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General Recommendations

Staff reviews: Books for teens

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HCLteens_staff_reviews

Hennepin County Library

Staff-created list

Staff recommend great books.

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HCLteens_staff_reviews

Hennepin County Library

1-25 of 55 items

1-25 of 55 items

The Avant-Guards

The Avant-Guards

Volume One

by Usdin, Carly

Graphic Novel - 2019

Transfer student Charlie thought she was leaving sports behind as she enters her new arts school but the bubbly yet endearing basketball team captain Liv ...Show more Transfer student Charlie thought she was leaving sports behind as she enters her new arts school but the bubbly yet endearing basketball team captain Liv has other ideas for Charlie. A nice slow-paced comic series about sports, friendship and romance. - Antonio B., Plymouth Library Show less

Transfer student Charlie thought she was leaving sports behind as she enters her new arts school but the bubbly yet endearing basketball team captain Liv ...Show more Transfer student Charlie thought she was leaving sports behind as she enters her new arts school but the bubbly yet endearing basketball team captain Liv has other ideas for Charlie. A nice slow-paced comic series about sports, friendship and romance. - Antonio B., Plymouth Library Show less

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Squire

Squire

by Alfageeh, Sara

Graphic Novel - 2022

Aiza has long dreamt to become a famous knight of the empire but she also faces discrimination becasue of her Ornu background. When she finally enters the...Show more Aiza has long dreamt to become a famous knight of the empire but she also faces discrimination becasue of her Ornu background. When she finally enters the competitive Squire training program she finds new friends and rivals while hiding who she is. Eventually she has to ask herself what she is loyal to: the empire or her family. If someone enjoyed the Delilah Dirk series or the Vinland Saga manga then they may enjoy this wonderful graphic novel. - Antonio B., Plymouth Library Show less

Aiza has long dreamt to become a famous knight of the empire but she also faces discrimination becasue of her Ornu background. When she finally enters the...Show more Aiza has long dreamt to become a famous knight of the empire but she also faces discrimination becasue of her Ornu background. When she finally enters the competitive Squire training program she finds new friends and rivals while hiding who she is. Eventually she has to ask herself what she is loyal to: the empire or her family. If someone enjoyed the Delilah Dirk series or the Vinland Saga manga then they may enjoy this wonderful graphic novel. - Antonio B., Plymouth Library Show less

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Something Is Killing the Children

Something Is Killing the Children

Book 1

by Tynion, James, IV

Graphic Novel - 2021

Kids who have gone missing are now are turning up dead in a sleepy Wisconsin town. Enter Erica Slaughter, who knows what kind of monsters are hiding there...Show more Kids who have gone missing are now are turning up dead in a sleepy Wisconsin town. Enter Erica Slaughter, who knows what kind of monsters are hiding there but doesn't know if the town or she will survive the ordeal. An excellent graphic novel series for people who enjoy a bloody, supernatural story. If you like this, try reading Once and Future by Kieron Gillen or Revival by Tim Seeley. - Antonio B., Plymouth Library Show less

Kids who have gone missing are now are turning up dead in a sleepy Wisconsin town. Enter Erica Slaughter, who knows what kind of monsters are hiding there...Show more Kids who have gone missing are now are turning up dead in a sleepy Wisconsin town. Enter Erica Slaughter, who knows what kind of monsters are hiding there but doesn't know if the town or she will survive the ordeal. An excellent graphic novel series for people who enjoy a bloody, supernatural story. If you like this, try reading Once and Future by Kieron Gillen or Revival by Tim Seeley. - Antonio B., Plymouth Library Show less

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Specter Inspectors

Specter Inspectors

by McCurdy, Bowen

Graphic Novel - 2021

I never knew I wanted to read about a delightfully queer crew of intrepid yet unsuccessful ghost hunters who stumble into something demonically sinister b...Show more I never knew I wanted to read about a delightfully queer crew of intrepid yet unsuccessful ghost hunters who stumble into something demonically sinister but I was hooked from page one. A great pick for folks who grew up on Scooby Doo or Stranger Things. Similar titles would be Grimoire Noir, Through the Woods and Cemetery Boys. - Antonio B., Plymouth Library Show less

I never knew I wanted to read about a delightfully queer crew of intrepid yet unsuccessful ghost hunters who stumble into something demonically sinister b...Show more I never knew I wanted to read about a delightfully queer crew of intrepid yet unsuccessful ghost hunters who stumble into something demonically sinister but I was hooked from page one. A great pick for folks who grew up on Scooby Doo or Stranger Things. Similar titles would be Grimoire Noir, Through the Woods and Cemetery Boys. - Antonio B., Plymouth Library Show less

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Displacement

Displacement

by Hughes, Kiku

Graphic Novel - 2020

Kiku Hughes weaves fact and fiction together in a story of queer romance, time travel and the impact of the intergenerational harm of the 1940s Japanese-A...Show more Kiku Hughes weaves fact and fiction together in a story of queer romance, time travel and the impact of the intergenerational harm of the 1940s Japanese-American internment camps. These camps caused tremendous pain to the people it forcibly imprisoned as well as their descendants. Hughes shows how these same people were able to create loving communities with each other and resist oppression then and now. Similar graphic novels would be They Called Us Enemy by George Takei and the March series by John Lewis. - Antonio B., Plymouth Library Show less

Kiku Hughes weaves fact and fiction together in a story of queer romance, time travel and the impact of the intergenerational harm of the 1940s Japanese-A...Show more Kiku Hughes weaves fact and fiction together in a story of queer romance, time travel and the impact of the intergenerational harm of the 1940s Japanese-American internment camps. These camps caused tremendous pain to the people it forcibly imprisoned as well as their descendants. Hughes shows how these same people were able to create loving communities with each other and resist oppression then and now. Similar graphic novels would be They Called Us Enemy by George Takei and the March series by John Lewis. - Antonio B., Plymouth Library Show less

