No Filter and Other Lies

Crystal Maldonado, 2022 by Holiday House

Realistic Fiction

Twenty one-year-old Max Monroe has it all: beauty, friends, and a glittering life filled with adventure. With tons of followers on Instagram, her picture-perfect existence seems eminently enviable.

Except it's all fake.

Max is actually 16-year-old Kat Sanchez, a quiet and sarcastic teenager living in drab Bakersfield, California. Nothing glamorous in her existence--just sprawl, bad house parties, a crap school year, and the awkwardness of dealing with her best friend Hari's unrequited love. -Goodreads

Kat experiences frustration of being unrecognized for her talents, sharing her voice, value as a young woman, and being seen. Yearning for acceptance beyond her immediate circle, she resorts to posting unauthorized photos of a friend in an attempt to use her image to get her voice heard. And it works! Even though she knows it is wrong, she convinces herself to keep doing it. The characters are intricately crafted, underscoring the significance of seeking validation online while yearning to be heard. Despite the valuable message, the narrative occasionally feels didactic, resembling an adult's attempt to caution teens about online safety and ethics, rather than fully resonating with their experiences. No Filter and Other Lies allows for some critical thinking about the influence of social media on self-image, the importance of embracing one's true self, and navigating relationships in an era of filtered realities.

The Beautiful Struggle

Biography/Memoir

Ta-Nehisi Coates, 2021 by Delacorte Press

As a child, Ta-Nehisi Coates was seen by his father, Paul, as too sensitive and lacking focus. Paul Coates was a Vietnam vet who'd been part of the Black Panthers and was dedicated to reading and publishing the history of African civilization. When it came to his sons, he was committed to raising proud Black men equipped to deal with a racist society, during a turbulent period in the collapsing city of Baltimore where they lived. -Goodreads

Finishing this book proved challenging. While the story is captivating, the writing style required some adjustment. It also piqued curiosity about whether English language learners would find it accessible. The book evokes a sense of resilience and triumph amidst adversity, suggesting that struggle can lead to growth and beauty. It hints at the complexities of life, where challenges are not only obstacles but also opportunities for personal and collective transformation. The Beautiful Struggle gives an opportunity to explore navigating adversity, finding beauty in hardship, and the importance of resilience. Coates' memoir provides a window into his coming-of-age journey in Baltimore, offering insights into identity, family dynamics, and societal pressures that many teens can relate to and learn from. This text may not be easily accessible by teens who may be learning English as an additional language.

The Hate U Give

Book v Movie

Angie Thomas, 2017 by Balzer + Bray

Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter moves between two worlds: the poor neighborhood where she lives and the fancy suburban prep school she attends. The uneasy balance between these worlds is shattered when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. Khalil was unarmed. -Goodreads

Raised in the southern United States, the profound impact of this book and movie resonates deeply. Both serve as potent portrayals of how systemic injustices and prejudices shape individual experiences, shedding light on the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities. Books such as this one play a vital role in illuminating the challenges faced by Black and/or people of color in the US. While progress is being made, there's also a need for publishing companies to also prioritize narratives centered on Black Joy and celebrating Black Culture. The Hate U Give is a catalyst for discussions about race, activism, and the impact of societal structures on individual lives. Its raw portrayal of contemporary issues lead to insights of empathy, advocacy, and the complexities of navigating a world filled with prejudice and injustice.

Delicious Monsters

Fantastic Fiction

Liselle Sambury, 2023 by Margaret K. McElderry Books

Daisy sees dead people—something impossible to forget in bustling, ghost-packed Toronto. She usually manages to deal with her unwanted ability, but she’s completely unprepared to be dumped by her boyfriend. So when her mother inherits a secluded mansion in northern Ontario where she spent her childhood summers, Daisy jumps at the chance to escape. But the house is nothing like Daisy expects, and she begins to realize that her experience with the supernatural might be no match for her mother’s secrets, nor what lurks within these walls… -Goodreads

Captivated from the start, Delicious Monsters offers a blend of horror and complexity, delving into themes of family trauma, strained mother relationships, and dark secrets that twist and turn throughout the book. It explores the eerie and suspenseful but also delves into nuanced topics like consent, abuse, and relational manipulation. Its dual points of view, Daisy and Brittney, explore character dynamics and psychological depth. It is definitely for older readers as who enjoy dark, atmospheric tales with unexpected twists and turns that delve into complex social and personal issues within the framework of a gripping horror story.

