid further scrutiny, May decides she can no longer stay quiet. She begins to use her writing to challenge the harmful stereotypes and the "model minority" narrative that erases the individuality and struggles of Asian Americans. Along the way, she navigates the complexities of her parents' grief and her own blossoming friendship with a Black classmate, which opens her eyes to the intersections of racism and the importance of cross-cultural solidarity. It is a story about the weight of expectations, the danger of silence, and the revolutionary act of speaking your truth. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-NIVEN-A.      Mental Health.   Grief.    Indiana

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The story follows two teenagers, Theodore Finch and Violet Markey, who meet on the ledge of their school’s bell tower. While it’s unclear who saves whom, they begin an unlikely partnership for a school project to discover the "natural wonders" of their home state, Indiana. Violet is grieving the death of her sister and has stopped living her life, while Finch is obsessed with death and struggles with undiagnosed bipolar disorder, constantly searching for a way to stay "awake" and present. As they wander through quirky roadside attractions and forgotten landscapes, they fall in love and find a sense of belonging in each other. However, while Violet begins to heal and look toward the future, Finch’s world starts to shrink as his mental health spirals. The novel is a poignant and raw exploration of grief, the stigma of mental illness, and the "bright places" people find even in their darkest times. It serves as a stark reminder that even the most vibrant spirits can struggle with invisible battles. (Rated PG-13)

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US-BROWN-B.  Magical Realism. Trauma.  Resilience

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Echo Brown is a "wizard" from the East Side, where the air is thick with "the veil"—a heavy, dark mist of poverty, addiction, and depression that threatens to swallow everyone she loves. Echo discovers that she has the power to see this darkness and, more importantly, the ability to transform it through her own internal magic. When she is accepted into a prestigious white school on the West Side, she finds herself constantly traveling between two worlds: one where she is surrounded by the crushing struggle of her home life, and another where she feels like an invisible outsider. As she navigates the pain of sexual trauma and the complexities of her mother’s addiction, Echo must learn to use her "unlimited" power to heal herself without losing her soul to the darkness. The story brilliantly blends the literal with the metaphorical, showing how hope and resilience function as actual magic in the face of systemic oppression. It is a raw, lyrical, and ultimately triumphant exploration of a young woman’s journey to save her own life. (Rated R)

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EE-REYNOLDS-T.   Intimacy  Consent, Coming-of-age

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The entire novel takes place in the agonizing, exhilarating, and nervous span of time leading up to Neon’s first time having sex with his girlfriend, Aria. As the clock ticks down, the narrative dives into Neon’s internal monologue—a whirlwind of anxiety, preparation, and deep affection. He wants everything to be perfect, from the way he smells to the "adult" level of maturity he thinks he needs to project. However, beneath the humor of his frantic preparations (like his various hygiene rituals) lies a tender and honest exploration of consent, masculinity, and the vulnerability of young love. Reynolds captures the sensory details of the moment—the sound of a heartbeat, the texture of a carpet—to ground the reader in Neon's intense reality. The story isn't just about the physical act; it’s about the emotional weight of intimacy and the clumsy, beautiful process of growing up. It celebrates a young Black man being allowed to be sensitive, nervous, and deeply respectful. By the end of those twenty-four seconds, Neon realizes that being "ready" is less about a checklist and more about the genuine connection between two people. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-MOTT-H.    Identity.   Surrealism.   Metafiction

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The story follows an unnamed Black author who is embarking on a cross-country publicity tour for his new best-selling novel. As he moves through a blur of hotel rooms and interviews, he is frequently visited by "The Kid," a mysterious, possibly imaginary young boy who only he can see. Interwoven with the author's surreal journey is the story of Soot, a young Black boy growing up in the rural South, whose parents try to teach him how to be "invisible" to stay safe in a dangerous world. As these narratives collide, the book explores the tragic reality of police violence and the psychological toll of racism in America. The author must eventually stop running from his own past and confront the truth of what happened to the people he left behind. Mott uses a unique blend of humor and tragedy to pull the reader into the protagonist's fractured state of mind. It is a profound meditation on what it means to be Black in America and the power of stories to both hide and reveal the truth. Ultimately, it is a deeply moving tribute to those whose stories have been cut short. (Rated R)

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US-MACHIAS-F.      Anxiety.    Disability.    Friendship

