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THE SCORPIO RACES

Evaluation:

Maggie Steifvater stuns me again – will I never not be surprised? – in her historical, folklore fiction The Scorpio Races. Beautifully crafted, Stiefvater creates a world haunted and allured by the deadly, mythical water horses, as the island celebrates and grieves the inevitable cold, November race. No rider has more reason to ride than Puck Connolly and Sean Kendrick, though they must live to tell the tale.

Stiefvater’s ability at world building is at times unparalleled, and The Scorpio Races does not disappoint. Gripping from the prologue, the enchantment and danger of the capall uisce, the genuine fear and appreciation of the races is only further portrayed as the story progresses around the island. Stiefvater’s skill is so refined, I found myself questioning what was actually fiction as the book’s realism was so easily established. Beautifully done, I couldn’t help but wish I could witness the elation, fear, and risk of the races.

One of the elements that captured me was the characterization and development of the main characters. Puck’s relationship and repertoire with her youngest brother, Finn, had me laughing and smiling with envy, somber for the loss of their family, and protective of their future. Stiefvater envisioned such relatable, witty, honest characters that I easily slipped into her world and never left until her ending author’s note. The progression of Puck’s determination, fueled by love, fear, and the magic of her island, as the first woman to race was so heartfelt and authentic, I couldn’t help but believe and root for every word and action of Puck. Furthermore, the story ending and beginning with Sean’s journey with his red capall uisce stallion was so beautifully crafted, Stiefvater brought the mythical essence of the water horse to life.

Response:

Stiefvater is in a league of her own in regards to YA fantasy, but I found The Scorpio Races to be a pleasant surprise, as I have had this novel on my to-read list for many years, yet never took the chance to pick it up. I simply loved the mixture of historical realism with Irish and Scottish folklore, and now can’t help but desire similar YA reads. Puck’s love for her family and her home was just as inspiring as her determination at being a women empowerment.

Conclusion:

In Maggie Stiefvater’s historical fantasy The Scorpio Races, readers will be left feeling inspired, hopeful, wistful, and empowered as the longing to be a part of a great story as all are interwoven in this realistic Irish/Scottish folklore. Perfect for junior, teen, and young adult readers.

Citation:

Stiefvater, M. (2011). The scorpio races. New York, NY: Scholastic Press.

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THE POET X

Evaluation:

With masterful artistry, Elizabeth Acevedo brings prose to life in The Poet X as Xiomara poems article her journey through family, religion, sexuality, confidence, and self-love. Riveting and one of the most authentically honest YA novels I’ve read, Avecedo will connect with readers in ways only few YA contemporary novels can.

Avecedo’s brilliant ability to articulate Xiomara’s story, actions, and emotions with such poetic poise gripped my heart and soul, and hasn’t let go days later. Though not your typical illustrated book, Avecedo skillfully uses Xiomara’s words to create depth with detail as Xiomara’s voice and feelings change as the composition, flow, and movement of her poems fly across the page. Physically changing the direction, the space, how words filter on each page formulated Xiomara’s personality in such gripping detail, I could so clearly hear her voice while also picturing her write each poem as the story progressed. Likewise, use of language and dialogue captures you, as not every poem, verse, line rhymes, yet each word and sentence has a distinct purpose, meaning, affect.

Truly, the unexpected insights in this novel are what astounded me and will forever have me as an Elizabeth Acevedo. How each poem describes Xiomara’s struggle, battle, and emotion with her family issues, the disinterest for religion, her new feelings toward a boy, all neatly tied to the deep-rooted cultural aspect to her life is masterful and brilliant. Easy to realize this is Acevedo’s element, her skill, her natural talent. Xiomara’s journey to communicate through her poems, leading her towards how to find her own voice had my heart soaring and heartbreaking every other page.  

Response:

This is possibly my favorite of the year and I say that quite confidently. The undeniable skill to narrate a story so well through such poetic prose has left my heart and soul touched in a way most novels cannot. Acevedo’s creation of Xiomara impacted me as a reader, as a daughter, a sister, and as a woman. My prior appreciation for slam poetry has reached to new heights as the desire to read, write, and speak in such a way as Xiomara and Acevedo that I’m left burning for more. If I could personally thank Elizabeth Acevedo for bringing me into such a world, a life, for touching my heart, I would. An absolute pleasure to read such a story as Xiomara’s.

Conclusion:

Elizabeth Acevedo’s The Poet X is the poetic articulation of how kids struggle to find their voice and the needed outlets that find to discover how to speak. Xiomara’s ability to express her thoughts, questions, emotions, and actions in artful poetry creates a whole new genre for YA readers as they can learn the beauty and unique ways to tell their story. A strong recommendation to almost all ages.

Citation:

Acevedo, E. (2018). The poet x. New York, NY: HarperTeen.