Anatomy: A Love Story

Historical Fiction

Dana Schwartz, 2022 by Wednesday Books

Edinburgh, 1817.

Hazel Sinnett is a lady who wants to be a surgeon more than she wants to marry.

Jack Currer is a resurrection man who’s just trying to survive in a city where it’s too easy to die.

When the two of them have a chance encounter outside the Edinburgh Anatomist’s Society, Hazel thinks nothing of it at first. But after she gets kicked out of renowned surgeon Dr. Beecham’s lectures for being the wrong gender, she realizes that her new acquaintance might be more helpful than she first thought. -Goodreads

The portrayal of a strong female lead, an invigoratingly suspenseful mystery, and a gothic atmosphere of eeriness and uncertainty makes this book compelling. It revisits the historical timeframe in order to empathize with the adversities women faced during the 19th century. There is a demonstration of a young women who constantly perseveres through every obstacle thrown her way to strive towards her dream. The romantic subplot wasn’t especially enthralling. It did align with the overarching theme of societal expectations regarding women's roles, particularly in terms of non-career and marriage. Anatomy: A Love Story highlights the frustrations women felt while battling societal norms and working to achieve their dreams. It is possible to use this text to grapple with ethical dilemmas rooted in scientific principles, fostering conversations about the moral implications of scientific exploration and discovery.

From Here

LGBTQ+

Luma Mufleh, 2023 by Nancy Paulsen Books

With no word for “gay” in Arabic, Luma may not have known what to call the feelings she had growing up in Jordan during the 1980s, but she knew well enough to keep them secret. It was clear that not only would her family have trouble accepting her, but trapped in a conservative religious society, she could’ve also been killed if anyone discovered her sexuality. Luma spent her teenage years increasingly desperate to find a way out, and finally found one when she was accepted into college in the United States. Once there, Luma begins the ago­nizing process of applying for political asylum, which ensures her safety—but causes her family to break ties with her. -Goodreads

Gut wrenching read that was heartbreaking and at times also full of hope. From Here demonstrates the trauma of seeking belonging, capturing the heartbreaking struggle of feeling lost and shutting oneself down to survive. It also touches on the lack of cultural sensitivity and awareness in the United States towards individuals from the Middle East. While that seems to be changing given the current situation in the ME, there is still a certain stigma and portrayal connected to the region with elements rooted in reality, yet influenced by numerous biases and stereotypes. By exploring identity, empathy, and cultural understanding, teens could reflect on their own sense of belonging and consider how they can foster inclusivity and awareness in their communities.

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Magic Has No Borders: A Collection of Magical South Asian Tales

Story Collection/ Anthologies

Edited by: Sona Charaipotra & Samira Ahmed, 2023 by HarperTeen

From chudails and peris to jinn and goddesses, this lush collection of South Asian folklore, legends, and epics reimagines stories of old for a modern audience. This fantasy and science fiction teen anthology edited by Samira Ahmed and Sona Charaipotra contains a wide range of stories from fourteen bestselling, award-winning, and emerging writers from the South Asian diaspora that will surprise, delight, and move you. So read on, for after all, magic has no borders. -Goodreads

An initial attempt was made to engage with the book, but the experience felt somewhat disjointed. Limited background knowledge of the region affected the comprehension of the captivating stories, although these stories’ presence in literature is exciting. Transitioning to listening to the audiobook provided some improvement, yet the medium wasn't conducive to accommodating wandering thoughts. This book proved to be the most time-consuming to complete. It journeys into a world where magic transcends geographical boundaries, promising a rich tapestry of cultural enchantment. Magic Has No Borders has captivating narratives woven with elements of mysticism, and tradition. Such tales not only offer thrilling escapism but also serve as windows into diverse cultures.