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Avery and Sarah are two polar opposites who find their lives unexpectedly intertwined following a traumatic "near-miss" incident at their school. Avery is a daredevil who lives for the "fight" response, using physical risk and bravado to mask the deep-seated anxiety and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome she manages daily. Sarah, on the other hand, is a "flight" responder—a girl struggling with severe panic attacks and a crushing need for safety and predictability. As the school implements new security measures that heightens everyone’s stress, the two girls are forced to work together on a project, leading to a profound and life-changing friendship. Through their bond, they begin to see that their reactions to fear aren't weaknesses, but different ways the brain tries to protect the heart. The narrative alternates between their perspectives, exploring themes of disability, mental health, and the courage it takes to be vulnerable. Together, they learn to navigate a world that feels increasingly dangerous by leaning on one another for strength. It is a powerful story about finding balance, reclaiming your sense of safety, and the "unbreakable spirit" required to face your fears head-on. (Rated PG-13)

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SO-ENGLE-W.   Rewilding.  Conservation.   Romance

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Ana and Leandro are two teenagers living in California who both feel like outsiders in their own lives. Ana is a girl of Cuban heritage who finds peace in the natural world, while Leandro is a refugee who has fled violence and is trying to find his footing in a new country. They meet and bond over a shared passion for "rewilding" the earth, specifically focusing on creating a safe wildlife corridor for mountain lions. As they work together to protect the wilderness, they find themselves falling in love and healing from their individual past traumas. The story is told through poignant verse, alternating between their perspectives and even occasionally including the "voice" of the forest animals. They must navigate family expectations, the challenges of their different backgrounds, and the urgent need to save the planet’s biodiversity. Their journey highlights the deep connection between the health of the environment and the resilience of the human heart. Ultimately, it is a hopeful tale about dreaming of a better, wilder future where both nature and people can thrive. (Rated PG)

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EE-IXTA-S.          Oakland.   Friendship.    Latinx

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Belén Ordoñez is a sharp-tongued high school senior living in East Oakland, just trying to survive the chaos of her final year. Her home life is a mess—her father has walked out, leaving her mother in a deep depression, and the weight of "being good" feels like a trap. When her best friend Leti becomes pregnant, Belén steps up to support her, even as she feels her own future slipping through her fingers. She finds herself caught in a whirlwind of complicated romance, academic pressure, and the heavy expectations of her traditional Mexican-American community. To cope with the stress, Belén uses humor and a tough exterior, but underneath, she is grappling with deep-seated questions about self-worth and generational trauma. The story explores the "serious" side of teenage life, from mental health struggles to the limitations placed on young women of color. Ultimately, Belén must decide if she is going to let her circumstances define her or if she has the strength to shout back at the world. It is a powerful, unapologetic look at friendship, family loyalty, and the messy path to adulthood. (Rated PG-13)

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GN-TEER-B.        Heritage.   Family.    Renovation

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Almira is a biracial teenager who spends the summer with her estranged Guatemalan father, Xavier, while her mother is away for work. The setting is her father’s crumbling, historic brownstone, which he is painstakingly trying to renovate by himself. At first, Almira feels like a complete outsider, struggling with a language barrier and a father she barely knows. However, as she begins to help with the house repairs, she uncovers layers of her family’s history hidden within the walls and the neighborhood. Through conversations with neighbors and her father’s quiet guidance, she starts to connect with her Maya heritage and the vibrant culture she never fully understood. The graphic novel uses a warm, expressive color palette to highlight the literal and figurative "building" of a relationship between father and daughter. It is a gentle, character-driven story that addresses the complexities of identity and the hard work required to mend broken bonds. By the end of the summer, the brownstone becomes more than just a house; it represents Almira’s newfound sense of belonging and self. (Rated G)

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US-ZOBOI-P.          Injustice.  Verse.     Art

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Amal Shahid is a sixteen-year-old artist and poet whose life is shattered when a neighborhood scuffle in a gentrifying area turns into a tragedy. Despite his innocence, Amal is convicted of a crime he didn’t commit and is sent to a juvenile detention center. The story, told entirely in searing verse, captures his journey through a system designed to strip away his humanity and his voice. While incarcerated, Amal struggles against the despair of his environment and the crushing weight of a "thug" label he never asked for. He turns to his art—his poetry and his sketches—as a way to maintain his sense of self and to find a flicker of hope in the darkness. Through his words, he explores the systemic injustices that target young Black men and the power of the creative spirit to transcend prison walls. His mother’s unwavering support and his own growing resilience become his lifeline as he fights to prove that his story isn't over. Ultimately, it is a staggering portrait of a young man who uses his "punching the air" not as an act of violence, but as an act of artistic and spiritual survival. (Rated PG-13)

