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Freshman Year perfectly captures the surreal nature and bewildering independence that comes with the first year of college—a time so unique unto itself. Brought back many forgotten sense memories I know I’ll never experience in quite the same way again, but I have always wanted to remember. Thank you, Sarah!
Heather
Now in paperback and soon to be a Netflix film starring Millie Bobbie Brown! In this feminist, suspenseful thriller the daughter of a con artist is taken hostage in a bank heist—and will need to tap into all her skills in order to survive.
A FORBES, BUZZFEED, BOOK RIOT AND KIRKUS BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR
Bianca Torre witnesses a murder while birdwatching (a real one, not a bunch of crows) and gets wrapped up in a conspiracy that's stranger than they could have imagined in this fun, lightly campy thriller. I loved this book about an anxious queer person trying to figure out who they are and what it means to be brave—whether that's running from plague-masked weirdos or talking to their crush. Hard to say which is scarier.
Timothy
Ariel is the quiet artist who dreams of going to the same art program her dad was in and working at the local bookshop just might be the answer to getting in. While Trey is the popular guy in college that everyone loves who works at his family owned bookstore, Wonderland. But when Trey learns that his family's bookstore is on the verge of shutting down due to gentrification, Trey and Ariel team up and do everything in their power to try and save it. Follow along in their enemies-to-lovers journey and fall in love with their witty banter and heartwarming chemistry.
Jess
Miuko is a bit too loud to be respectable, but all she wants is a quiet life—until a curse begins turning her into a demon and she sets out to reverse it with the help of a trickster magpie. What starts out as a fairly traditional fantasy story becomes a time- and mind-bending tour de force thanks to Chee's storytelling that upends the tropes of the genre. I went from, "I like this fine," to "this is one of the best fantasy books I've ever read" with a single turn of the page...
Timothy
Glitz! Glamor! Action! Adventure! Crime! Romance! This book has it all plus twists galore and stakes that are sky- high. 17-year-old Ross Quest knows not to trust anyone. When her mother is kidnapped, she enters a dangerous heist competition to get her back. The winner gets a wish—if they can survive—but to win, Ross may have to put her faith in someone else. I could hardly put down this fast-paced thriller.
Timothy
Wow. Just, wow. What a gem of a fantasy book! This book will entirely take you away to China’s capital, a city run by gold. There, we follow Fan Zilan as she continues her journey in becoming a royal alchemist, something she’s dreamed of, and also potentially falling for a duck-loving prince. But all is not what it seems. There’s a darkness in this rich city and secrets we soon discover. A page turner indeed!
Mayah
A magical school full of hidden passageways and centuries-old secrets, and a nonbinary spellcaster from an arcane bloodline determined to uncover them all. This dark academia/fantasy tale gripped me to the very last word. It was so exciting to get lost in the fantastical world of Bellamy Arts, even more so because it truly made me feel like this magic was for everyone, that there would be a place for me and people like me there.
Bo
Throughout this entire book I was picturing a sweeping sci-fi anime series in my head. I’m actually shocked that this is a debut novel for the author, because it was so good. All the scientific analysis in the book had the biology major in me geeking out. And the rich Japanese culture and folklore had me reminiscing about my time in Tokyo. Know a science nerd who loves anime? Pick this one up.
Anna
Who wouldn’t want to get a peek into the high school mind of one of their favorite artists?? Perusing Phoebe’s Diary felt like reading my own journal entries at age 16—cringey, angsty, but also tender and endearing. Join Phoebe as she navigates the throes of being a high school theater kid in the early 2000s—complete with Myspace, indie rock concerts, fake cigarettes, and of course, the real centerpiece: boys boys BOYS. :-)
Heather
The Prince & the Coyote is mix of historical fiction, early Mexican folklore, and actual fact. All this is somehow perfectly paired with Mijangos’s stunning illustrations, making a book about war, betrayal, and gruesome death oddly beautiful. Including the main character’s actual translated poetry makes it a truly epic undertaking that cannot be placed in any one genre. I am floored by Bowles’s ability to wrangle all of this into such an immersive work.
Anna
Hearing this graphic novel described as “Practical Magic meets Fast and Furious” was an instant seller for me. But this historical fiction-meets-fantasy story is so much more than that. With a whole coven’s worth of loveable characters, this book takes some of the most underrepresented communities in history and shows them casting magic spells while competing in illegal broom races. I can’t think of many things cooler than that!