The Weight of Blood

Reimagined Classics

Tiffany D. Jackson, 2022 by Katherine Tegen Books

When Springville residents—at least the ones still alive—are questioned about what happened on prom night, they all have the same explanation … Maddy did it.

An outcast at her small-town Georgia high school, Madison Washington has always been a teasing target for bullies. And she's dealt with it because she has more pressing problems to manage. Until the morning a surprise rainstorm reveals her most closely kept Maddy is biracial. She has been passing for white her entire life at the behest of her fanatical white father, Thomas Washington. -Goodreads

Carry being a Stephen King favorite, this story is just as captivating. It delves into weighty themes with a boldness that's both admirable and disquieting. It goes beyond the surface of bullying, delving into the insidious nature of racial bullying and the systemic racism that perpetuates such environments. The Weight of Blood’s exploration of segregated proms in the recent past was particularly eye-opening and served as a stark reminder of the lingering effects of historical injustices. The portrayal of the abuse inflicted on a biracial child from the father adds another layer of complexity to the story, prompting reflection on the intersections of race and power dynamics. These elements provide opportunities for exploration and critical reflection about identity, family dynamics, privilege, social justice and the consequences of compliance as well as silence.

Firekeeper's Daughter

Angeline Boulley, 2021 by Henry, Holt and Co.

Native American & Indigenous Peoples

As a biracial, unenrolled tribal member and the product of a scandal, Daunis Fontaine has never quite fit in—both in her hometown and on the nearby Ojibwe reservation. When her family is struck by tragedy, Daunis puts her dreams on hold to care for her fragile mother. The only bright spot is meeting Jamie, the charming new recruit on her brother’s hockey team.

After Daunis witnesses a shocking murder that thrusts her into a criminal investigation, she agrees to go undercover. But the deceptions—and deaths—keep piling up and soon the threat strikes too close to home. -Goodreads

The mystery and suspense kept going throughout the story. It masterfully depicts the setting and characters, immersing readers in Daunis's world and her struggle with identity.


The slow start gives way to a gripping murder mystery, challenging societal norms along the way. Authentic references to Ojibwe culture add depth, and Daunis's writing creates complex relationships and moral dilemmas. The novel stands out for its compelling characters and cultural insights, seeking diverse voices and engaging storytelling.


Firekeeper’s Daughter's exploration of themes like identity and belonging offer a unique perspective on the experience of navigating between different worlds.

Saints of the Household

Ari Tison, 2023 by Farrar, Straus and Giroux

Pura Belpré

Max and Jay have always depended on one another for their survival. Growing up with a physically abusive father, the two Bribri American brothers have learned that the only way to protect themselves and their mother is to stick to a schedule and keep their heads down.

But when they hear a classmate in trouble in the woods, instinct takes over and they intervene, breaking up a fight and beating their high school's star soccer player to a pulp. -Goodreads

This book is an exploration of familial bonds, identity, and resilience through the lens of Jay and Max, two indigenous brothers navigating the complexities of adolescence and family dynamics. The narrative captures the essence of the Bribri culture, emphasizing the strength derived from familial ties. As Jay and Max struggle with their father's abusive behavior and their own desires for a different future, their journey of self-discovery, and the challenges they face are approached in completely different ways. Saints Of The Household explores cultural identity, family dynamics, and the impact of societal expectations as well as loyalty, responsibility, and personal growth. Switching between Jay and Max's viewpoints, the story delves into breaking free from the limitations of upbringing, stopping cycles of abuse, and rejecting being solely defined by circumstances, showcasing transformative resilience and empowerment.

