When I tell other educators that I use Super Smash Bros. as a tool in my work with teenagers, I usually get one of two reactions: a knowing smile, or a raised eyebrow that says aren’t you supposed to be teaching them something? Fair question. Here’s my answer: I am. For anyone who hasn’t picked…
Category: Young Adult Books
Finding Your Voice: The Story of My Anger by Jasminne Mendez
“A compelling drama with a firecracker protagonist that stuns with its strikingly beautiful writing.” — Kirkus, starred review If you’re looking for a book that meets students exactly where they are — navigating identity, injustice, and the pressure to stay quiet — Jasminne Mendez’s YA debut The Story of My Anger deserves a place on…
Touching sibling dynamics add warmth to this keenly plotted nail-biter
The well-constructed plot leaves just enough unanswered questions to make readers hope for a sequel. Simply a great read.” -Kirkus Reviews Kate Alice Marshall takes readers on a thrilling journey filled with mystery, adventure, and supernatural abilities in Extra Normal. Renowned for her ability to craft intricate and gripping narratives, Kate delivers a captivating novel…
A sparkling, stirring ode to love, art, and unexpected human connection
“An exquisitely told story of grief, growing up, and the glorious complexities of love and life.” – Kathleen Glasgow, New York Times bestselling author of Girl in Pieces and You’d Be Home Now From the author of Accidental comes a gripping story about a teen grieving her father’s sudden death–and grappling with the shocking secrets…
Two strangers—each with their own complicated relationship to Death-Cast—help each other learn to live
‘An unforgettable narrative that is as beautiful as it is audacious. A remarkable achievement that begs to be embraced and savored.” — Booklist In this third book of the USA Today and #1 New York Times mega-bestselling They Both Die at the End series, two strangers—each with their own complicated relationship to Death-Cast—help each other…
Great fit for middle grade readers who want a light, entertaining, yet highly engaging read.
As she (Julie) learns how to be a good friend, she also learns how to be her genuine self and accepts that fulfilling relationships come in all forms, romantic, familial, and platonic. Hand this book to a reader who might be a little too focused on their budding love life or who might need a…
An account of the reality women faced before abortion was made legal
“With gut-wrenching, realistic scenes that illustrate their youth and innocence to scenes that show their forced growth into motherhood, readers’ hearts will break for these teens who don’t know what to expect when their life throws them the unexpected. An excellent fictionalized look at the reality of teen pregnancy with a historical lens. A must for…
A warm play on the theme of inclusivity, with horrors more huggable than otherwise
“A cartoonishly adorable monster cast populate the brightly colored pages of this uplifting tale. Through earnest and optimistic depictions of found family dynamics, Davault presents the ups and downs of relationships while emphasizing openness, communication, and acceptance.” – Publishers Weekly Foster’s Home for Imaginary Friends meets Hilda and the Troll in this spooky and sweet…
A poverty-stricken boy bravely rides out all the storms life keeps throwing at him.
A gripping new novel in verse by the author of the Printz Honor-winning Starfish, featuring a poverty-stricken boy who bravely rides out all the storms life keeps throwing at him Joe Oak is used to living on unsteady ground. His mom can’t be depended on as she never stays around long once she gets “the…
Books With Mental Health Topics for Kids Ages 8-12
Mental health is an extremely important topic to learn about, especially for kids emerging into teenhood. These stories feature mental health topics for your kids ages 8-12. There’s a new man in her mom’s life, and Victoria is determined to get rid of him—no matter what. Both a standalone novel and a follow up to…
Young People's Pavilion 