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JULIAN IS A MERMAID

Evaluation:

Julian Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love is one of those important stories that reaches into your heart, squeezes tight, and doesn’t let go. Simplistic and delicate, Julian Is a Mermaid is the comforting story of identity, acceptance, community, and self-love.

First and foremost, the illustrations of this children story are expressive, representative, and marvelous as they tell the story so beautifully and alone. These exquisite drawings portray the story through Julian’s eye’s so well, I couldn’t help but read it with a child-like aura or mood. Love illustrations Julian’s joy and excite to be dressed as a mermaid as easily as Julian’s fear and shame when discovered to Julian’s astonishment and happiness at the end with his abuela’s help. This heartwarming story has a sweet amount of diversity to distinguish it from others, yet feels utterly inclusivity to all.

A specific beauty of Love’s work is the minimal use dialogue as they simplistic choice of words and sentences accentuates the detail and depth of the illustrations. Love interweaves language easily to depict the culture, giving a more representative, inclusive story for many different readers. The immediate understanding and acceptance of Julian’s abuela is the most heartwarming thing, and captures the very essence of love.

Response:

The beauty of such story is that it naturally tells itself. Love correlates the controversy of social and gender roles by just articulating a journey of self-love, filled with joy and acceptance. I think certain stories as such are as powerful as they are empowering for readers, and I will advocate for such stories all my life. Love’s portrayal of the trans community in such an eloquent way is a beautiful way of representation and inclusion for young readers, families, and communities. This story touched my heart and soul with the tender care only a happy, loving child can. Simply beautiful.

Conclusion:

In Jessica Love’s Julian is a Mermaid, Julian’s appreciation for mermaids sets the mood and journey of his story to understanding that he is welcomed, accepted, and loved just for who he is. Heartfelt, delicate, and illustrated with love, a definite recommendation for all ages and genders.

Citation:

Love, J. (2018). Julian is a mermaid. Somerville, MS: Candlewick Press.

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ONE OF US IS LYING (One of Us is Lying, #1)

Evaluation:

Karen McManus’s One of Us is Lying is the harsh, dangerous truth and reality of the impact technology has on our youth today. Switching perspectives of the four suspects in a murder, McManus discusses controversial issues delicately interweaving it naturally in this YA psychological thriller.

Psychological thrillers has always been a genre I’ve been interested in trying, and One of Us is Lying was just the push I needed! McManus does not disappoint as her attention to detail really sold the progression of the story. As fans of this genre probably know, I found trying to guess who the murderer was the most enjoyable aspect of the novel. McManus switching the perspective of the story from four different, authentic characters created such depth to their connection to the murder and each other character, I couldn’t help but empathize with their storyline, even knowing they could be the murderer.

The characterization and development captured me as a reader, especially as the ending neared and the arrested suspect is in custody. McManus creating such an honest viewpoint of our youth’s thoughts, emotions, and actions in such dangerous, but possible future. McManus’s ability to keep the suspense from murder to discovering who the murderer is had me having to refrain from flipping the pages just to find the truth.

Response:

I’m highly – and happily – surprised by how much I enjoyed this novel. I remember coming across this novel last year, and feeling skeptical about the genre and the storyline. “Is this story believable?” “How psychologically thrilling can a YA novel be?”, I thought. Here I am, a year later, figuratively bashing myself because I was so captured by McManus’s storytelling, I’ve already preordered her second book, One of Us is Next! In all honesty, McManus’s authentic characters were astounding, and are easily what gripped me as a reader. Bronwyn, Addy, Nate, and Cooper were some of my favorite characters to read, as their personalities were honest, charismatic, funny, and romantic. I loved every bit. Except obviously for Simon’s death…kind of.

Citation:

McManus, K. M. (2017). One of us is lying. New York, NY: Delacorte Press.

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THE CAVENDISH HOME FOR BOYS AND GIRLS

Evaluation:

Utterly creepy with dark humor Claire Legrand’s The Cavendish Home for Boys and Girls delves into the importance of friendship and the value of uniqueness. After discovering the wicked and strange disappearance of her only friend Lawrence, perfect, good, innocent Victoria investigates and uncovers a dark reality of her own town.

A great contributor to Legrand’s storytelling is her ability to establish the mood, and she shows her talent in this thrilling junior novel. The harrowing truth of Lawrence’s disappearance as well as the other kids, and the chilling presence of the Cavendish orphanage was so easily written, I found my arms filled with goosebumps too many times. Legrand’s description of how Victoria discovers the truth and how her own life becomes in jeopardy had me turning pages faster than I was ready for, where one more page slowly became one more chapter. The overall mood of the novel was authentically pleasing and well-written as each character’s interaction with Victoria reiterated the spine-chilling truth of Ms. Cavendish and Mr. Alice.