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My Hero Academia

My Hero Academia

Vol. 25, Tomura Shigaraki: Origin

by Horikoshi, Kōhei, 1986-

Graphic Novel - 2020

From the first sentence of Vol. 1 of My Hero Academia (Boko No Hero Academa, for the weebs!) "All Men Are Not Created Equal" we have learned how...Show more From the first sentence of Vol. 1 of My Hero Academia (Boko No Hero Academa, for the weebs!) "All Men Are Not Created Equal" we have learned how hero society functions from the viewpoint of the heroes, through Midoriya's fan boy perspective. In this second volume of the "Villain's Arc" we begin to focus on Shigaraki Tomura and how he became the man he is, the future symbol of fear. We learn he used to be known as Shimura Tenko, about his family life and how we was the "scapegoat" of the family, how no one was brave enough to step forward against the abuse he suffered from his father. Then after a build of neglect and abuse pushed the young boy to awaken his quirk leading to devastating results. For me this story arc represented how things are not quite as black and white as the heroes lead us to believe but society is actually gray. Villains are not born but made (sometimes it isn't even their choice) often as a result of tragedy, circumstances, or prejudice, similar to what we saw earlier with Shinso Hitoshi during the tournament arc ("sounds like a villain's quirk to me"). Chapter 24 and 25 is where we really start to see the underside of life in a superhero society and helps the plot move along very well. You learn to empathize with the villains and question the heroes motives. - Erin S., Brooklyn Park Show less

From the first sentence of Vol. 1 of My Hero Academia (Boko No Hero Academa, for the weebs!) "All Men Are Not Created Equal" we have learned how...Show more From the first sentence of Vol. 1 of My Hero Academia (Boko No Hero Academa, for the weebs!) "All Men Are Not Created Equal" we have learned how hero society functions from the viewpoint of the heroes, through Midoriya's fan boy perspective. In this second volume of the "Villain's Arc" we begin to focus on Shigaraki Tomura and how he became the man he is, the future symbol of fear. We learn he used to be known as Shimura Tenko, about his family life and how we was the "scapegoat" of the family, how no one was brave enough to step forward against the abuse he suffered from his father. Then after a build of neglect and abuse pushed the young boy to awaken his quirk leading to devastating results. For me this story arc represented how things are not quite as black and white as the heroes lead us to believe but society is actually gray. Villains are not born but made (sometimes it isn't even their choice) often as a result of tragedy, circumstances, or prejudice, similar to what we saw earlier with Shinso Hitoshi during the tournament arc ("sounds like a villain's quirk to me"). Chapter 24 and 25 is where we really start to see the underside of life in a superhero society and helps the plot move along very well. You learn to empathize with the villains and question the heroes motives. - Erin S., Brooklyn Park Show less

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The Magic Fish

The Magic Fish

by Nguyen, Trung Le

Graphic Novel - 2020

For lovers of fairy tales. The Magic Fish delicately overlays fantasy, reality, pain, kindness, and wonder. It's beautiful. (Check out the notes and bonus...Show more For lovers of fairy tales. The Magic Fish delicately overlays fantasy, reality, pain, kindness, and wonder. It's beautiful. (Check out the notes and bonus illustrations at the end too.) Looking forward to reading more by this local MN author after his impressive debut. - Sarah Jane A., St. Louis Park Library Show less

For lovers of fairy tales. The Magic Fish delicately overlays fantasy, reality, pain, kindness, and wonder. It's beautiful. (Check out the notes and bonus...Show more For lovers of fairy tales. The Magic Fish delicately overlays fantasy, reality, pain, kindness, and wonder. It's beautiful. (Check out the notes and bonus illustrations at the end too.) Looking forward to reading more by this local MN author after his impressive debut. - Sarah Jane A., St. Louis Park Library Show less

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Anna K

Anna K

A Love Story

by Lee, Jenny, 1971-

Book - 2020

This is one of the most carefully and thoughtfully written stories I have read in a long time. Anna K is (as you may have guessed) a retelling of Anna Kar...Show more This is one of the most carefully and thoughtfully written stories I have read in a long time. Anna K is (as you may have guessed) a retelling of Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, but it cleverly weaves in elements of Crazy Rich Asians and Gossip Girl to take the classic to modern day Manhattan society. What I found so intriguing about this story is that the author still gave it the feel of a dense Russian classic work (she fits a lot of words on each page), but it never feels dull or slow. Quite the opposite, in fact. Instead, I would say that this book is an immersive experience. You start reading, and the drama, the romance, the fun pop culture references, and the smart writing just draw you in so that the hours go by without notice. Heads up: There is a fair amount of mature content in this story, with fairly steady drug use and abuse and sex scenes that would be right at home in adult romance novels, so I would recommend this title for older teens and adults. There is a sequel expected in 2021 called Anna K Away, and I truly hope the series maintains its strengths as it ventures away from the classic plot. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

This is one of the most carefully and thoughtfully written stories I have read in a long time. Anna K is (as you may have guessed) a retelling of Anna Kar...Show more This is one of the most carefully and thoughtfully written stories I have read in a long time. Anna K is (as you may have guessed) a retelling of Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy, but it cleverly weaves in elements of Crazy Rich Asians and Gossip Girl to take the classic to modern day Manhattan society. What I found so intriguing about this story is that the author still gave it the feel of a dense Russian classic work (she fits a lot of words on each page), but it never feels dull or slow. Quite the opposite, in fact. Instead, I would say that this book is an immersive experience. You start reading, and the drama, the romance, the fun pop culture references, and the smart writing just draw you in so that the hours go by without notice. Heads up: There is a fair amount of mature content in this story, with fairly steady drug use and abuse and sex scenes that would be right at home in adult romance novels, so I would recommend this title for older teens and adults. There is a sequel expected in 2021 called Anna K Away, and I truly hope the series maintains its strengths as it ventures away from the classic plot. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