Bo
In an eerie reimagining of Victorian London, ghosts are all too real, and communication with them has been commodified by the patriarchal Royal Speaker Society. This gothic horror story with bite features a trans and autistic protagonist (in a time before there were words for either), T4T romance, angry ghosts, and loads of extremely ...medical body horror. This book made me absolutely feral and if you don't read it, I'll haunt you forever.
Bo
Do you have what it takes to fight ghosts? Sever the connection between soul and body? What about the ability to manipulate iron and bend it to your will? Yeah, me either. BUT our super awesome protagonist, Wren, and the very handsome and intriguing iron smith who accompanies her, Julian, has all and more. This fantasy young adult novel has truly captivated my attention and I could not put this book down. 10/10 stars!
Mayah
This book is as warm and cozy as a fresh apple cider donut! Pumpkinheads drops us into Halloween night at the pumpkin patch, where friends Josiah and Deja are spending their final seasonal shift as high school seniors together. Will either of them be able to say goodbye to this place and these people in a meaningful way? And how do you make your last shift, taking place on Halloween night, the most memorable and magical one yet? I love re-reading this romantic little book every year to get into the Halloween spirit!
Heather
Jessica Mathers begrudgingly accepts a post on a ship orbiting a desolate planet, simply there to observe and be closer to her scientist parents. After teleporting, she instead wakes up on the planet, in a lander covered in bloody handprints. And surrounded by fresh graves. Star Splitter had me asking, "What exactly is going on here?" throughout the entire book. Perfect for those who like their science fiction on the spookier side.
Anna
When Mateo and his family make the difficult decision to start his journey back to the United States to continue living the "American Dream", he's in for more than he bargained for. What seemed like an easy expedition is made more difficult when Mateo encounters ICE... that is until he meets the ghost of Guillermo! With Guillermo guiding Mateo back to the US, will he make it safe to go home to his abuela? You'll have to read on to find out!
Jess
Jessica Mathers begrudgingly accepts a post on a ship orbiting a desolate planet, simply there to observe and be closer to her scientist parents. After teleporting, she instead wakes up on the planet, in a lander covered in bloody handprints. And surrounded by fresh graves. Star Splitter had me asking, "What exactly is going on here?" throughout the entire book. Perfect for those who like their science fiction on the spookier side.
JENNA
Looking for a slice-of-life story? Yotsuba&! is a classic for a good reason! You’ll have to search pretty hard to find a cuter, more wholesome, and comforting read than this. Did I mention it’s funny, too? If you grew up reading Amelia Bedelia, you’ll love green-haired, new-kid-in-town, Yotsuba. She’s (more than) a little clueless and endlessly confuses her new neighbors. Her exploits are sure to leave a smile on your face and leave you feeling a little extra gooey inside.
Jenna
This young adult novel stars two sister-friends navigating their magical identities, or trying to figure them out. This book offers a lot of thought provoking conversations on race and misogynoir, as one of the sisters is a siren: a species that only happens to appear in Black women, offering a very specific set of stigmas. This story is all about the power of finding your voice and knowing when to use it.
Tori
A brilliantly-written series of small vignettes painting the picture of Esperanza: a Latina girl growing up and the community of people around her. Some chapters made me cry, some made me laugh, others made me angry and uneasy, while some put a content smile on my face. So many lessons for readers of all ages can be learned through this book. Each chapter is so attention-grabbing and beautifully written you will want to read them all in one sitting.
Tori
Wild Rumpus' hottest new young adult novel is here. This book has everything: mystery, romance, Hollywood glamour, and a sprinkle of supernatural to top it all off. You'll surely be up all night trying to finish this fast-paced, well-written book in one go. With a strong female lead, this feminist murder mystery novel will leave you wanting more. (In that case, read Kulper's first novel, Murder for the Modern Girl - it's excellent too!)
Anastasia
Written originally for his wife, Sanderson brings another one of his signature fantasy worlds to life in this fairy-tale-like novel. Tress is an ordinary girl who must brave dangerous seas in order to save her love from captivity, meeting all sorts of unique characters along the way. Reminiscent of The Princess Bride, this pleasant story will whisk you away into the emerald-tinged world of Tress and her crew.