Another element Legrand incorporates well is the intersecting of the setting and characterization as I found myself visually questioning each person, place, and thing in the entire town along Victoria on her investigation. The down-right spooky and chilling vibe of the Cavendish home – inside and out – excellently progressed the story as Victoria slowly unraveled how to defeat Ms. Cavendish. The depiction of presence through the bugs was disgustingly brilliant and made my skin absolutely crawl. The transition of Victoria’s character was authentic as her character developed from the perfect, good, dutiful daughter, student, child to understanding differences can just as perfect. I loved the transition from her distaste for Lawrence’s talent at music became her solace and comfort in times of struggle and fear.

Response:

In all honesty, I’m in absolute adoration for Claire Legrand and have yet to read a story of hers I haven’t completely absorbed wholeheartedly; my bias is very thick. Though for a younger age group, Legrand easily captured me again as chapter after chapter, page after page, I needed answers just as much as Victoria. Legrand has a special way of making her readers feel just what the characters are portraying with such genuine skill. I adored the friendship between Victoria and Lawrence, and reading how Victoria changed, altered, opened to the possibility of differences and being more than “good”.  

Conclusion:

Claire Legrand’s The Cavendish Home for Boys and Girls is a perfect spooky mystery readers will be flipping page after page nervously wondering what happened to Lawrence, and who – what – Ms. Cavendish and Mr. Alice are. With dark, witty, childlike humor, and a chilling mood that will have readers on the edge of each page, this is a great thrilling read for junior and teen readers.

Citation:

Legrand, C. (2012). The cavendish home for boys and girls. New York, NY: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

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ILLUMINAE (The Illuminae Files, #1)

Evaluation:

Upon first sight, this book can come across as intimidating because of its sheer size. 599 pages. For any reader, the number of pages can be daunting, but the surprise of this book is that it is so easy to read, it's almost read from first page to last at light-speed.

The most noticeable element is the composition as the entire story is told through a file compiled fully of records and reports, all by different people and characters. It’s a tale literally woven from different sources. Some human, some not. To what end the report is made and compiled for is a surprise left answered at the end. The idea of having the entire book and story to be told through these reports and files make the story more personal because not only can readers be told different events and happenings by different characters, but they also add the element of imagery to the books foretelling. Certain files and "papers" have smudges, stains, and writings.

Another element – which is connected to the imagery presented by having the files be presented as they are retrieved –  is the dialogue and language that’s showcased through military markings and mark outs. By presenting military protocol (such as retracting or scratching out parts of reports that can be deemed unimportant or inappropriate to the books military, those parts are some of the funniest points of the narrative. The novel does not explicitly use foul language (or it does but it literally does not show certain words spelled out) but it hints at it and that only just adds to the humor presented by the characters.

Similarly, the illustrations presented are not purely in the form of file and record like data, but also actual images such as intergalactic flight ship models, digital drawings/designs. These images play crucial to the establish the mood of the book at the time they are shown. Some add to the romance playing out between characters, others showcase the formation and personality of an AI system that is more than just a mere system. This novel is a unique combination of words and images and it is a ride from start to finish.

Response:

As a reader whom is not fond or fairly interested in science fiction, Illuminae may have just been the book to crack the seal. I’m floored by this unique tale, this dramatic creative journey by Kaufman and Kristoff. It's roller coaster of intergalactic drama, and there's always the sense of doom that will soon arrive for our characters, but the book has heart and hope, and above all else it’s just too funny. I found the fact that not a single curse word is literally written, because they are been redacted, purely the funniest, best thing. This novel, while categorically a sci-fi tale, stays true to showing the realities of what it means to be human and the truths that are often associated to humanity: abuse of power, the ramifications (and fears) of AI technology, and above all else the power of love and hope. The fact that this is only book one is a great tease for what I'm sure is an amazing series still yet to unfold in books two and three, and I'm sure that Kaufman and Kristoff do not disappoint in the next parts of their great sci-fi opera.

Conclusion:

Beginning with the end of a relationship--and the end of one world – Illuminae by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff explores how the tale of survival in space can lead to new beginnings too. The book shows the power of words written: how they are used to convey emotion, to reveal truth, to find hope when you think all is lost. Perfect for junior, teen, and young adults, Illuminae is a read full of action, humor, and love because while it’s a story about running from an enemy in space, it remains a romance between two people, and their journey back to each other.

Citation:

Kaufman, A. & Kristoff, J. (2015). Illuminae. New York, NY: Alfred A. Knopf.

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JOSEPHINE: THE DAZZLING LIFE OF JOSEPHINE BAKER

Evaluation:

Honest in its depiction, Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker by Patricia Hruby Powell recounts the flamboyant life of Josephine Baker. Growing up during the age of segregation, racial hatred, World War I, and everything in-between, Josephine Baker fought for her exuberate, extraordinary life as Black woman during the 1900s.