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Truly Madly Royally

Truly Madly Royally

by Rigaud, Debbie

Book - 2019

If only there were more Zora Emersons in the world! Powered by her own steam, she has found ways to bring her community of Appleton, NJ together to suppor...Show more If only there were more Zora Emersons in the world! Powered by her own steam, she has found ways to bring her community of Appleton, NJ together to support one another and show their value. Her biggest project provides afterschool care and chaperoned walks home for children who live too close for the bus, but too far to safely walk on their own. She not only oversees the daily operations, but works on securing grant funding to keep it going. It only stands to reason that she uses her walks around campus (oh, yeah, she's also taking a community organizing course at a nearby university) to zone out and listen to her audiobook. There are some amazing audiobooks out there, so it makes perfect sense to me that she would not notice the handsome Prince Owen of Landerel who takes the same route. But after a smartphone mix-up at the library, Zora finds herself thrown into the strange world of royalty, body guards, paparazzi and all. What I really appreciated about this book is how both Zora and Owen remain true to who they are throughout the story despite the press, slightly intimidating family introductions, and their class and racial differences. Romance stories like this can very easily have accomplished women simply swooning and falling into step with their wealthy partner, but Zora makes sure that she is seen as herself and does not let anyone, royalty or not, sway her from her personal goals. She sees herself as more than just this relationship, and that is a breath of some much-needed fresh air. This was such a fun story to read, and for those looking for similar themes and tone, I would recommend Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins, To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han, and Tweet Cute by Emma Lord. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

If only there were more Zora Emersons in the world! Powered by her own steam, she has found ways to bring her community of Appleton, NJ together to suppor...Show more If only there were more Zora Emersons in the world! Powered by her own steam, she has found ways to bring her community of Appleton, NJ together to support one another and show their value. Her biggest project provides afterschool care and chaperoned walks home for children who live too close for the bus, but too far to safely walk on their own. She not only oversees the daily operations, but works on securing grant funding to keep it going. It only stands to reason that she uses her walks around campus (oh, yeah, she's also taking a community organizing course at a nearby university) to zone out and listen to her audiobook. There are some amazing audiobooks out there, so it makes perfect sense to me that she would not notice the handsome Prince Owen of Landerel who takes the same route. But after a smartphone mix-up at the library, Zora finds herself thrown into the strange world of royalty, body guards, paparazzi and all. What I really appreciated about this book is how both Zora and Owen remain true to who they are throughout the story despite the press, slightly intimidating family introductions, and their class and racial differences. Romance stories like this can very easily have accomplished women simply swooning and falling into step with their wealthy partner, but Zora makes sure that she is seen as herself and does not let anyone, royalty or not, sway her from her personal goals. She sees herself as more than just this relationship, and that is a breath of some much-needed fresh air. This was such a fun story to read, and for those looking for similar themes and tone, I would recommend Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins, To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han, and Tweet Cute by Emma Lord. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

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Grown

Grown

A Novel

by Jackson, Tiffany D.

Book - 2020

Enchanted Jones is a typical high school student. She's on the swim team and she helps her hardworking parents take care of her younger siblings. She is p...Show more Enchanted Jones is a typical high school student. She's on the swim team and she helps her hardworking parents take care of her younger siblings. She is passionate about singing and writing songs, so she takes the chance to audition for a televised singing competition. At the audition, she meets Korey Fields, an R&B superstar. She is flattered by the attention of the older man, and she is thrilled to take the opportunity to make her dreams come true in the music industry. The dream turns into a nightmare, as the story goes back and forth through time from Enchanted and Korey meeting to Enchanted accused of murdering Korey. The book touches on some very difficult topics, from abuse, assault and rape, while exploring rape culture that excuses the abusive behavior of powerful men and the denial of Black girls' voices and their stories. - Mia H., Hopkins Library Show less

Enchanted Jones is a typical high school student. She's on the swim team and she helps her hardworking parents take care of her younger siblings. She is p...Show more Enchanted Jones is a typical high school student. She's on the swim team and she helps her hardworking parents take care of her younger siblings. She is passionate about singing and writing songs, so she takes the chance to audition for a televised singing competition. At the audition, she meets Korey Fields, an R&B superstar. She is flattered by the attention of the older man, and she is thrilled to take the opportunity to make her dreams come true in the music industry. The dream turns into a nightmare, as the story goes back and forth through time from Enchanted and Korey meeting to Enchanted accused of murdering Korey. The book touches on some very difficult topics, from abuse, assault and rape, while exploring rape culture that excuses the abusive behavior of powerful men and the denial of Black girls' voices and their stories. - Mia H., Hopkins Library Show less

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The Boy in the Red Dress

The Boy in the Red Dress

by Lambert, Kristin

Book - 2020

1920’s New Orleans setting? Teen detective trying to clear her best friend’s name? Yes, please! I loved The Boy in the Red Dress from the very first page ...Show more 1920’s New Orleans setting? Teen detective trying to clear her best friend’s name? Yes, please! I loved The Boy in the Red Dress from the very first page where we watch as Millie is left in charge of the Cloak and Dagger club for the night—a night that ends in murder. Millie doesn’t know who did it, but she is certain that her best friend Marion (a drag performer at the club) could not have done it. And she sets out to prove it. The mostly queer cast of characters, including a bisexual main character, are lovable misfits who have created a family for themselves and a queer friendly safe space at the Cloak and Dagger. It may be a murder mystery, but it’s a sweet and fun read for historical mystery fans. - Mindy R., Edina Library Show less