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GN-TODD-T.     Drawing.  Moving.   Confidence

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Cecil is a shy, talented artist who has just moved from Florida to Massachusetts, leaving behind everything familiar for a brand-new start. Middle school is daunting enough, but Cecil feels the added pressure of trying to fit into a community where he doesn't quite know where he belongs. His passion for drawing is his sanctuary, yet he is too nervous to share his work with others or even speak up in class. As he navigates the social hierarchies of his new school, he meets a variety of characters who challenge him to step out of his comfort zone and embrace his identity. The graphic novel format uses vibrant illustrations to show the contrast between Cecil’s quiet exterior and his colorful, imaginative inner world. Throughout the story, Cecil learns that being "timid" isn't a permanent state and that his art can be a bridge to making real friends. It is a relatable, heartwarming tale about overcoming social anxiety and the courage it takes to be yourself in a world that feels very loud. Ultimately, it celebrates the power of creativity as a tool for self-discovery and connection. (Rated G)

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SO-FARUQI-G.   Justice.   Pakistani-American.  Verse

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Aaliyah is a Pakistani American girl who feels like she’s finally found her stride, earning the nickname "Golden Girl" for her success in track and her bright future. However, her world is turned upside down when her father is wrongfully accused of a crime and taken away by the authorities. Suddenly, Aaliyah must navigate the harsh reality of her community’s changing perceptions and the stinging pain of Islamophobia. As she struggles to keep her family together, she finds solace in her culture, her faith, and her passion for running. The story is told through beautiful verse, capturing the frantic pace of her emotions and the quiet strength she discovers within herself. Aaliyah learns to stand tall against injustice while trying to prove her father’s innocence and reclaim her "golden" spirit. It is a moving exploration of how one girl’s courage can shine even when the world tries to dim her light. This novel highlights the importance of identity and the resilience required to face systemic prejudice. (Rated PG).

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CC-SEDGWICK-A.       Morals.  Folklore.  Animals

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This timeless collection brings together dozens of short stories traditionally attributed to an ancient Greek storyteller who used the animal kingdom to mirror human nature. Each fable features anthropomorphic creatures, such as the industrious ant, the boastful hare, and the cunning fox, who talk and act with distinct human-like personalities. These characters serve as clever vehicles for moral lessons, teaching readers about the consequences of pride, greed, laziness, and kindness. Marcus Sedgwick’s modern introduction provides valuable context on how these oral traditions survived through the centuries to become essential literary staples. The narratives are brief yet punchy, often ending with a direct "moral of the story" that resonates across different cultures and eras. From "The Boy Who Cried Wolf" to "The Lion and the Mouse," the book offers a fascinating look at how we project our own ethics onto the natural world. It remains a foundational read for anyone looking to understand the roots of storytelling and the enduring power of a well-told lesson. (Rated G)

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AU-DIXON-D.   Espionage. Investigation.  Brothers

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Frank and Joe Hardy travel to the heart of Washington, D.C., where they are quickly swept into a high-stakes world of international espionage. They are hired to investigate the theft of a top-secret communication device that could compromise national security if it falls into the wrong hands. The brothers find themselves navigating a maze of diplomatic immunity and political secrets as they track down leads among foreign dignitaries. When a young woman connected to a foreign embassy is targeted, the Hardy boys must balance their investigative work with protective duty. As the clock ticks down to a major international summit, the tension rises, and the brothers realize the thief may be someone they least expect. Through a series of narrow escapes and clever detective work, they piece together the clues to prevent a global catastrophe. This entry highlights the brothers' bravery and intelligence as they face off against dangerous professional operatives instead of their usual small-town criminals. (Rated PG)

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CC-LONDON-W.   Survival.   Wilderness.   Wolf-dog

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Born in the frozen wilds of the Yukon, White Fang is a wolf-dog hybrid who quickly learns that the world is a harsh place governed by the "law of meat." After being captured by a Native American tribe, he begins a difficult transition from a life of freedom to one of servitude and domesticity. His spirit is nearly broken when he is sold to the cruel Beauty Smith, who forces him into the brutal and bloody world of professional dog fighting. Through these violent experiences, White Fang becomes a "fighting wolf," fueled by rage and a deep-seated distrust of both humans and animals. His life takes a pivotal turn when he is rescued by a kind man named Weedon Scott, who treats him with a patience he has never known. Under Scott’s gentle guidance, White Fang slowly learns to overcome his savage instincts and discovers the concept of loyalty and love. The story concludes with a dramatic test of his new nature as he travels to California and defends his new family against a dangerous intruder. It is a powerful exploration of how environment and treatment can shape a living being's soul. (Rated PG-13)