Most noticeably, the language by Powell is powerful in its narration of Josephine Baker’s journey to stardom. The poetic lines, emphasized words, clipped tone, created a distinct rhythm while reading as if the story had its own dance. The historical accuracy is a great contribution to establishing the mood as Powell portrays the struggle and fight Josephine Baker overcame to be remembered and revered as she is today.

Another element that added a bit of pizazz to the story’s progression was the illustrations, specifically the composition, as each picture brought a different layer of depth and accuracy to represent her journey. I loved the simplicity of each illustration as they slightly eased readers in the contextual aspect of the story as in certain moments of the book are historically serious and somber. Likewise, Josephine’s love for dancing was written so well, it was infectious and I can’t help but feel a deep appreciation for her as a dancer, an young Black woman, and an activist and advocate who impacted the dance world for many non-White communities.

Response:

Having never heard of Josephine Baker, reading this story was captivating, enlightening, and honest its authentic telling of her journey to becoming an inspiring spirit for young people of all races. Powell’s illustration of Josephine’s courage, heart, and soul as she fought for dance, family, equality, and love across the globe is the needed empowering stories I wish more people took the time to read. What an inspiring, heartfelt story.

Conclusion:

From the segregated, racially dangerous area in Missouri to the richest, exquisite life in France, Josephine Baker made sure her named would be remembered across the world. From dancing and performing for Black and White crowds to fighting for equality and love in WWI to adopting her Rainbow Tribe, Josephine Baker is the inspiring activist not discussed enough. Powell’s fun, interactive biography of her life is perfect non-fiction for juniors and teens.  

Citation:

Powell, P. H. (2014). Josephine: The dazzling life of Josephine baker. San Francisco, CA: Chronicle Books LLC

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MARTINA THE BEAUTIFUL COCKROACH

Evaluation:

It is so easy to appreciate sweet retellings and Martina the Beautiful Cockroach by Carmen Agra Deedy is no exception. Being known as the beautiful cockroach Old Havana, Martina this subjected to possible suitors for marriage, yet her Cuban grandmother gives her some well-intended advice. Martina is skeptical, but by each suitor she discovers that sometimes grandmother’s know best.

First thing that stood out to me are the exquisite illustrations. The illustrator Michael Austin incorporates such composition in this Cuban folklore, readers won’t help but appreciation. From the mood of the story to creating depth with detail, each illustration articulates Martina’s journey to finding a suitor believable, comedic, and heartfelt. The expressiveness of each character flows so smoothly along with the story, I found myself interested to see where the story would go, dialogue and pictures and all. Austin’s attention to detail is noticeable as the personality of each suitor for Martina is portrayed and illustrated beautifully. Even Austin’s depiction of Martina and her grandmother’s reflections in the home – a street lamp – gives the impression of care for the story.

I loved the repetition of language in the dialogue for the story. Martina is known as beautiful, is known by her exquisite name, and how each suitor says her name tells a story itself. How Senor Don Gallo, Senor Don Cerdo, and Senor Don Lagarto use the word beautiful in Martina’s name, compared to Senor Perez who discusses other things besides Martina’s beauty is such an important message. Likewise, the incorporation of Spanish in the story is done beautifully, as non-Spanish speaking readers will be able to follow along as well as get an accurate feel, use, and visual into this Cuban folklore.

Response:

I absolutely adored this Cuban children folklore, from the storyline to the language to the illustrations, Deedy and Austin have created such a beautiful retelling about the value of beauty. I found myself smiling as Martina grows more confident in herself and what she wants as she uses her Abuela’s advice to find her suitor. The ending of the Cuban grandmothers’ meddling is so accurately portrayed, but with such tender care and appreciation I fully understand the value and love from the authors. I could easily see how I would have enjoyed such a story growing up as a young girl, whom put too much thought and value into the word beauty and what exactly it means to be beautiful. I think this is a fabulous read for all young children – girls and boys – to understand there are more things than being beautiful.

Conclusion:                                  

In Carmen Agra Deedy’s Cuban folklore retelling, Martina the Beautiful Cockroach is a great read for learning how to value oneself and others besides for their beauty. This empowering, comedic read is great for all young readers.

Citation:

Deedy, C. A. (2007). Martina the beautiful cockroach. Atlanta, GA: Peachtree Publishers

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FURYBORN (Empirium, #1)

Evaluation:

With fierce feminism, love, death, and an ancient prophecy, Claire Legrand’s Furyborn is a rollercoaster from beginning to finish. Two women find themselves at the mercy of an angelic prophecy, battling their own destinies, yet their stories connect with a thousand years between.

Legrand’s exceptional storytelling is at it again in this wonderful first YA trilogy. I was hooked instantly by the plotline, as the entire concept is new and exciting, like a breath of fresh air in the high fantasy genre. I thought her intentional use of foreshadowing what the reader can only understand as the end of the story in the prologue gripping and utterly fascinating. The air of mystery, foreboding mood, leaves readers wondering how it all connects as the story progresses between Elianna and Rielle’s perspective.