1920’s New Orleans setting? Teen detective trying to clear her best friend’s name? Yes, please! I loved The Boy in the Red Dress from the very first page ...Show more 1920’s New Orleans setting? Teen detective trying to clear her best friend’s name? Yes, please! I loved The Boy in the Red Dress from the very first page where we watch as Millie is left in charge of the Cloak and Dagger club for the night—a night that ends in murder. Millie doesn’t know who did it, but she is certain that her best friend Marion (a drag performer at the club) could not have done it. And she sets out to prove it. The mostly queer cast of characters, including a bisexual main character, are lovable misfits who have created a family for themselves and a queer friendly safe space at the Cloak and Dagger. It may be a murder mystery, but it’s a sweet and fun read for historical mystery fans. - Mindy R., Edina Library Show less

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Dig

Dig

by King, A. S. 1970-

Book - 2019

It took a lot of effort to bring myself to open this book. Because, despite all of the "Don't judge a book by its cover" hoopla (which is typica...Show more It took a lot of effort to bring myself to open this book. Because, despite all of the "Don't judge a book by its cover" hoopla (which is typically good advice talking about many subjects), this book has potatoes on the cover. POTATOES. Even if I thought the book had merit after reading it, how would I begin to convince other potential readers to look past the cover? Going in, I knew the book should have some strengths. It did receive the Michael J. Printz Award. But still. Potatoes. So, I'm going to let you know what I got out of it, because in this book, I don't think the important part is the plot, but what it makes you think about and feel- especially in the second half. This book is about white fragility and supremacy. It isn't obvious in the first part of the book, I think, because the majority (if not all) of the white characters do not see or acknowledge it. Our teenage main characters who narrate the story are trying, but their whiteness still creates a barrier to true understanding. You see this especially in the character originally named CanIHelpYou? and her relationship with her black best friend, Ian. How CanIHelpYou can't invite Ian to her house because of her mom's racism and what that does to the friendship. And this is where the potatoes come in. Because, in digging to the roots, you see how the characters are interconnected and how generational racism can express itself. And when A.S. King writes about this, she does it with different characters narrating, so we the reader really get to see this connection in a really interesting way. So, this book has a lot to think about. I think it would make for a great and lengthy discussion, especially among readers of different generations. Just dig past the potatoes. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

It took a lot of effort to bring myself to open this book. Because, despite all of the "Don't judge a book by its cover" hoopla (which is typica...Show more It took a lot of effort to bring myself to open this book. Because, despite all of the "Don't judge a book by its cover" hoopla (which is typically good advice talking about many subjects), this book has potatoes on the cover. POTATOES. Even if I thought the book had merit after reading it, how would I begin to convince other potential readers to look past the cover? Going in, I knew the book should have some strengths. It did receive the Michael J. Printz Award. But still. Potatoes. So, I'm going to let you know what I got out of it, because in this book, I don't think the important part is the plot, but what it makes you think about and feel- especially in the second half. This book is about white fragility and supremacy. It isn't obvious in the first part of the book, I think, because the majority (if not all) of the white characters do not see or acknowledge it. Our teenage main characters who narrate the story are trying, but their whiteness still creates a barrier to true understanding. You see this especially in the character originally named CanIHelpYou? and her relationship with her black best friend, Ian. How CanIHelpYou can't invite Ian to her house because of her mom's racism and what that does to the friendship. And this is where the potatoes come in. Because, in digging to the roots, you see how the characters are interconnected and how generational racism can express itself. And when A.S. King writes about this, she does it with different characters narrating, so we the reader really get to see this connection in a really interesting way. So, this book has a lot to think about. I think it would make for a great and lengthy discussion, especially among readers of different generations. Just dig past the potatoes. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

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Monthly Girls' Nozaki-kun

Monthly Girls' Nozaki-kun

1

by Tsubaki, Izumi

Graphic Novel - 2015

Nozaki-kun is an amazing mangaka, but he lacks any sense of romance (or any sense whatsoever) in real life! This manga is full of so-stupid-it's-funny sit...Show more Nozaki-kun is an amazing mangaka, but he lacks any sense of romance (or any sense whatsoever) in real life! This manga is full of so-stupid-it's-funny situational humor, the carroting hint of a possible romance between Chiyo and Nozaki, and appropriately beautiful art for a story about a shoujo manga artist. Recommended for fans of 4-panel gag series and shoujo manga. - Sarah Jane A., St. Louis Park Library Show less

Nozaki-kun is an amazing mangaka, but he lacks any sense of romance (or any sense whatsoever) in real life! This manga is full of so-stupid-it's-funny sit...Show more Nozaki-kun is an amazing mangaka, but he lacks any sense of romance (or any sense whatsoever) in real life! This manga is full of so-stupid-it's-funny situational humor, the carroting hint of a possible romance between Chiyo and Nozaki, and appropriately beautiful art for a story about a shoujo manga artist. Recommended for fans of 4-panel gag series and shoujo manga. - Sarah Jane A., St. Louis Park Library Show less