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WB-TOLKIEN-T       Quest.   Fantasy.   War

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Following the breaking of the Fellowship, the story splits into two parallel journeys through the darkening lands of Middle-earth. Aragorn, Legolas, and Gimli pursue a band of Uruk-hai to rescue their captured friends, Merry and Pippin, eventually reuniting with a resurrected Gandalf the White. Together, they rally the kingdom of Rohan and its aging King Théoden to defend against the overwhelming forces of the wizard Saruman at the fortress of Helm’s Deep. Meanwhile, Frodo and Sam continue their perilous trek toward Mount Doom, only to be intercepted and "guided" by the treacherous and pitiful creature known as Gollum. Gollum agrees to lead them into Mordor, but his obsession with the One Ring creates constant tension and a looming sense of betrayal for the hobbits. Throughout their travels, the characters encounter ancient Ents and witness the corruption of the natural world as the shadow of Sauron grows across the map. The volume culminates in a desperate struggle for survival and the realization that the fate of the world rests on a knife-edge of hope. (Rated PG-13)

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The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers by Tolkien

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EE-TARSHIS-E.   Logic.   Friendship.   Middle-school

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Emma-Jean Lazarus is a highly logical and quirky seventh-grader who views the world with the detached curiosity of a scientific observer. When she finds her classmate Colleen crying in the school bathroom over a mean-girl incident, Emma-Jean decides to step out of her isolation and use pure logic to "fix" the messy problem. She believes that human emotions are simply puzzles to be solved and begins a series of secret, well-intentioned interventions to improve the lives of those around her. However, Emma-Jean quickly discovers that middle-school social hierarchies and the human heart are far more unpredictable than she initially calculated. As her interventions lead to unintended consequences, she is forced to grapple with the complexities of empathy and genuine connection. Along the way, she also navigates her own quiet grief over her late father and her bond with her eccentric mother. Ultimately, the story is a heartwarming exploration of how being "different" is its own kind of strength. It serves as a gentle reminder that while logic is useful, kindness and intuition are what truly bridge the gap between people. (Rated G)

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EE-PATERSON-J.       Sibling.   Identity.   Island

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Sara Louise Bradshaw grows up on the tiny, isolated island of Rass in the Chesapeake Bay during the 1940s, feeling constantly overshadowed by her beautiful and talented twin sister, Caroline. While Caroline is pampered and praised for her singing voice, "Wheeze" spends her days working the oyster beds with her father, yearning for a life where she isn't perpetually second best. The arrival of an old man known as "The Captain" provides Louise with a mentor and a friend, though his presence also brings new tensions and revelations to her family life. As World War II rages in the background, Louise grapples with an intense, growing resentment toward her sister and her grandmother’s biting religious taunts. She struggles to find her own identity and worth, eventually realizing that she must leave the island's shores to truly define who she is meant to be. Through years of bitterness and hard-won maturity, she eventually finds peace by carving out a career in midwifery and starting a family of her own. This poignant novel explores the deep-seated pain of sibling rivalry and the difficult, often lonely journey toward self-acceptance and forgiveness. (Rated PG)

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WB-FOMBELLE-T.    Miniature.  Ecosystem.  Fugitive

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Toby Lolness is only one and a half millimeters tall and lives in a vast, ancient Oak tree that serves as the entire world for his people. His life is turned upside down when his father, a brilliant scientist, refuses to reveal a secret discovery that could destroy the tree’s fragile ecosystem for profit. Consequently, Toby’s family is imprisoned, and he becomes a fugitive, hunted by his own community and the power-hungry Joe Mitch. While on the run, Toby must survive the dangers of the Great Branch and the harsh elements of the "Low Regions" where outcasts and exile dwell. Along his perilous journey, he remembers the wisdom of his parents and the friendship of a girl named Elisha, which fuels his determination to stay alive. The story serves as a gripping environmental allegory, highlighting the devastating consequences of greed and the destruction of nature. Toby’s epic quest is ultimately a fight for justice, family, and the survival of the only home his people have ever known. (Rated PG)

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US-HARRELL-W.  Resilience.   Middle-school.  Illness