Likewise, Legrand’s characterization and character development has her in a comfortable spot as one of my top ten – if not top five – favorite authors. The evident differences between Elianna and Rielle as individuals is what makes them so relatable, so emotionally honest, and authentically true to the story. Both of these strong, independent women both struggle with their internal and external demons, as both identify as “monsters”, and to read the transition throughout the story to see how they either overcome or are overcome by their power. The depth to each character, the mood that sets the ultimately question – do we determine our own fate? – is interwoven so well in a story that bases the entire plotline and characters off a prophecy. Legrand’s world building by having small notes, stories, letters that creates an even bigger world on top of her trilogy, creating depth to the amount of detail and thought incorporated in her story.

Response:

I’ll admit, I am a Claire Legrand fan through-and-through; this woman owns a part of my reading soul and I am wholeheartedly committed. I had a three to four month book-hangover when I read Furyborn last year, and re-reading this book in preparation for Kingsbane, the second book in the Empirium trilogy, I fell in love all over again with Legrand’s ability at storytelling. I’m living for her no-doubt-shove-it-in-your-face feminism, and Elianna and Rielle are such beautifully written, brilliantly crafted, complex women characters, and I love them with my whole heart. Forever a Legrand fan.

Conclusion:

Brilliantly written with complexity, Furyborn is a strong contender for the most women empowerment YA fantasy. With an ancient prophecy determining their fate, Elianna and Rielle will fight for their own destiny as their stories intersect millennium apart. Perfect YA fantasy read for teens and young adults.  

Citation:

Legrand, C. (2018). Furyborn. Naperville, IL: Sourcebooks Fire.

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CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE (Legacy of Orïsha, #1)

Evaluation:

Tomi Adeyemi’s Children of Blood and Bone is a high-paced fantasy read that journey’s through the perspective of Zelie, Amari, and Inan as the fight for and against magic rages across their country and its people. The depiction and changing viewpoint of the oppressed and the oppressor gives insightful depth to the concept of power, how power is defined for people, and to what links some will go to possess it.

Instantly, Adeyemi’s unique and creative world-building establishes the setting as this YA fantasy dives deep into African folklore. Beautifully interwoven, from the map illustrated inside the sleeves of the hardback to the detailed, visual descriptions of the landscape, cities, and culture as the three main characters’ race and give chase to either resurrect or destroy magic once and for all.

Likewise, Adeyemi’s character development is utterly flawless I believe as readers will feel and care for Zelie, Amari, and Inan as their stories unfold and interconnect until the very end. Telling the many sides of oppression, Adeyemi uses her characters to articulate the unfortunate truth: evil is not always born, but raised. The instant connection and interaction between each character had me flying across the pages, wondering, hoping, laughing, and out of breath after every chapter. Adeyemi’s brilliant and subtle use of magic and how it correlated to Zelie, Amari, and Inan’s being and perspective kept me hooked and continuously wanting more.

I strongly found the most intriguing element of this well-written story is the unexpected insights as Adeyemi brings readers into a new, unique, and unchartered fantasy world. The thrill and depth to African culture and folklore sets this read apart from other YA novels, with its historical ties, conceptual depth, diverse characters, and distinct world.

Response:

The first time I read this book it was almost physically painful to stop, and the second time did not change that fact. It’s understandable why this novel has captured so many readers attention as it’s so special and different from most YA fantasy reads. I thoroughly loved the concept and use of oppression and power (i.e., magic) to further the story, yet the characters solidly controlled how the story progressed. Adeyemi created such authentic, relatable characters to life in a world I could never relate to. So brilliantly done, I’m thrilled the second book is finally publishing this December.

Conclusion:

Tomi Adeyemi’s world building, creative, authentic characters, and the magnificent insight of power and oppression isolates Children of Blood and Bone is a beautiful and necessary way. This imaginative, fast-paced story will grab readers from the first page, and leave them gasping at the twisted cliffhanger.

Citation:

Adeyemi, T. (2018). Children of blood and bone. New York, NY: Henry Holt and Company.

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GOD GAVE US YOU

Evaluation:

Lisa Tawn Bergren’s God Gave Us You is heartwarming, with the tender touch of love and honesty that parents have for their children. Beautiful in its simplistic storytelling, Little Cub learns the truth of her making through the loving bedtime story from Mama.

As any good bedtime story, Bergren establishes the mood of the encompassing parental love for Little Cub. Each passage, description, and lighthearted manner of how Little Cab came into the world will bring a smile to young and adult readers. A strong contributor to the established mood is the repetitive language as the title and main point of the story is written on almost every page. By continuous driving home to loving point that “God gave us you”, Little Cub accepts the reasoning behind Mama’s answers as she reiterates the blessing Little Cub is. The repetitive language leaves a wholesome, tender feeling throughout the story, though the religious aspect of the story is second to the main point. Similarly, Bergren does a wonderful job of creating depth with detail as illustrations describe the joy and love for Little Cub from other creatures in the story. As Mama describes her excitement as Little Cub grows in her stomach, Bergren illustrates the joy of the other forest animals in turn. Likewise, this furthers the established mood that articulates just how special and loved Little Cub is for whom God created her.