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Goldie Vance

Goldie Vance

Volume One

by Larson, Hope

Graphic Novel - 2016

For anyone looking for readalikes to Nancy Drew or Lumberjanes, this graphic novel series should be first on your list. Goldie Vance is a spunky, adventur...Show more For anyone looking for readalikes to Nancy Drew or Lumberjanes, this graphic novel series should be first on your list. Goldie Vance is a spunky, adventurous protagonist with boundless curiosity. Though she works as a valet at her father's hotel, she aspires to be a detective, and she assists the hotel investigator with his cases (whether or not he asks for the help). While she sometimes gets in over her head, her supportive friends and family are there to help her out, and the cases resolve neatly at the end of each installment. The diversity of the cast is notable; Goldie herself is biracial and romantically interested in a young woman who works at a nearby record store. The art and writing are well-suited for each other: the visual style is bright and expressive while the writing is clever, humorous, and as full of energy as the lead character. This series is perfect for middle-grade readers, but teens and adults might also appreciate its charm. - Libby W., Linden Hills Library Show less

For anyone looking for readalikes to Nancy Drew or Lumberjanes, this graphic novel series should be first on your list. Goldie Vance is a spunky, adventur...Show more For anyone looking for readalikes to Nancy Drew or Lumberjanes, this graphic novel series should be first on your list. Goldie Vance is a spunky, adventurous protagonist with boundless curiosity. Though she works as a valet at her father's hotel, she aspires to be a detective, and she assists the hotel investigator with his cases (whether or not he asks for the help). While she sometimes gets in over her head, her supportive friends and family are there to help her out, and the cases resolve neatly at the end of each installment. The diversity of the cast is notable; Goldie herself is biracial and romantically interested in a young woman who works at a nearby record store. The art and writing are well-suited for each other: the visual style is bright and expressive while the writing is clever, humorous, and as full of energy as the lead character. This series is perfect for middle-grade readers, but teens and adults might also appreciate its charm. - Libby W., Linden Hills Library Show less

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Of Curses and Kisses

Of Curses and Kisses

by Menon, Sandhya

Book - 2020

In this modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast we are transported to a majestic boarding school near Aspen where Princess Jaya Rao will exact her reveng...Show more In this modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast we are transported to a majestic boarding school near Aspen where Princess Jaya Rao will exact her revenge on Grey Emerson by breaking his heart. The Rao and Emerson families have been feuding for many years after the Emersons refused to return Indian jewels that were taken during Britain's colonial rule. Jaya is now going after Grey because she believes he leaked a story about her sister to the press that will really hurt her family's standing. This new premise that Menon has created has a lot of promise: a beautiful setting, an interesting cultural and historic setup for the animosity between the two main characters, and some really elegant events at which a number of plot points unfold. I think Menon did a solid job of building the character of Jaya, but unfortunately, she makes Grey a bit too stoic and removed for the first half of the book for the enemies-to-lovers story to really work. It looks like this might be the first in a series, so while I feel like this didn't quite live up to its promise, it was an enjoyable story, and I'll be on the lookout for the next. In the meantime, I'd recommend checking out Beauty by Robin McKinley for a bit more emotional suspense. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

In this modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast we are transported to a majestic boarding school near Aspen where Princess Jaya Rao will exact her reveng...Show more In this modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast we are transported to a majestic boarding school near Aspen where Princess Jaya Rao will exact her revenge on Grey Emerson by breaking his heart. The Rao and Emerson families have been feuding for many years after the Emersons refused to return Indian jewels that were taken during Britain's colonial rule. Jaya is now going after Grey because she believes he leaked a story about her sister to the press that will really hurt her family's standing. This new premise that Menon has created has a lot of promise: a beautiful setting, an interesting cultural and historic setup for the animosity between the two main characters, and some really elegant events at which a number of plot points unfold. I think Menon did a solid job of building the character of Jaya, but unfortunately, she makes Grey a bit too stoic and removed for the first half of the book for the enemies-to-lovers story to really work. It looks like this might be the first in a series, so while I feel like this didn't quite live up to its promise, it was an enjoyable story, and I'll be on the lookout for the next. In the meantime, I'd recommend checking out Beauty by Robin McKinley for a bit more emotional suspense. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

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With A Star in My Hand

With A Star in My Hand

Rubén Darío, Poetry Hero

by Engle, Margarita

Book - 2020

Margarita Engle is so good at bringing us stories that we haven't heard before but should definitely know. And typically, her novels in verse are a great ...Show more Margarita Engle is so good at bringing us stories that we haven't heard before but should definitely know. And typically, her novels in verse are a great way to escape into these worlds, but for me, With a Star in My Hand, just didn't go as far as it should have. It is the biography of the Nicaraguan poet, whose early life was filled with abandonment and uncertainty, but later received the acclaim as a hero of a nation. The story of this poet seems so interesting, but the execution of it is too swift and sparse, and I found it difficult to follow. I wanted to be able to really dive into this story, but it just jumped too quickly in time and place to keep track of what was going on with him. Also, the voice never changed from when he is twelve to when he is nineteen, and the twelve-year-old comes off as way too adult in the expression. Now, I'm still interested in the story of Darío, but I'd recommend checking out a biography or some of his poetic works instead of this one to start. Or, for a similar, but better executed novel-in-verse about a poet, check out The Dreamer, by Pam Muñoz Ryan, which tells of the early years of Pablo Neruda. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

Margarita Engle is so good at bringing us stories that we haven't heard before but should definitely know. And typically, her novels in verse are a great ...Show more Margarita Engle is so good at bringing us stories that we haven't heard before but should definitely know. And typically, her novels in verse are a great way to escape into these worlds, but for me, With a Star in My Hand, just didn't go as far as it should have. It is the biography of the Nicaraguan poet, whose early life was filled with abandonment and uncertainty, but later received the acclaim as a hero of a nation. The story of this poet seems so interesting, but the execution of it is too swift and sparse, and I found it difficult to follow. I wanted to be able to really dive into this story, but it just jumped too quickly in time and place to keep track of what was going on with him. Also, the voice never changed from when he is twelve to when he is nineteen, and the twelve-year-old comes off as way too adult in the expression. Now, I'm still interested in the story of Darío, but I'd recommend checking out a biography or some of his poetic works instead of this one to start. Or, for a similar, but better executed novel-in-verse about a poet, check out The Dreamer, by Pam Muñoz Ryan, which tells of the early years of Pablo Neruda. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