Anastasia
On the night that Cameron Post has her first kiss with a girl, her parents die suddenly in a car accident. Grappling with grief, she can't help but connect the two events--or feel some relief that her parents will never find out about her feelings for girls. She is sent to live with her aunt and grandmother in the conservative town of Miles City, Montana, where she struggles to fit in, as well as conceal the growing love she feels for her friend Coley Taylor. When her aunt finds out and takes drastic measures, Cameron's sense of identity will be tested. This queer coming-of-age novel broke my heart, and then rebuilt it.
Bo
This is a summer-camp slasher story with a twist that will make you drop the book and scream "What?!?!" I loved the subversion of classic horror tropes; with a Black final girl, a queer love interest, a sensitive and unproblematic himbo jock, and plenty of meta nods to the stereotypical slasher story and its plot-holes.
Bo
Chloe is excited to enjoy her last summer in the Philippines before going abroad for college, but her Dad and Aunt throw a wrench in her plans when they set Chloe up on a series of dates. From her crush, her best friend’s boyfriend, to her best friend’s brother, Chloe’s kaishao boys are more than she was ready for. I loved how summery and fun this was, and if you’re looking for a swoony & sweet romance with a boy-next-door vibe, and a vulnerable story about chasing your dreams—especially when they lead you away from the people and place you love— don’t miss this fantastic YA rom-com!
Jenna
If cottagecore could be wrapped up into a young adult novel, this would be it. Mingled with witchcraft, wizards, woodsy baking (including a lot of scones) and the start of a light love interest, this fantasy is perfect for any light summer read. Sprouting from each page are flowers of all types, indicating the many moods and emotions of Clara, our determined but not quite successful protagonist….until you read on. A fun read!
Mayah
Told through narrative, letters, and pictures. This story intertwines the lives of both Shannon Gibney and Erin Powers: the person she would have been if she wasn’t adopted. This part memoir, part speculative fiction novel touches on the complicated reality of finding truth within your identity and how contradictory realities can all be real. Written specifically from a mixed race adoptee perspective, I think anyone would find something they resonate within this gripping and beautifully written book.
Tori
This book has such a special place in my heart! Being a first-generation Mexican-American, I found myself relating to SO much to this graphic novel. The in-between feelings that come with being first-generation, the guilt of being able to go somewhere that a loved one might not be able to go to, and of course the eternal love for pan dulce. This memoir will have you wanting to book the next flight over to Mexico and live in the lively culture.
Jess
A much needed coming-of-age story about Effie, a disabled girl with cerebral palsy who is trying to navigate her senior year of high school, which means she’s also searching for the right college; however, accessibility concerns are foiling her plans. With her friends (and her crush) she advocates for wheelchair users in her community and beyond. Written by a disabled local Minnesota author who is passionate about breaking down physical and attitudinal barriers of society towards disabled people. Effie is badass and you’ll be cheering her on the whole way.
Beth
When Jade travels to Vietnam for the summer to help her distant father restore a French colonial home in exchange for the money she needs to go to college, she quickly discovers that all is not well there. She and her family are plagued by terrifying dreams, infestations of bugs, food that mysteriously rots...and a ruthless ghost protecting its home. This gothic horror story of colonialism quickened my pulse and turned my stomach.
Bo
Take your pick of tropes: rivals-to-lovers, homoerotic tension (in a sports setting), forced proximity—You Don’t Have a Shot has them all. Tropes aside—though Marie’s sophomore novel executes them in fun and flawless fashion—this book is worth your time because of its main character’s relatable struggles. Valentina, “Vale,” worries about college, grapples with the expectations she’s put on herself, makes mistakes in her friendships and treatment of those around her, and undergoes an admirable journey of self-reflection and growth.
Jenna
Heartstopper fans, this is for you! If you think a love triangle is full of drama and angst, then how about a love square? It already feels too complicated to sum up here…so I’ll skip the finer plot details and focus on the ~feelings~ instead. While there might be plenty of miscommunications and misunderstandings abound in this series, its heart lies in the love and friendship all these characters have for one another—even amidst the tangled web of secrets, crushes, and relationships they find themselves in. After all, childhood friendships, best friendships, surely these are strong enough to withstand the trials and tribulations of love?