Response:

This tender-hearted, respectable, and loving read was beautiful to read, and left me feeling special. The attention to detail, the feeling of communal (i.e., the other animals) love, and the loving description Mama gave to Little Cub reminded me of how my mother described her love for me and God as a young girl. What I particularly liked about this read as though religious – and I would not say I am a religious person now – the focus story was to articulate the love between parent and child, and how each child is uniquely special as God intended.

Conclusion:

Tender and sincere, God Gave Us You by Lisa Tawn Bergren is a delightful, loving bedtime read for all young readers and parents. Illustrated beautifully, this story will have parents kiss their children with a little more love, and have kids smiling a little bit bigger as they fall asleep. A recommendation for all.

Citation:

Bergren, L. T. (2000). God gave us you. Colorado Springs, CO: WaterBrook Press.

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THE HATE U GIVE

Evaluation:

Inspiring, heart-wrenching, and brutally honest, The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a genuine portrayal of Starr as she is the sole witness of the fatal shooting of her young, Black male childhood friend by a police officer. Starr struggles as her two worlds collide, with family, friends, and her community demanding to be heard, Starr must find her own voice and stand up for what is right.

The Hate U Give navigates Starr’s opposing worlds by establishing the setting, as who she is at home in Garden Heights – a poor, African American neighborhood – compared to her life at Williamson Prep, a fancy, predominately white suburban school. Thomas explores the different aspects of Starr’s identity in both areas of her life, drawing to the realistic effect of white privilege, police brutality, and racial expectations. These settings play a strategic and unique part in Starr’s progression to understanding that to find her own voice she can’t meet the expectations of all.

Thomas’s characterization of Starr transitions throughout the book was soul inspiring in some of the most heartbreaking ways. Starr’s battle to come to terms with the manner of her childhood friend’s death brings the true intensity and realistic sorrow family, friends, and communities experience in the face of police brutality. Starr’s progression from silencing herself by separating her true selves in different parts of her life to standing up against her community, her inexperienced friends, and the societal controversy surrounding the loss and trial. Readers will undeniably hear Starr’s voice as she learns to speak up.

Response:

I cannot tell you how many people I have recommended this read too. From reading it when it was published in 2017 to present, Starr’s voice and story has still impacted my heart, soul, and worldview. Such a necessary story, as horribly realistic fiction comes to life, Thomas portrays the many sides to the controversy while staying true to the point: racial discrimination and police brutality are happening whether we keep silent or not.

Conclusion:

Gut-wrenching with beautiful authenticity, Angie Thomas’s The Hate U Give is highly-acclaimed for all the right and difficult reasons. After witnessing the death of her childhood friend, Starr must decide how to fight for what’s right, and most importantly how to fight for her voice and herself.

Citation:

Thomas, A. (2017). The hate u give. New York, NY: Balzer + Bray.

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TELL ME THREE THINGS

Evaluation:

What a fabulous, cute read! Julie Buxbaum’s Tell Me Three Things discusses the after-effects of grief, loss, and the possibilities for new beginnings. With honest characters with true emotions, Tell Me Three Things follows Jessie as she navigates her new life with the loss of her mother.

Blatantly, the unexpected insights in this YA contemporary read is a strong contender for the necessary perspective that people – no matter the age – grieve differently. Buxbaum’s story demonstrates how the loss of a loved one affects more than just the individual, but people external of their immediate grief. I thought how Jessie and her best friend from her hometown, Scarlett’s, relationship alters after the loss of Jessie’s mom articulated the value in connection, and how life may change but people can change and grow together.

Not only Jessie’s, but other characters as well (i.e., her father, SomebodyNobody, her friends), character development was written with such honesty and unfiltered emotion. Though her mother’s death is the main contributor to Jessie’s mindset, Buxbaum in weaves her grief so well throughout the story; it never takes a backseat, yet it doesn’t overtake Jessie’s own journey.

Arguably, Buxbaum’s honest and relatable dialogue between characters was the strong contributor to this contemporary read. Written with such a sincere voice, Jessie’s comments, questions, and thoughts will pull readers in, and have them laugh, snort, blush, and tear as Jessie’s relationship with SN, her old and new friends, rises and falls as she discovers who she is in her new life.