Asian Americans & Pacific Islanders (AAPI)

Tokyo Ever After

Emiko Jean, 2021 by Flatiron Books

Izumi Tanaka has never really felt like she fit in—it isn’t easy being Japanese American in her small, mostly white, northern California town. Raised by a single mother, it’s always been Izumi—or Izzy, because “It’s easier this way”—and her mom against the world. But then Izzy discovers a clue to her previously unknown father’s identity… and he’s none other than the Crown Prince of Japan. Which means outspoken, irreverent Izzy is literally a princess. -Goodreads

Romance isn't typically a go-to genre, as it can sometimes foster unrealistic relationship ideals, especially for teenagers who are at a crucial stage in understanding healthy relationships through literature. This book is an enjoyable and breezy read. Izumi navigates the challenges of identity and heritage in a world that demands perfection. Izumi's journey to reconnect with her Japanese roots while grappling with the pressures of royal life can be both relatable and endearing. The novel's witty and light-hearted tone provides an escape into a fantasy world filled with antics and moments of genuine reflection. Izumi's struggle to balance her newfound royal responsibilities with her desire for authenticity connects with the pressures teenagers face. Tokyo Ever After showcases Izumi's humorous mishaps and her journey of self-discovery offer valuable insights into the complexities of adolescence and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures.

The Immeasurable Depth of You

Maria Ingrande Mora, 2023 by Peachtree Teen

(dis)Ability, Illness, Differently Abled

Fifteen-year-old Brynn can’t stop thinking about death. Her intrusive thoughts and severe anxiety leave her feeling helpless—and hopeless. So after her mom interprets one of Brynn’s blog posts as a suicide note, she takes extreme measures, confiscating Brynn’s phone, blocking her Internet access, and banishing her to stay with her father who lives “off the grid” on a houseboat in the Florida mangroves. Isolated from her online friends—her only friends—Brynn resigns herself to a summer of mind-numbing boredom and loneliness… until Skylar appears. -Goodreads

The depiction of intrusive thoughts is extremely well written. The story presents a captivating blend of genres, intertwining elements of mystery, romance, and supernatural along with the struggle of mental health. Brynn's journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, portrayed with vivid descriptions of her physical and emotional struggles with anxiety. It offers insight into the lived experience of those mental health concerns. In The Immeasurable Depth of You, Brynn emerges as a multifaceted and relatable character, navigating her challenges with resilience and authenticity. Brynn's interactions with the ghost of the dead girl and her struggles with intrusive thoughts, allow for exploration themes of resilience, self-acceptance, and the importance of seeking support. Teens can gain empathy and understanding for the complexities of mental health issues while also enjoying a compelling story that blends genre conventions.

The Next New Syrian Girl

Ream Shukairy, 2023 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Muslim Experience

Khadija Shami is a Syrian American high school senior raised on boxing and football. Saddled with a monstrous ego and a fierce mother to test it, she dreams of escaping her sheltered life to travel the world with her best friend.

Leene Tahir is a Syrian refugee, doing her best to adjust to the wildly unfamiliar society of a suburban Detroit high school while battling panic attacks and family pressures.

When their worlds collide the result is catastrophic. -Goodreads

Through the dual perspectives of Khadija and Leene, the challenges of being Syrian American and a Syrian refugee, navigating through societal prejudice and personal struggles. Ream Shukairy intertwines themes of cultural expectations, friendship, and resilience, creating a narrative that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful. The rushed development of certain characters, especially Zain, leave room for improvement in side character development. The Next New Syrian Girl delves into cultural identity, empathy, and resilience. Khadija's internal conflict about meeting her mother's expectations or Leene's experiences as a refugee, prompt reflection on values, beliefs, and biases. The portrayal of Khadija and Leene's friendship can also serve as a powerful example of bridging cultural divides and finding common ground amidst adversity.

Comic Expression

Wonder Cat Kyuu Chan

Manga

Sasami Nitori, 2021 by Seven Seas

There's more to this kitty than meets the eye! Kyuu-chan loves snacks, cuddles, and bow ties, but above all, this mischievous wondercat loves Hinata, the young professional who adopted Kyuu-chan into his home.