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Ross Maloy is a seventh-grader who just wants to be normal, but that becomes impossible when he is diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. Suddenly, he has to deal with painful radiation treatments, a gooey eye ointment that makes him look like he’s "winking," and the constant, unwanted pity of his peers. To cope with the stress of his diagnosis and the cruelty of middle school bullies, Ross turns to music and begins learning the guitar from a grumpy technician. He also expresses his frustrations through his drawings, creating "Batpig" comic strips that appear throughout the book to mirror his real-life struggles. As his hair falls out and his friendships are tested, Ross must find the courage to stand out rather than just trying to blend in. The story perfectly balances the heavy reality of a medical crisis with genuine laugh-out-loud humor and relatable school drama. It is a powerful testament to the idea that even in your darkest moments, you can find a way to rock on and stay true to yourself. (Rated PG)

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EE-KARON-I.       Community.   Faith.     Healing

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Father Tim Kavanagh and his wife Cynthia have settled back into the quiet, familiar rhythms of Mitford after their time away at the coast. However, the peaceful atmosphere is soon tested when Father Tim faces a significant health crisis that forces him to confront his own mortality and faith. As he struggles with physical recovery and a heavy bout of depression, the quirky and devoted community of Mitford rallies around him in their trademark supportive fashion. Meanwhile, Cynthia pursues her own creative passions as an illustrator, balancing her blossoming career with her role as a caregiver and partner. The narrative weaves in the lives of beloved neighbors, exploring the small-town dramas and deep connections that define the village. Themes of aging, the power of prayer, and finding beauty in the mundane permeate every page of this gentle story. Ultimately, it is a moving celebration of the resilience required to navigate life's unexpected "mountains" with grace and humor. (Rated G)

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AU-GLADWELL-O.   Success    Psychology.  Mastery

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Malcolm Gladwell explores the hidden factors that contribute to high levels of success, moving beyond the traditional idea of "self-made" individuals. He examines why some people achieve extraordinary things while others with similar talent or intelligence do not. The book introduces the famous "10,000-Hour Rule," suggesting that mastery in any field requires a massive amount of deliberate practice. Gladwell also delves into the surprising importance of birth dates, cultural heritage, and even the specific era in which a person is born. Through fascinating case studies of elite hockey players, Bill Gates, and the Beatles, he illustrates how timing and opportunity are often just as important as raw IQ. The narrative challenges readers to rethink their assumptions about meritocracy and the true roots of individual achievement. Ultimately, the book reveals that "outliers" are the product of a complex web of history, community, and lucky breaks rather than just personal ambition. (Rated PG)

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EE-HINTON-T  Brotherhood.   Coming-of-age

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Tex McCormick is a fifteen-year-old living in rural Oklahoma who loves his horse, Negrito, and tries to make the best of a difficult life. With his father away on the rodeo circuit for months at a time, Tex relies on his older brother, Mason, to keep their household running. Conflict erupts when Mason sells Tex’s horse to pay the bills, sparking a deep resentment that threatens to tear the brothers apart. As Tex navigates the hurdles of high school, friendship, and first loves, he finds himself drawn into dangerous situations with the local "tough crowd." A shocking revelation about his birth further complicates his world, forcing him to question his identity and his place in the family. Through moments of violence and vulnerability, Tex must learn to leave his childhood innocence behind and face the complexities of the adult world. It is a powerful story about the bond of brotherhood and the painful process of growing up when the odds are stacked against you. (Rated PG-13)

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HT-KING-L.      dystopia.   survival.    competition

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In a bleak, authoritarian future, one hundred teenage boys volunteer for a brutal endurance contest known as the Long Walk. The rules are simple: maintain a steady pace without stopping — slow down too much and you receive a warning; three warnings mean you are shot. As the miles drag on, friendships form, alliances shift, and the physical and psychological toll becomes devastating. What begins as a competition slowly reveals itself as a haunting exploration of survival, identity, and the cost of hope. (Rated PG-13)

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In Jeanne DuPrau’s The City of Ember, humanity lives in an underground city powered by a massive, failing generator designed to last only 200 years. As the lights begin to flicker and resources run dry, the inhabitants live in constant fear of total darkness.