Response:

Kudos to Buxbaum for having me instantly hooked, as Jessie and SN’s personality shown through in just the first few pages with those email subject headers. I easily found myself laughing, smirking, blushing, and crying alongside Jessie as she navigated the loss of her mom, her new home, new relationships and friendships, and discovering who she is in her new, unexpected life. As predictable as the romance in this quick read was, I still found myself fully swooned at the end, as Jessie and Ethan’s connection was adorable, caring, and honest. Though the development between Jessie, her father, and her new stepmom, Rachel, left me wanting more of a resolution, or understanding between the three.

Conclusion:

Julie Buxbaum’s Tell Me Three Things is an honest and relatable portrayal of the many facets of grief, anger, and beginnings. This romantic contemporary read highights how life goes on, and we can learn to love again after losing a loved one. Beautiful, funny, and modern, this YA contemporary is great for junior and teen readers.

Citation:

Buxbaum, J. (2016). Tell me three things. New York, NY: Delacorte Press.

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THE PRINCESS SAVES HERSELF IN THIS ONE (Women Are Some Kind of Magic, #1)

Evaluation:

In The Princess Saves Herself in This One, Amanda Lovelace takes readers through her collection of heartbreaks, loss, rage, romance, and self-love poems. Through eloquent writing and heartfelt emotion, this poetic story is relatable, touching, and heartbreaking in each page.

Lovelace’s ability to capture my heart through each poem truly speaks to her talent as a writer and a poet. The consistent mood and tone for each section, the intentional emotion she portrayed struck me with each line. Her retelling of her own personal experiences in such a somber, honest, romantic way, it created such an authentic narrative, it was impossible not to feel all her pain, fury, butterflies per poem.

Personally, poems that change composition, order, flow, spacing of letters/words/lines capture my attention more so, which Lovelace does well and purposefully. Beautifully scripted, Lovelace’s intentional title at the end of each poem reads as if her last parting thoughts. The flow of each section, her transition from the princess, the damsel, the queen, and you, Lovelace journey’s through a delicate, relatable story that unfortunately too many young women can connect with.

Response:

I have been meaning to read The Princess Saves Herself in This One ever since I randomly followed Amanda Lovelace on Tumblr because I fell in love with her online poems. Her words touched me then, and they did not disappoint in her first novel. There is something so authentically pleasing and heartbreaking about her words that struck me, in a way most poetry does not. Reading her online poetic thoughts, the digital diary-esque place for her honest emotions and experiences many years ago to seeing the confident, articulate author made this an even more enjoyable and raw read.

Conclusion:

Amanda Lovelace captures readers in her poetic novel The Princess Saves Herself in This One offering her soul and own personal experiences, throughout loss, heartbreak, assault, abuse, love, and self-compassion. With raw intensity and brutal honesty, this collection of poems is great for young adult readers or older.

Citation:

Lovelace, A. (2016). The princess saves herself in this one. CreateSpace.

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ESPERANZA RISING

Evaluation:

What a beautiful, historical read. In Pam Muñoz Ryan���s Esperanza Rising, the story of Esperanza’s journey from her life in Mexico to the United States during the 1930s. Eloquently written, the meaning of family – la familia – heavily impacts the narrative and self-discovery of Esperanza’s journey.

A wonderful element throughout the story is the influence of figurative language, as Esperanza creates her home in the Californian labor camp. I was easily captured by the flow of the narrative and dialogue, as Esperanza compares and slowly acceptances the different terrain and lifestyle in California. The subtle element of Esperanza meaning “hope”, interlaced with the mystical creature the rising phoenix in the title was a heartwarming touch. Similarly, the unexpected insights were a major element in the story’s progression, and in Esperanza’s self-journey. The written depth and care about the authentic aspects of what labor camps in the 1930s created a sense of honesty and sadness, as the historical truth influenced Esperanza’s compassion and understanding.

Above all, Esperanza’s character development was the most significant factor in the story. The depth to her character growth was as eye-opening for Esperanza as it was for the reader, it was written so well. The noticeable change in her perception and emotion from arriving in California, laying on the ground, feeling lost, compared to her heart feeling anchored at the end of the story created such an joyful, finality feeling as a reader.

Response:

Having heard stories of when my Italian family migrated to New York during the 1930s, Esperanza Rising gave me a sense of relatability, but also an understanding of how different the experience was for different families, different ethnicities, and different areas of the U.S. Reading the struggle Esperanza’s family endured to create a life for themselves had a similar feeling to the stories I grew up hearing about my Italian great-grandparents’ journey.

Conclusion:

Pam Muñoz Ryan’s Esperanza Rising is an inspiring, heartwarming, and historically accurate story, giving readers the sense of a young girl’s journey as she creates and discovers her new life. With the emphasis on family and the historical aspects, this fictional, informative story is a great read for juniors and teens.

Citation:

Ryan, P. M. (2000). Esperanza Rising. New York, NY: Scholastic Press.