Jenna
Sometimes a found family is an undercover spy (Dad), a highly trained assassin (Mom), their (unbeknownst to them) mind-reading adopted daughter, and a clairvoyant dog. Spy x Family is full of satirical humor, numerous spy-movie references, and action-packed fight scenes, but the real charm lies with the (fake) family bonding moments, and you’ll be rooting for Loid and Yor’s fake marriage-of-convenience to turn into something a little more.
Jenna
It’s easy to pick up this series and think you’re reading a trippy but disturbing & gory horror story about a teenage boy’s misadventure of a lifetime, wherein he develops an emotional attachment to his (possibly sinister, definitely age inappropriate) boss and kills devils for a living. You’d be halfway right, but the heart of this story lies within an unexpected (if a bit dysfunctional) found family, dark—but truthful—depictions of healthy vs harmful love, an adorable devil dog, and of course, lots of chainsaws.
Jenna
*Minnesota author!* A spare, moving story about two Bribri (Indigenous Costa Rican) brothers living in rural Minnesota who are navigating the aftermath of committing a violent act and reckoning with the violence they have suffered themselves. Jay's story is told in prose vignettes, Max's in gorgeous verse. I loved rooting for these boys as they interrupt cycles of abuse and learn to love each other for who they are, not the facades they created.
Timothy
Calling all sapphics, Ao3 users, and YA fans: 6 Times We Almost Kissed is a perfect amalgamation of all your favorite tropes, with a dash of emotional turmoil thrown in that will leave you crying AND feeling warm and cozy by the time you finish this book. With everything from fake dating to 5 + 1 (except it’s 6 +1), you might be worried this book will feel trope-y or cliché, but Tess Sharpe masterfully executes these tropes so that they feel brand new; this book is one of the best YA contemporaries I’ve read in a while.
Jenna
Hello...You. For fans of the Netflix series, this chilling book is sure to leave you both satisfied and disturbed. Rafi, a photographer for her high school yearbook, finds herself infatuated with the resident golden couple. Slowly but surely, she masterminds her way into their lives, and her obsession with the couple grows deeper the closer she gets to them. You're sure to get wrapped up in this unreliable narrator's twisted mind. Say hello to your newest obsession.
Bo
A Coretta Scott King Award winner AND a local author AND a story set here in lovely Minneapolis. This book is so beautifully written in two very distinct voices of Audre and Mabel. Audre moves from Trinidad after her mother discovers her first love is another girl. She finds refuge in her new friend Mabel and the raspberries she grows in her parent's garden. This book explores Blackness, spirituality, love, inter-generational relationships, and the predictable promise of death. This book wraps so many complex themes in eloquent and vivid words.
Tori
Ok, I know what you're thinking: This book is scary because it's about a clown. Well you're wrong. This book is scary because the reader has no idea who is safe, who is lying, or who is absolutely psychotic. The main protagonist is easy to rally with, and is braver than I would be. Pick this up if you like to be spooked, are interested in cults, and aren't quite trusting of your elders...
Anna
This beautiful–if heartbreaking–story of two young girls who share a love of drawing manga is a captivating oneshot about arrogant Fujino and withdrawn Kyomoto, and how their friendship alters their lives’ trajectories. When life goes off track, Fujino takes a “look back” to imagine what might’ve been if she’d made different choices. This is a story that will whisper around in your thoughts for weeks after reading it; Fujimoto’s paneling and art is stunning and in so few pages captures many emotions: jealousy, pride, grief, love, and hope.
Jenna
A book filled with cutesy, lovey short stories? I’m in! This is the perfect book to get you out of your reading funk. Rowell knows how to write a love story and leave you wanting more. I seriously wish that at least four of these short stories were full-on novels because I was just so captivated by the characters and the charm they all shared.
Jess
If you can't get enough of the Heartstopper graphic novels (and let's be real, if you've read them, this applies to you), you'll love this sweet novella set later on in Nick and Charlie's love story. Struggles with school, family, and coming to terms with a long-distance relationship are all addressed with the most gentle, sentimental touch that we've come to know and love from Alice Oseman's books.
Bo
This short, beautifully written, young adult novel is a bit magical, a bit futuristic, and very captivating. When a creature comes out of the main character, Jam's, mother's painting her world is turned upside down. She is suddenly keeping things from her parents and reconsidering all of the people in her life. This story is entangled with the search for truth, monsters, and the truth about monsters lurking closer than anyone expected.