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The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl

The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl

[1], Squirrel Power

by North, Ryan, 1980-

Graphic Novel - 2015

Need a comfort read? Squirrel Girl will make you laugh, cheer, and look at squirrels in a whole new way. Yes, the idea of a superhero with the strength of...Show more Need a comfort read? Squirrel Girl will make you laugh, cheer, and look at squirrels in a whole new way. Yes, the idea of a superhero with the strength of a squirrel sounds a bit silly, but just go with it, and you will rewarded with a heroine for the ages! Doreen Green has just started college, majoring in computer science. These skills will come in handy as she beats up muggers, faces down the worst villains in the universe, and keeps her identity secret from her friends. You don't need to know anything about the Marvel Universe to love this series. Come for the hilarious adventures, and stay for a grounded, appealing heroine whose matter-of-fact belief in her own strength just makes the reader glow! Don't miss the footnotes at the bottom of the pages, and the characters' social media chats between the chapters! They add a whole new layer of fun. - Lynn T., East Lake Library Show less

Need a comfort read? Squirrel Girl will make you laugh, cheer, and look at squirrels in a whole new way. Yes, the idea of a superhero with the strength of...Show more Need a comfort read? Squirrel Girl will make you laugh, cheer, and look at squirrels in a whole new way. Yes, the idea of a superhero with the strength of a squirrel sounds a bit silly, but just go with it, and you will rewarded with a heroine for the ages! Doreen Green has just started college, majoring in computer science. These skills will come in handy as she beats up muggers, faces down the worst villains in the universe, and keeps her identity secret from her friends. You don't need to know anything about the Marvel Universe to love this series. Come for the hilarious adventures, and stay for a grounded, appealing heroine whose matter-of-fact belief in her own strength just makes the reader glow! Don't miss the footnotes at the bottom of the pages, and the characters' social media chats between the chapters! They add a whole new layer of fun. - Lynn T., East Lake Library Show less

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The Fountains of Silence

The Fountains of Silence

A Novel

by Sepetys, Ruta

Book - 2019

What a beautiful book. In The Fountains of Silence, Sepetys shows us once again how she is the master of suspenseful historical fiction. This time, we are...Show more What a beautiful book. In The Fountains of Silence, Sepetys shows us once again how she is the master of suspenseful historical fiction. This time, we are brought to Franco's Spain in the late 1950s. Daniel is an aspiring photojournalist on a visit to Madrid with parents. His dad is looking to strike an oil deal, and his Spanish mother is using the chance to visit her home country. Daniel quickly becomes enamored with Ana, who works at the hotel and has been assigned to care for his family's rooms. But this is no simple tale of a boy trying to date a girl from the wrong side of the tracks. Daniel soon discovers that there are some terrible secrets involving the country's orphanages, and he may be the only one with the power to say anything. Based on actual history, this is a heart-wrenching story, but Sepetys keeps the pages turning with just the right balance of suspense and romance. Young adults are the main characters, but I think this story would work for many adult readers, and in particular, fans of Anthony Doerr's All the Light We Cannot See. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

What a beautiful book. In The Fountains of Silence, Sepetys shows us once again how she is the master of suspenseful historical fiction. This time, we are...Show more What a beautiful book. In The Fountains of Silence, Sepetys shows us once again how she is the master of suspenseful historical fiction. This time, we are brought to Franco's Spain in the late 1950s. Daniel is an aspiring photojournalist on a visit to Madrid with parents. His dad is looking to strike an oil deal, and his Spanish mother is using the chance to visit her home country. Daniel quickly becomes enamored with Ana, who works at the hotel and has been assigned to care for his family's rooms. But this is no simple tale of a boy trying to date a girl from the wrong side of the tracks. Daniel soon discovers that there are some terrible secrets involving the country's orphanages, and he may be the only one with the power to say anything. Based on actual history, this is a heart-wrenching story, but Sepetys keeps the pages turning with just the right balance of suspense and romance. Young adults are the main characters, but I think this story would work for many adult readers, and in particular, fans of Anthony Doerr's All the Light We Cannot See. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

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The Field Guide to the North American Teenager

The Field Guide to the North American Teenager

by Philippe, Ben

Book - 2018

When high school student Norris Kaplan and his mom move to Texas midway through the school year, he figures there will be challenges. A Black French Cana...Show more When high school student Norris Kaplan and his mom move to Texas midway through the school year, he figures there will be challenges. A Black French Canadian, Norris expects to be out of place at an American school and his experiences confirm that assumption. Snarky and homesick, he nevertheless slowly starts to make friends. Norris blunders through relationships and often says the wrong thing, but he's also funny and sensitive. I enjoyed this entertaining and believable story of a teen finding his way. - Kathryn Z., Brooklyn Park Library Show less

When high school student Norris Kaplan and his mom move to Texas midway through the school year, he figures there will be challenges. A Black French Cana...Show more When high school student Norris Kaplan and his mom move to Texas midway through the school year, he figures there will be challenges. A Black French Canadian, Norris expects to be out of place at an American school and his experiences confirm that assumption. Snarky and homesick, he nevertheless slowly starts to make friends. Norris blunders through relationships and often says the wrong thing, but he's also funny and sensitive. I enjoyed this entertaining and believable story of a teen finding his way. - Kathryn Z., Brooklyn Park Library Show less