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I AM ENOUGH

Evaluation:

I firmly believe there are some books that are long overdue, as their message should’ve been written long ago, and are so welcomed once they finally arrive: I Am Enough by Grace Byers, illustrated by Keturah Bobo, is one of those books. The power and influence such simple words and illustrations this book provides is magical for any young girl, child, and parent while reading. Simple in its form, yet complex as the overall message is much more powerful. The intention of each rhyme, lyrical message, and purposeful representation are elements that make this a necessary read for all readers.

The music in language element is a major component to the artistry of the story. The repetition of dialogue, yet change in scene, purpose, and message connects readers to the lyrical element. Each comparison reinforces the difference and uniqueness in such a positive light, I felt overwhelming refreshed reading such encouragement for young girls. Likewise, the depth and range of each comparison, thus the limitless ability and beauty of each girl was a resounding, necessary message.

Bobo illustrate the attention to detail in the art and depth of each represented girl in the story. This message, this purposeful detail is heavily undervalued in past and modern literature, though the awareness and importance is increasing growing. The uniqueness and beauty of each individual girl, emphasizing the difference in race/ethnicity, natural hair, religion, ability, creates such a welcoming and inspiring element to the story.  

In combination with the above elements, Byers and Bobo are able to establish the mood, such as the value of difference in individuality, and the encouragement of being supportive despite those differences. I Am Enough inspires the beauty of defining our own expectations and standards of whom we want to be, and supporting and loving one another. The caring positivity is a welcomed and necessary mood for young readers, no matter the gender, as we could always be a bit more supportive, encouraging, and loving.

Response:

Easy to say, I am an absolute fan of everything about this book. Byers and Bobo provide so many important and undervalued elements, thus creating such a powerful and needed story. The representation, positive message, and supportive girl-power mood are all important things young readers – boys and girls – need to be reminded of, and supportive of. Personally, I wish something with this potential message was written when I was young, as the influence such simplistic beautiful words and art could have affected my confidence, identity, and supportive nature later in my life.

Conclusion:

Illustrating and uplifting the unique differences of every girl, Byers and Bobo’s I Am Enough is a necessary read for every young girl, sister, and mom. Positively inspiring, every child and parent could certainly benefit from a quick read, as one can never have enough encouragement and support in being who are you. A definite recommendation for all ages and genders.

Citation:

Byers, G. and Bobo, K. A. (2018). I am enough. New York, NY: HarperCollins Children’s Books.

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WITCHES: THE ABSOLUTELY TRUE TALE OF DISASTER IN SALEM

Evaluation:

Masterful in its retelling of horrendous truths, Witches: The Absolutely True Tale of Disaster in Salem by Rosalyn Schanzer is an uncomfortable fact of our American history. Told with accurate depth, unfortunate sincerity, and necessary bluntness, Schanzer discusses the timeline of the true stories that lead the Salem Witch Trials. Depicting multiple narratives, historical facts, and the mysterious cause of the frightening witch hunting epidemic, readers will be captivated, disturbed, and left curious with another dark moment in the foundation of America.

Schanzer’s eerie and ghastly illustrations certainly sets the mood with color in the recanting of history of Salem. The intention of white as the purity or of innocence, while shades of black and deep red depicting the devilish or demonic nature of witches, was a simplistic touch in which creates a depth to the dark and fearful aura surrounding Salem. Schanzer also grants readers with an illustrated character directory, giving accurate representation and further depth to the characters as they are progressed in the story.

Furthermore, Schanzer provides accurate insight with valid resources and information texts, that provide more clarity to the political and emotional elements that deeply affected the reasoning and end to the trials. A major contribution to these insights is Schanzer’s use of the shocking quotations from characters, letters, and sermons that bewitched an entire town into fear, false accusations, and murder. Schanzer does not shy from the undeniable horror of America’s past, yet discusses the informational aspect in an engaging and informative way, it’s hard not to be captivated by accuracy of the book.

Response:

Last time I discussed or learned anything about the Salem Witch Trials was many, many years ago, and in a much less interactive, engaging way. The horrendous truth of our American past is not something I shy from, but I never took my own personal time to look further into the depth of this specific past event, and though I felt shocked by the historical aspect of it, I felt indifferent to learn more. After reading Witches, I am more thoroughly intrigued to understand more of the contextual elements that lead to such a panicked epidemic from such a specific community. Schanzer does a wonderfully job of informing the reader, but keeping the melancholy tone, as this is definite blight in our history. The effects of politics, emotional greed, and dangerous family conflict was almost scary as it’s still three relatable aspects that deeply influence our world today.

Conclusion:

With captivating accuracy, informative narrative, and the eerie tone of a sadden period in America’s past, Witches: The Absolutely True Tale of Disaster in Salem is an engaging text, that will bring readers of appropriate ages to question and wonder the horrific truths in our history.

Citation:

Schanzer, R. (2011). Witches: The absolutely true tale of disaster in salem. Washington, D.C.: National Geographic Society.