As the two adjust to life together, they discover that they have a lot to learn from each other. -Goodreads

As the first Manga ever read, the heartwarming bond between Hinata and Kyuu-chan is beautifully depicted through charming illustrations and humorous anecdotes. The relatable moments of cat ownership, from Kyuu-chan's love for boxes to his mischievous antics, add a delightful touch to the story. Wonder Cat Kyuu Chan provides a perfect balance of humor and heart, making it a joy to read from start to finish. The cutesy drawing style perfectly captures the adorable essence of the characters and adds to the overall charm of the comic. It could be used to engage teens in discussions about responsibility, companionship, and empathy. Kyuu-chan's epic journey to deliver Hinata's forgotten lunch, can focus on loyalty, determination, and the importance of going above and beyond for loved ones.

The Red Palace

Edgar Award

June Hur, 2022 by Feiwel & Friends

Joseon (Korea), 1758. There are few options available to illegitimate daughters in the capital city, but through hard work and study, eighteen-year-old Hyeon has earned a position as a palace nurse. All she wants is to keep her head down, do a good job, and perhaps finally win her estranged father's approval.

But Hyeon is suddenly thrust into the dark and dangerous world of court politics when someone murders four women in a single night, and the prime suspect is Hyeon's closest friend and mentor. Determined to prove her beloved teacher's innocence, Hyeon launches her own secret investigation. -Goodreads

It is a captivating blend of historical intrigue and personal struggle, encapsulating ​the complexities of relationships within a rigid societal framework. Baek Hyeon's ​quest for validation and her determination to exonerate her mentor amidst ​palace politics kept me on the edge of my seat. Hur skillfully weaves together ​themes of duty, ambition, and gender expectations against the backdrop of 18th-​century Joseon, creating indepth characters and conflicts. The Red Palace explores ​themes such as loyalty, justice, and the constraints of societal norms. Hyeon ​struggles to balance her duties as a nurse with her desire for independence, ​paralleling it with the challenges modern teens face in navigating their own ​aspirations amidst societal expectations. It would be interesting to analyze the ​palace massacre and Hyeon's collaboration with Inspector Eojin, examining how ​alliances are formed and tested in the pursuit of truth and justice.

All the Fighting Parts

Hannah V. Sawyerr, 2023 by Harry N. Abrams

Novel Verse

Sixteen-year-old Amina Conteh has always believed in using her tongue as her weapon—even when it gets her into trouble. After cursing at a classmate, her father forces her to volunteer at their church with Pastor Johnson.

But Pastor Johnson isn’t the holy man everyone thinks he is. -Goodreads

The text narrative and verse crafts a powerful exploration of identity, trauma, and resilience. Each character's voice rings with authenticity, adding depth to the narrative's emotional landscape. The book's central message, that the fight against injustice takes many forms, resonates deeply, urging teens to consider the multifaceted nature of activism and resilience. The focus on consent, trauma, and empowerment in All The Fighting Parts may lead to insightful and profound realizations. Amina's internal struggles and her evolving fighting spirit, demonstrate resilience, advocacy, and agency. The use of verse to convey tension and meaning offers an opportunity for creative writing exercises in order to experiment with poetic forms to express experiences and perspectives. Given the weighty themes and circumstances depicted, it's crucial to utilize this book in an educational setting within a safe and supportive environment.

Puberty Is Gross but Also Really Awesome

STEAM/Non-Fiction

Gina Loveless, 2021 by Rodale Kids

Puberty… is pretty gross for pretty much everyone. It’s a smelly, hairy, sticky, and (worst of all) totally confusing time! But did you know there’s a lot about puberty that makes it REALLY AWESOME?

Get the whole picture with this honest, humorous, and empowering survival guide to the tween years. It’s packed with straight forward illustrations, easy-to-understand scientific information, interesting studies, and tips from experts, covering everything from breast development and gender identity to acne and mental health. -Goodreads

This book is a great resource for navigating puberty. Its inclusive approach not only addresses the physical changes but also emphasizes the importance of embracing one's identity and respecting others'. Puberty Is Gross but Also Really Awesome reviews a range of topics from bodily changes to mental health, including diverse representation in illustrations and the inclusive language used throughout. It promotes holistic well-being.

Daughter of the Moon Goddess

Sue Lynn Tan

DOTMG-January 2022 by Harper Voyager

DOTMG- Alone, powerless, and afraid, she makes her way to the Celestial Kingdom, a land of wonder and secrets. Disguising her identity, she seizes an opportunity to learn alongside the emperor's son, mastering archery and magic, even as passion flames between her and the prince.