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Laura Dean Keeps Breaking up With Me

Laura Dean Keeps Breaking up With Me

by Tamaki, Mariko

Graphic Novel - 2019

Laura Dean just has that thing, you know. That charisma, that charm, that gravitational pull that makes you feel like the luckiest person in the world whe...Show more Laura Dean just has that thing, you know. That charisma, that charm, that gravitational pull that makes you feel like the luckiest person in the world when it is focused on you. Unfortunately for Freddy, Laura Dean's girlfriend, this only happens in small bursts. One minute Laura Dean is there and the sun is shining, and the next she is gone, and Freddy is wondering how this thunderstorm snuck up on her. Freddy has such a solid group of friends to support her that she just can't get a handle on how she can be so attracted to someone who is so unreliable. There is so much in this story that I think Tamaki just nails perfectly. The relationships are spot-on, but there is also just a terrific amount of humor in here that you don't want to miss. I especially love the back-and-forth betweeen Freddy and her new friend Vi and how they turn the night they met from a really unfortunate incident into a recurring inside joke. This is a fast, absorbing read that really captures those older teen/ early twenties years well and would be a solid choice for readers of Maggie Thrash or graduates of Raina Telgemeier's works. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

Laura Dean just has that thing, you know. That charisma, that charm, that gravitational pull that makes you feel like the luckiest person in the world whe...Show more Laura Dean just has that thing, you know. That charisma, that charm, that gravitational pull that makes you feel like the luckiest person in the world when it is focused on you. Unfortunately for Freddy, Laura Dean's girlfriend, this only happens in small bursts. One minute Laura Dean is there and the sun is shining, and the next she is gone, and Freddy is wondering how this thunderstorm snuck up on her. Freddy has such a solid group of friends to support her that she just can't get a handle on how she can be so attracted to someone who is so unreliable. There is so much in this story that I think Tamaki just nails perfectly. The relationships are spot-on, but there is also just a terrific amount of humor in here that you don't want to miss. I especially love the back-and-forth betweeen Freddy and her new friend Vi and how they turn the night they met from a really unfortunate incident into a recurring inside joke. This is a fast, absorbing read that really captures those older teen/ early twenties years well and would be a solid choice for readers of Maggie Thrash or graduates of Raina Telgemeier's works. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

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Monday's Not Coming

Monday's Not Coming

by Jackson, Tiffany D.

Book - 2018

Word of advice: Watch out for Tiffany D. Jackson. She is an author that has this writing thing down. With Monday's Not Coming, not only did she get me to ...Show more Word of advice: Watch out for Tiffany D. Jackson. She is an author that has this writing thing down. With Monday's Not Coming, not only did she get me to read about the one topic I usually refuse to read, but she nailed it so well I could not put it down. You know right off the bat that something terrible has happened, and that Claudia's best friend Monday went missing, so you are prepared for a suspenseful ride. What I didn't know, though, is that Tiffany Jackson would also write such a good best friend story within this mystery. As you read about Claudia and Monday's friendship in "The Before", you get to see two young girls come together like family, helping each other with dance moves and homework, standing up for each other at school, sharing clothes. So what in the world happened, then? How can Monday just disappear for month after month without the whole community demanding answers? Why is Claudia the only one looking? In the Acknowledgements, Jackson writes, "Lastly, to missing children of color, we have not forgotten about you. We will continue to fight and give you a voice. You matter." And what a voice she gave. This book is going to be humming in my head for a long time. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

Word of advice: Watch out for Tiffany D. Jackson. She is an author that has this writing thing down. With Monday's Not Coming, not only did she get me to ...Show more Word of advice: Watch out for Tiffany D. Jackson. She is an author that has this writing thing down. With Monday's Not Coming, not only did she get me to read about the one topic I usually refuse to read, but she nailed it so well I could not put it down. You know right off the bat that something terrible has happened, and that Claudia's best friend Monday went missing, so you are prepared for a suspenseful ride. What I didn't know, though, is that Tiffany Jackson would also write such a good best friend story within this mystery. As you read about Claudia and Monday's friendship in "The Before", you get to see two young girls come together like family, helping each other with dance moves and homework, standing up for each other at school, sharing clothes. So what in the world happened, then? How can Monday just disappear for month after month without the whole community demanding answers? Why is Claudia the only one looking? In the Acknowledgements, Jackson writes, "Lastly, to missing children of color, we have not forgotten about you. We will continue to fight and give you a voice. You matter." And what a voice she gave. This book is going to be humming in my head for a long time. - Nina S., Maple Grove Library Show less

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The Kiss of Deception

The Kiss of Deception

by Pearson, Mary

Book - 2014

Princess Arabella has never been the sort of person who does what she's told. So when her parents arrange for her marriage to a prince from a neighboring ...Show more Princess Arabella has never been the sort of person who does what she's told. So when her parents arrange for her marriage to a prince from a neighboring country, she runs away rather than marry some prince she's never met. She takes a job serving in a tavern and starts going by one of her middle names: Lia. But the princess can't hide forever--not when the jilted prince and an assassin from a rival country are both tracking her. In the end, Lia's destiny is far different than she ever imagined. This rich, complex speculative story had me glued to the pages from beginning to end. If you are like me, you will want to get books two and three very quickly! - Mindy R., Edina Library Show less

Princess Arabella has never been the sort of person who does what she's told. So when her parents arrange for her marriage to a prince from a neighboring ...Show more Princess Arabella has never been the sort of person who does what she's told. So when her parents arrange for her marriage to a prince from a neighboring country, she runs away rather than marry some prince she's never met. She takes a job serving in a tavern and starts going by one of her middle names: Lia. But the princess can't hide forever--not when the jilted prince and an assassin from a rival country are both tracking her. In the end, Lia's destiny is far different than she ever imagined. This rich, complex speculative story had me glued to the pages from beginning to end. If you are like me, you will want to get books two and three very quickly! - Mindy R., Edina Library Show less