Tori
This graphic novel is a sweet page-turner and one I wish I had when I was in High School. Our main character is a 15 year-old who can't wait to finish High School, move away from her small island hometown, and finally admit the secret she's been hiding from her "best friends." The secret however slowly reveals itself as she meets a cute selkie (think mermaid but instead of part fish, she's one with the seals) who Morgan is destined to fall in love with. Queer and magical... yes please!
Tori
You don’t have to be interested in 80’s music, surfing, or Rumi to be moved by this beautiful novel-in-verse about a 13-year-old girl standing on the threshold between childhood and young adulthood. Ava feels cut off from both her mother’s Persian culture and the American culture that surrounds her but won't accept her. Then her best friend’s cancer returns and she’s cut off from him, too. A powerful book about growth and belonging.
Timothy
This book is so, so funny. An angel and a demon who are Talmud study partners? Terrific, A+, no notes. Just straight up a Jewish Good Omens for the 21st Century! But it’s also a searching examination of migration, labor, and queerness. In other words? A superb book on every level. I can't shut up about how much I love it.
Timothy
I Must Betray You was a life-changing find for me. This piece of hidden history was alarmingly recent, and the depths of its impact are still felt today. As an adopted Romanian born right around the time of these events, it’s a look into a world that I am both connected to and separated from. This piece of historical fiction is about how your enemy on the outside can become your enemy on the inside, and how to fight back when you yourself have become what you feared the most.
Heather
Georgia Richter can talk to ghosts. She lives above her family's funeral home, which she and her twin brother are expected to run someday. When she wakes the ghost of a classmate who died tragically, it sets off a series of events that grow out of her control, forcing her to confront her grief and reexamine her relationships. The characters are vividly drawn and the sadness and angst are real, but ultimately Funeral Girl is about learning to live.
Timothy
Did you watch Midsommar and think to yourself “This is good, but what if it was gay?” Then this one’s for you. An idyllic rich-kid summer camp, rigidly enforced gender roles, an enigmatic mean girl clique, and some DEEPLY weird stuff going on with bees, this book is a dizzy romp of sun-soaked terror.
Bo
I didn’t know I needed The Hunger Games–but with a queer cast of characters and an epic fantasy world of gods and semidioses inspired by the ancient Mexican pantheon–until I had it and loved it. I adored funny, kind-hearted, and troublemaker Teo, and my heart was racing til the very end of the Trials rooting for Teo and his friends.
Jenna
Benji, a trans boy, has escaped from a doomsday cult that released an apocalyptic plague on the world, wiping out most of the population. In the wake of the Armageddon, he finds chosen family—plus a big gay crush—in the LGBTQ+ youth group that's managed to survive the destruction. Benji must fight for his life, and to control the monster taking over his body as a result of the bioweapon the cult infected him with. I'm not gonna lie: it's Hell in there, it's horror- and I loved every word!
Bo
This sensational contemporary fantasy debut turns a new page on Arthurian legend, melding the myth with demons, magical bloodlines, familial history and legacy, and secret societies. This epic fantasy adventure finds its heart in Bree Matthews; while she struggles with the grief of losing her mother she infiltrates the Legendborn–descendants of King Aruthur’s knights–and is forced to decide whether to take down the people she believes responsible for her mother’s death, or join the fight against demons.
Jenna
Brendan Kiely does a terrific job articulating both why it’s hard for white people to discuss race, and also the absolute necessity of having those conversations. He approaches this thorny subject from a place of humility, writing candidly about his own mistakes, even touching on the ways gender and class impact how we talk about race. The Other Talk offers paths away from white guilt and into the more productive conversations that can be had when white folks accept that we’re responsible for building a racially equitable world.
Timothy
This has quickly become my favorite romance/queer manga; filled with all the tropes you can expect like ridiculous should-be-easy-to-solve miscommunications, love triangles (squares?), blurted out confessions, and more–this series has a fantastic blend between humor and charm. Ultimately sweet and tender, this is a hilarious tale of romance gone wrong and right, and the joys of high school friendships and hijinks. For fans of Blue Flag and Monthly Girls’ Nozaki-Kun.
Jenna
Coco is a girl with a simple dream: she wants to be a witch. But everyone knows you can’t learn to be a witch; you must be born a witch–and Coco wasn’t. Then, one day, she meets the mysterious Qifrey and discovers her dream might still be possible. Paired with stunning art and breathtaking, creative paneling, this series will remind you why we love magic and whimsy. As the manga continues, meet more witches, and discover the broader world Coco has at her fingertips–the scary parts of it along with the wonder and joy.