To save her mother, Xingyin embarks on a perilous quest, confronting legendary creatures and vicious enemies across the earth and skies. -Goodreads

The first book, long postponed, was devoured in days, the second in a single sitting. Describing the impact of this duology as significant would be an understatement. Daughter of the Moon Goddess intricately weaves Chinese mythology, showcasing dyanamic storytelling. Xingyin's journey transcends mere adventure, delving into themes of resilience and growth amidst a backdrop of mythical wonders and intense tension.

Free Choice

Heart of the Sun Warrior

Sue Lynn Tan

HOTSW-November 2022 by Harper Voyager

HOTSW- After her perilous quest to free her mother, Xingyin thrives once more in the tranquility of her home. But her fragile peace is threatened by the discovery of a strange magic on the moon and the unsettling changes in the Celestial Kingdom as the emperor tightens his grip on power. While Xingyin is determined to keep clear of the rising danger, the discovery of a shocking truth spurs her into a treacherous confrontation. -Goodreads

Xingyin's encounters with mythical creatures and moments of intense peril and doom within Heart of the Sun Warrior allows for exploration of courage, empathy, and the human experience. The unexpected twists and emotional complexities could lead to an analysis of character motivations and narrative structure. Though the second book evoked both tears and admiration for its gut-wrenching yet beautiful moments, the character development didn't match the strength of the first installment. The exceptional quality of the writing remains undeniable.

World Book Day Background with some books stack ornament

Terea Marcum

LIS 618 • YA Lit

Rez Ball

Whole Class

Byron Graves, 2023 by Heartdrum

These days, Tre Brun finds his greatest joy playing basketball for the ​Red Lake Reservation high school team, despite being constantly ​reminded of his late brother, Jaxon. When Jaxon’s former varsity ​teammates offer to mentor him, Tre sees this as his chance to lead his ​Ojibwe rez to its first state championship. Stepping into his brother’s ​shoes as a star player means Tre must excel on the court, at school, ​and with his new friend, gamer Khiana, who he might be falling for. ​After years of rez teams coming close, Tre is determined to take his ​team to state and continue Jaxon’s legacy. -Goodreads

Creating a lasting legacy that truly shows the culture and Ojibwe ​community are at the forefront of this novel. Rez Ball shows the ​struggle of navigating one’s own culture and towing the fine line of ​what life is like to be brown in the US. Tre’s attempt to keep Jaxon’s ​memory alive while not living in the shadow of his success often ​leaves Tre feeling lost. The court he is able to just be himself and ​learn what it means to be a true leader. This book can be u​sed in an educational setting to teach teens about resilienc​e, teamwork, cultural heritage, and emotional intelligence through i​ts inspiring narrative on perseverance, community, grief, goal-​setting, and familial e​xpectations.

If You Come Softly

Edward’s Award

Jacqueline Woodson, 2006 by Speak

Elisha (Ellie) and Jeremiah (Miah) attend Percy Academy, a private ​school where both feel out of place. Ellie struggles with family issues, ​while Miah is one of the few African American students. They find ​solace in each other and fall in love, but hesitate to share their ​happiness with friends and family who may not understand. ​Ultimately, a tragic twist of fate decides their future. -Goodreads

Gut-wrenching! Growing up in the South, navigating these types of ​relationships often involved tension and, at times, fear. The ​complexities of multiracial and multicultural relationships are ​intricate. Watching Ellie and Miah's relationship unfold in ways ​that are innocent, pure, and considerate was breathtaking. "If You ​Come Softly" addresses racial identity, social justice, and ​interracial relationships. Teens in international schools will ​resonate with the misguided familial understandings and ​expectations of what love should look like. For those unfamiliar ​with navigating cultural differences in a relationship, ​comprehending the nuances of protecting it might be challenging. ​Additionally, the novel can be viewed as a modern retelling of ​"Romeo and Juliet," offering opportunities for further analysis and ​interpretation of both stories.