Young graduates Lina Mayfleet and Doon Harrow stumble upon fragments of an ancient parchment that contains coded instructions from the city's "Builders." Despite the corruption of the city's Mayor, who seeks to hoard remaining supplies, the duo works together to decipher the message. Their investigation leads them through the dangerous Pipeworks to discover a hidden escape route involving the underground river. By following the instructions, they narrowly escape the crumbling city and emerge into a world they never knew existed. They finally witness their first sunrise, realizing that Ember was merely a temporary refuge for the human race. (Rated PG)

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The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight 

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The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight 

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Hadley Sullivan’s day couldn’t be going worse—she’s missed her flight to London, where she’s supposed to attend her father’s wedding. Stuck at the airport and dreading the trip, she never expects to meet Oliver, a charming British stranger who turns a long flight into something unexpectedly meaningful. Over the course of one whirlwind day, their connection deepens as they share stories, fears, and the complicated feelings that come with family and change. But when they land, reality threatens to pull them in different directions. This sweet, heartfelt story explores chance encounters, first love, and the idea that sometimes the timing we resist is exactly what we need. (Rated PG)

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The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight

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SO-BHUIYAN-C.     Romance.     Identity   Family

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Karina Ahmed is counting down the days until her strict parents return from abroad, leaving her under the watchful eye of her extended family. When a classmate convinces her to fake-date him to improve his reputation, Karina agrees—never expecting pretend feelings to start feeling real. As she balances family expectations, cultural traditions, and her own growing independence, the countdown becomes more than just a number. Each day brings her closer to deciding what kind of life she wants to claim for herself. This heartfelt romance explores identity, pressure, and the courage to choose your own path. (Rated PG-13)

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EE-LORD-B.   College.  Friendship   New Beginnings

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After a breakup and a college decision that didn’t go the way she planned, Andie is ready for a fresh start. Transferring to a new school, she finds herself surrounded by passionate students, unexpected friendships, and the chance to reinvent who she wants to be. As she gets involved on campus, Andie begins to question the safe choices she’s always made—and opens herself up to the possibility of new love. But starting over means facing the parts of herself she’s been avoiding. Warm, funny, and full of heart, this story celebrates second chances and the courage it takes to begin again. (Rated PG)

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EE-HAN-S.   Summer.  First love.  Friendship

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Belly has measured her life in summers. Every year, she returns to the beach house with her family and the Fishers—especially Conrad and Jeremiah, the two boys who have always been part of her world. But this summer is different. Belly is older, and for the first time, the boys are seeing her differently too. As friendships shift and feelings deepen, Belly finds herself caught between the comfort of the past and the uncertainty of growing up. This tender coming-of-age story captures first love, changing relationships, and the bittersweet moment when childhood begins to slip away. (Rated PG)

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Belly always believed summer was the season when everything made sense—until a devastating loss changes everything. Now the beach house is filled with memories that hurt more than they heal, and the boys who once made it feel like home are drifting apart. When Conrad disappears and the house is in danger of being sold, Belly teams up with Jeremiah to bring him back and save what’s left of their shared past. As old feelings resurface and grief lingers, Belly must decide whether love can survive heartbreak. This emotional sequel explores loss, healing, and the complicated ties that bind people together. (Rated PG-13)

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It's Not Summer Without You by Jenny Han

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Belly thought she had finally made her choice, but love isn’t always simple—especially when it involves two brothers who have shaped her entire life. As she prepares for a future she once dreamed of, doubts and old emotions begin to surface. One last summer at the beach house brings buried feelings into the open, forcing Belly to confront the past before she can step into adulthood. Torn between history and hope, she must decide what love really means and who she truly wants beside her. This heartfelt conclusion to the trilogy is about growing up, letting go, and learning that first love can shape you forever. (Rated PG-13)

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We'll Always have the Summer by Jenny Han

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WB-TOLKEIN-F.    Quest.  Ring.  Friendship 

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Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

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Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring

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Frodo Baggins never wanted adventure, but when he inherits a powerful ring tied to a dark lord’s return, he must leave his peaceful home behind. Joined by a fellowship of friends—hobbits, a wizard, a ranger, an elf, and a dwarf—Frodo begins a dangerous journey across Middle-earth. Their mission is simple to say but nearly impossible to achieve: destroy the ring before it brings ruin to the world. Along the way, they face terrifying enemies, breathtaking landscapes, and moments that test their courage and loyalty. This epic fantasy tale is a story of friendship, sacrifice, and hope in the face of overwhelming darkness. (Rated PG-13)

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Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring by Tolkien

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WB-L'ENGLE-A.     Time.   Sacrifice.    Destiny

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When Polly O’Keefe is transported back in time to an ancient culture on the brink of conflict, she becomes deeply connected to the people she meets there. As she learns their traditions and struggles, Polly realizes her presence could change the course of history. Torn between her growing feelings and the need to protect the future, she faces impossible choices about love, sacrifice, and destiny. The story weaves together time travel, spirituality, and emotional depth in a powerful tale about the consequences of our actions. It’s a thoughtful exploration of how one life can touch many others. (Rated PG-13)