Jenna
You think playing a game of Scrabble with your family gets intense? You haven’t added a murder mystery into the mix yet! I was on the edge of my seat reading Najwa’s struggle to unravel the truth of her best friend’s death, all while fighting to claim a symbolic victory in a Scrabble competition and trying to heal.
Jenna
This is the first book in my favorite fantasy series of all time and my coworkers are so sick of hearing me talk about it. Please buy it so I have someone to rave about it with. It’s got magical bells that prevent terrifying Dead creatures from returning to life and one of the coolest protagonists I’ve ever met. There’s also a talking cat that’s more than meets the eye, so like what else do you want? This book rules.
Timothy
For fans of Paper Towns, McQuiston’s first foray into YA is an absolutely engrossing and thrilling read. Shara Wheeler is missing and Chloe Green is out to find her, following her mysterious trail of pink letters and desperate to prove there’s more to Shara than meets the eye. An arresting portrayal of the blended line between repression, obsession, and queer yearning, all framed within the experience of being queer in a religious, Southern environment.
Jenna
If you’ve ever experienced Catholic guilt or gay panic–especially a combination of the two–then you won’t want to miss this book! Yami’s mission to survive Catholic school while looking out for her brother and making her mom proud is a searing story about the (repeated) process of coming out, familial bonds, and most importantly: love in all its forms.
Jenna
In a cultural moment defined by conversations about bodily autonomy, Jessie Burton’s spare, meditative retelling of the myth of Medusa and Perseus feels both ancient and urgently contemporary. Told in first-person from Medusa’s perspective, Burton’s adaptation introduces two teenagers attempting to shake their destinies and step out of the shadow of powerful gods. Olivia Lomenech Gill’s haunting illustrations make this a gorgeous vessel that holds a hard, but stunningly told story.
Timothy
Buffy-heads, rejoice! This fanfiction-y spinoff takes us back to Sunnydale, where the next generation’s Slayer has been born: Frankie Rosenberg, daughter of powerful witch Willow and the world’s very first Slayer-Witch. With the help of Scooby Gang members old and new, it’s Frankie’s turn to take up the mantle. This book is great for both newbies or fans of the show! With quippy dialogue and plenty of vamp slaying, this is a delightfully nostalgic read.
Bo
Bastián and Lore met when they were younger — before Lore knew their name, before Bastián knew how to calm their spiraling thoughts. Years later, their experience together in the magical world beneath the lake comes back—as do the memories each of them have tried to bury. They learn to manage Bastián’s ADHD and Lore’s dyslexia, give one another “gender forecasts,” and try to keep the lake from rising. Come for the nonbinary romance, stay for the beautifully supportive, accepting families.
Timothy
Squire has everything I love in a fantasy graphic novel: stunning illustration, page-turning action, compelling characters, and a richly built world. Determined to make a better life, Aiza joins the ranks of the Empire to become a knight. But when her Ornu heritage comes into conflict with the aims of the ever-expanding Empire, Aiza must come to terms with what it means to find her place. One of my favorite reads of the year so far!
Claire
Looking for a great series to binge? Try Tahir’s searing quartet inspired by ancient Rome and Middle Eastern mythology/folklore! This series contains a spellbinding, slow-burn love story, expansive and captivating world-building, and an unflinching portrayal of the costs of imperialism and oppression. Laia remains the core of the story amidst the upheaval of an empire: she starts her journey as a spy for the rebellion and as the series continues she’ll face war, loss, and the daunting question of what it’ll take to save the people she loves.
Jenna
Under the roof of Himawari House three young women from different countries will fall in love, have their hearts broken, struggle with language barriers, miss their families, and grapple with their sense of identity. Nao, Hyejung, and Tina are all foreign exchange students in Tokyo, while they share the same home they will find solace in their friendship and experience the joys–and difficulties–of adjusting to life in Japan. This is a gorgeous graphic novel about finding your family, making mistakes and growing, and figuring out what makes you happy.
Jenna
This charming series–now a Netflix show–with a wonderful ensemble of friends navigating school, relationships, and growing up has been a favorite of mine for years; it’s impossible not to fall in love with the main characters, Nick and Charlie, as they become friends. It’s not long before Nick begins to question if he might be bisexual, and soon a romance blooms between him and Charlie. Following Nick and Charlie’s relationship as they grow, deal with mental illness, and unavoidable high school drama is a heart-warming and emotional journey.