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The Distance Between Us

The Distance Between Us

by Grande, Reyna

Book - 2016

In the start of this autobiography, young Reyna Grande is growing up in Mexico, separated from her parents who have moved to the United States looking for...Show more In the start of this autobiography, young Reyna Grande is growing up in Mexico, separated from her parents who have moved to the United States looking for work. In the second part, we learn about Reyna's life after she comes to live with her dad, who is an undocumented immigrant in the United States. This is a great story about growing up in hard circumstances, being separated from one's family, and being an immigrant in this country. The author's great writing makes you feel like you're right there with her, which in many ways can be much more interesting and helpful than just hearing about DREAMers and other immigrants on the news. - Vadim R., Minneapolis Central Library Show less

In the start of this autobiography, young Reyna Grande is growing up in Mexico, separated from her parents who have moved to the United States looking for...Show more In the start of this autobiography, young Reyna Grande is growing up in Mexico, separated from her parents who have moved to the United States looking for work. In the second part, we learn about Reyna's life after she comes to live with her dad, who is an undocumented immigrant in the United States. This is a great story about growing up in hard circumstances, being separated from one's family, and being an immigrant in this country. The author's great writing makes you feel like you're right there with her, which in many ways can be much more interesting and helpful than just hearing about DREAMers and other immigrants on the news. - Vadim R., Minneapolis Central Library Show less

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Girls of Paper and Fire

Girls of Paper and Fire

by Ngan, Natasha

Book - 2018

This exciting, fast-paced novel will grip you from beginning to end and leave you waiting on the edge of your seat for a sequel. The story takes place in ...Show more This exciting, fast-paced novel will grip you from beginning to end and leave you waiting on the edge of your seat for a sequel. The story takes place in a unique fantasy world with Southeast Asian cultural influences that is ruled by a strict caste system based on how much demon blood runs in a person's veins. After catching the attention of a demon soldier seeking his king's favor, Lei, a young human woman of the lowest caste, is forcibly taken from her family to become a paper girl, a concubine to the fearsome demon king. As Lei struggles to accept the often heartless world she now finds herself expected to navigate, hope and love comes from an unexpected quarter: Wren, a fellow paper girl. Their romance is sweet and gentle, presenting a stark contrast to life as a concubine. The end of the book moves quickly and will leave you aching to know what happens next. Note that this book contains descriptions of violence and sexual assault that may be upsetting to some readers. — Katie P., Ridgedale Library Show less

This exciting, fast-paced novel will grip you from beginning to end and leave you waiting on the edge of your seat for a sequel. The story takes place in ...Show more This exciting, fast-paced novel will grip you from beginning to end and leave you waiting on the edge of your seat for a sequel. The story takes place in a unique fantasy world with Southeast Asian cultural influences that is ruled by a strict caste system based on how much demon blood runs in a person's veins. After catching the attention of a demon soldier seeking his king's favor, Lei, a young human woman of the lowest caste, is forcibly taken from her family to become a paper girl, a concubine to the fearsome demon king. As Lei struggles to accept the often heartless world she now finds herself expected to navigate, hope and love comes from an unexpected quarter: Wren, a fellow paper girl. Their romance is sweet and gentle, presenting a stark contrast to life as a concubine. The end of the book moves quickly and will leave you aching to know what happens next. Note that this book contains descriptions of violence and sexual assault that may be upsetting to some readers. — Katie P., Ridgedale Library Show less

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The Last Dragonslayer

The Last Dragonslayer

by Fforde, Jasper

Book - 2012

Fifteen year old Jennifer Strange has her work cut out for her as the de facto manager of Kazam Mystical Arts Management since her boss, The Great Zambini...Show more Fifteen year old Jennifer Strange has her work cut out for her as the de facto manager of Kazam Mystical Arts Management since her boss, The Great Zambini, disappeared six months ago. In an age where magic is losing its power and prestige Jennifer is trying to keep the bills paid, get the paperwork done and manage all of the temperamental and formally great magicians who are not happy being reduced to pizza delivery and plumbing jobs. When predictions are made that the last dragon in the UnUnited Kingdoms is about to be slain and the ensuing chaos could lead to war — and perhaps the loss of all magic — Jennifer is thrown into the middle of the action in a starring role she isn't too sure she wants. Author Jasper Fforde creates a whimsical, fast paced and uproariously funny adventure for Jennifer and her friends. Suitable for middle school and up. The audio version would be a great road trip listen for the whole family. — Beth B., Southeast Library Show less

Fifteen year old Jennifer Strange has her work cut out for her as the de facto manager of Kazam Mystical Arts Management since her boss, The Great Zambini...Show more Fifteen year old Jennifer Strange has her work cut out for her as the de facto manager of Kazam Mystical Arts Management since her boss, The Great Zambini, disappeared six months ago. In an age where magic is losing its power and prestige Jennifer is trying to keep the bills paid, get the paperwork done and manage all of the temperamental and formally great magicians who are not happy being reduced to pizza delivery and plumbing jobs. When predictions are made that the last dragon in the UnUnited Kingdoms is about to be slain and the ensuing chaos could lead to war — and perhaps the loss of all magic — Jennifer is thrown into the middle of the action in a starring role she isn't too sure she wants. Author Jasper Fforde creates a whimsical, fast paced and uproariously funny adventure for Jennifer and her friends. Suitable for middle school and up. The audio version would be a great road trip listen for the whole family. — Beth B., Southeast Library Show less

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