Jenna
Looking for a book that captures the feeling of watching a Studio Ghibli movie like Spirited Away? Look no further than this retelling of “The Tale of Shim Cheong” that’s a captivating story about fate and fighting to forge your own path. Follow Mina as she dives beneath the sea and into the Spirit Realm in an effort to wake the Sea God and save her home, and fall in love with this stunning novel and its themes of family and duty, love and hope, and redemption and forgiveness.
Jenna
Hani’s a popular girl at school–until she comes out to her friends as bisexual and they invalidate her sexuality, and, in a moment of panic, Hani lies about dating Ishu Dey, their grade’s best student. You can expect all the fun–and angst–that comes with fake-dating, but this novel adds a fresh breath of air to the trope with its nuanced portrayal of two queer Bengali girls navigating coming out and confronting racism in their predominately white school. Bonus points for the audiobook, excellently narrated with Hani and Ishu’s Irish accents.
Jenna
Vanja can’t *entirely* blame the curse she’s under on her godmothers Death and Fortune, but her upbringing might’ve been a factor…A captivating retelling of The Goose Girl–told from the villainous maid’s perspective–featuring curses and gods, angry girls, and a boy who’s the “human embodiment of a pocket ledger.” Funny and heart-breaking in equal measure and filled with heists, sleuthing, and even a bit of romance, Little Thieves is a masterclass in world-building, snarky characters, and there’s really nothing not to love about this dark fantasy.
Jenna
Ophelia is a romantic: she loves her rose garden, Cuban food, her friends, and she loves love. But Ophelia feels lost when, after always crushing on boys, she starts thinking about a girl. Who is Ophelia if not the girl who loves boys, if she’s not the same girl her parents and friends know? A vulnerable and tender novel about what it’s like to question your future, your sexuality, and your sense of self. Come ready to cry but enjoy the beautifully affirming and loving nature of this fantastic debut.
Jenna
Ever wondered what it would be like to wake up in another person’s body? Well, that’s the reality for ‘A’. Every single day ‘A’ wakes up and lives the life of someone new. It’s been their reality ever since they could remember and they have fully accepted it until they meet someone who they really connect with, Rhiannon. But what happens when the 24 hours is up and ‘A’ switches bodies? Be prepared to stay up all night to find out if ‘A’ will ever see Rhiannon again.
Jess
Hur stuns with her historical fiction once again: this is a gripping murder mystery set in 18th century Korea filled with slippery villains and the dark shadows of corruption that had me turning the pages with bated breath to see what would happen next, combined with a brilliantly tender romance. You’ll be rooting for Hyeon and Eojin to survive the politics of the palace and find the murderer before it’s too late, and for their burgeoning bond to become something more.
Jenna
Iron Widow is a fantastical, queer science fiction reimagining of the only female emperor in Chinese history, following her journey from peasanthood to power as she fights her way into piloting the empire’s most powerful mecha Chrysalis. In a patriarchal society, Wu Zetian’s story carves a fiery path filled with romance and defiance wherein she isn’t afraid to bend the system to her will and agenda, and she’ll do whatever’s necessary to get her due.
Jenna
There's a gonzo-like energy to Darcie Little Badger’s A Snake Falls to Earth. Nina is trying to solve the mystery of her great-grandmother’s story told in a dying language that may or may not involve her family’s link to the spirit world. Meanwhile, Oli, who lives in that spirit world, is trying to solve a mystery of his own in order to save his friend. Original world-building and unforgettable characters fill this dynamic novel about home, family, and friendship.
Timothy
Any fan of Greek mythology won’t want to miss this contemporary, stylish reimagining of one of the most infamous Greek myths – Hades and Persephone. In this modern Olympus, Persephone is new to Olympus and is forced to navigate scandals, gossip, politics, and forbidden love. A story of finding one’s place and one’s power, this graphic novel has a captivating story and gorgeous art with both distinctive style and a vibrant pink/blue color scheme.
Jenna
An action-packed read with unexpected twists and an enemies-to-lovers romance you’re sure to love, the tale of Robin Hood dons a new look in this YA fantasy. Apothecary apprentice Tessa refuses to watch her neighbors die as a mysterious sickness spreads through Kandala. Instead, she secretly distributes stolen Moonflower elixir – even if she risks execution. After revolution arises, Tessa is further embroiled into the politics and rebellion that are taking Kandala by storm.
Jenna
Bugz is one of the top players of a global AR video game, thanks to her in-game use of her Anishinaabe culture. Feng, an Uyghur boy who plays as part of a rival “clan,” moves to the Rez from China to get away from an ever more threatening government. Both of them must learn to set aside their preconceptions: of each other, the world at large, and their own cultures. Kinew’s YA debut is generous and well-paced. I loved this book from start to finish.
Timothy
I always wanted to be able to shapeshift, so of course I was drawn to this debut fantasy about a girl who uses her shapeshifting talent to spy for the king. When the prince falls ill, Rora will do anything she can to save him, including returning to the wilderness where she gets her power. Honestly, I came for the shapeshifting, but I stayed for the story of love and friendship.
Anna
A classic of the sword-and-magic style epic fantasy, but all the books set in Tortall show girls striking back against misogyny and injustice. Alanna wants to be a warrior in a world that doesn’t let girls fight—so she and her twin brother switch places beginning a world-changing adventure.
TIMOTHY
One of the biggest hits of the last few years completely lives up to the hype. A coming-of-age story about an Afro-Latina girl learning to be her full self, not who her family and friends think she should be. The audiobook, performed by the author, is AMAZING. For fans of Drake, crushes, poetry, and Jacqueline Woodson.
Timothy
In this Breakfast Club meets murder mystery page-turner, One of Us Is Lying will keep you on your toes as you try to figure out who killed Simon. Every time you think you have it figured out something happens that will completely change your mind. I was completely enthralled in this book and found myself not being able to put it down. It's no question as to why this book is such a hit!
Jess
The beauty of a short story anthology is that it allows readers to delve into many different worlds, characters, and modes of storytelling back-to-back. This anthology is a glorious, bright celebration of sci-fi and fantasy, each story as unique and wondrous as the next!
Claire
Havenfall is a place on Earth where portals to other worlds converge. This overlap means that we the readers get the treat of encountering multiple realms--each with their own distinct world building and magic--all in one fantasy book. This fantastical setting is backed up by a well-filled cast and a plot with plenty of twists and turns.
Claire
This graphic novel delivers a Hardy Boys aesthetic (complete with sibling sleuths and a midcentury setting) with a fresh infusion of modernity, a twist of magic, and, of course, a whole lot of mystery!
Claire
Elatsoe can raise the spirits of the dead, a precarious skill passed down through her Lipan Apache family, that she has only ever used innocuously to reunite with her dog Kirby. But when her cousin is brutally murdered, Elatsoe is determined to uncover the dark forces behind his strange death and prevent his vengeful human ghost from causing chaos. Set in a spooky parallel present-day America, where faerie rings, vampires, and modern technology co-exist, Elatsoe is one of the most hauntingly original stories I’ve ever read.
Kara
Frank Li has a problem––he’s falling in love with a white girl. But he knows his first-generation Koren-American parents won’t approve. So Frank and his friend Joy devise a plan to pretend to date each other. Beyond the romance, this story explores all forms of love through the lens of race and identity in America. Yoon’s writing is sharp and Frank is a humorously nerdy narrator. This book had me laughing aloud until it moved me to tears.
Kara
Darius always feels inadequate, especially around his dad, with whom he experiences High Level Awkward Silences. Darius is a Fractional-Persian; his mother is Iranian and he calls his father an Audi-driving Teutonic Übermensch.
Darius fears he will feel even more out of place when his family visits Iran because he can’t speak Farsi, takes medication for his clinical depression, and knows more Hobbit social cues than Persian ones. But things begin to change when Darius befriends Sohrab, who makes even the longest silences comfortable. Hilarious,
heartbreaking, and honest, this book is the perfect companion for a cup of
tea.Kara
Sisterhood is alive and well in this actionpacked first installation of the feminist pirate trilogy you never knew you wanted. Caledonia Styx, the young captain of the all-female crew of the Mors Navis, must navigate the waters controlled by tyrant Aric Athair and his fleet of Bullet ships as she seeks to avenge the deaths of her family and protect her sisters of the sea. A thrilling adventure that will affirm your love for the women who surround you.
Kara