2026 Teen Book Reviews

Reviewed by Ayleen Z

Find it in our catalog

Imagine being able to see the future, but never knowing if the things you see will actually come true. In Violet Made of Thorns by Gina Chen, Violet Lune is a young Seer who has spent most of her life serving the royal family. She has always had a complicated relationship with Prince Cyrus, especially since he doesnʼt trust her prophecies and believes she twists the truth. Everything changes when Violet is forced to make a prophecy about Cyrus and his future. What starts as another prophecy soon becomes something much more dangerous. Violet and Cyrus have never exactly gotten along, constantly arguing and trying to get under each otherʼs skin. However, as they begin to uncover the truth behind the curse, placed on the kingdom, they realize that their futures may be more connected than they thought. With secrets being revealed and the fate of the kingdom at risk, Violet has to decide who she can trust and whether she can change the future she has always believed was already written. Will Violet and Cyrus be able to break the curse and save the kingdom, or will the prophecy finally catch up with them? With magic, secrets, royalty, and plenty of unexpected twists, Violet Made of Thorns is a book that keeps you wondering what will happen next. If you enjoy fantasy stories with enemies, who slowly become something more, mysterious prophecies, and characters who arenʼt always honest, this might be a book worth picking up.

Reviewed by Anonymous 

Find it in our catalog

The Song of Achilles follows the first person perspective of the main character Patroclus as he rivals growing up and living in ancient Greece. After being banished from his kingdom, Patroclus later meets Achilles and readers get to watch their relationship develop while facing events like war and prophecies. Overall, this is one of the most compelling and gut wrenching books I’ve read and can easily be enjoyed by a variety of people. At first, getting a grip on complicated Greek names and detailed paragraphs was difficult to do, however, I found that the longer I read, Miller’s writing slowly began to make more sense. Her word choices and descriptions make this story feel so relatable and realistic even in this modern time. Patroclus’ emotions and thoughts were beautifully written as he’s such a complicated character. Being able to relate and connect to the vulnerable topics in this story made it all the more interesting as a teenager today. Having Patroclus’ perspective while reading created a much more personal story while letting you connect to other characters. Seeing Achilles from Patroclus’ eyes helps humanize him to readers instead of viewing him as someone from an ancient myth. Miller also does a fantastic job at making morally complex characters. Most of them aren’t inherently “good” or “bad”, but instead make differing decisions and contradict their previous actions at times. As aforementioned, I truly believe that this book would be enjoyed by a diverse group of readers. It combines multiple genres of mythology, historical fiction, romance, and drama which contribute to a really amazing story for anyone reading.

Reviewed by E.A.

Find it in our catalog

The Dare by Natasha Preston is a young adult thriller about a group of high school seniors who decide to participate in a bunch of dares as a part of their senior year. At first, the dares seemed fun and not that serious, but things quickly get out of control. After one of the dares goes wrong, the characters have to deal with the consequences while also trying to keep what happened a secret. I actually really enjoyed this book because it kept me interested the whole time. There were so many moments where I wanted to know what was going to happen next. The story had a lot of suspense, and there were times I thought I knew what was going to happen but then something completely different happened. I also liked the main character Marley because she was determined and tried to figure out what was really going on. One thing I liked about the book was how it showed that one bad decision can turn into a much bigger problem. The characters thought they were just having fun, but their choices ended up affecting everyone. Some of the characters did make decisions that annoyed me a little bit because they probably could have avoided making things worse, but I think that also made the story more interesting. Overall, I would give The Dare a 4 out of 5 stars. I would recommend it to anyone who likes thrillers, mysteries, and books with a lot of drama and suspense. It was a pretty quick and easy book to get into and I definitely wanted to keep reading to find out how everything would end.

Reviewed by Theodore K

Find it in our catalog

A wonderful read. In this book, a client comes to the office of Mma Ramotswe, the only female private detective in Botswana, with a seemingly usual case: she wants to track down her family members. However, there is one catch. The woman is Canadian, and her most recent relative to live in Botswana was born in the 1920s. Meanwhile, Mma Ramotsweʼs opinionated but loyal assistant, Mma Makutsi, has bought an expensive dress for her bossʼ birthday, but unfortunately, the dress is too small for Mma Ramotsweʼs convincingly traditional build. Mma Ramotsweʼs must both find an obscure family off of a few details, and find a way to tactfully explain and rectify the dress mishap. This book is a wonderful exemplification of the truth that, in a book, one doesnʼt need to rush into the action. McCall-Smith paints a beautiful picture, finding ways to state simple truths that everyone takes for granted in a way that makes one feel truly happy about the world, and its under-appreciated beauty. One of the most beautiful books I have ever read, I strongly recommend it to anyone who wishes to get a glimpse into a world that, so different from ours, still is exactly the same.

Reviewed by M.W.

Find it in our catalog

The Queen’s Gambit is a 1983 coming-of-age novel by Walter Tevis about an orphaned girl, Beth Harmon, rising up as a formidable chess player and progressing to be an international grandmaster. Featuring themes of addiction, feminism, and adoption, the book was notably adapted into a Netflix drama mini-series in 2020. I read this book after watching the show, and while I remember the series being enjoyable to watch, the book felt a lot better to me. I think the adaptation was really playing up the drama a lot: romanticising relationships; keeping characters around that played insignificant roles; and introducing plotlines that distracted the viewer from the main storyline. Something I appreciated a lot that didn’t resonate with me in the show was Tevis’ characterization of Beth. Beth gets adopted at 15 (likely due to Anya Taylor-Joy’s appearance), but in the book, she is actually 13. This makes a huge difference in how I, as a reader, viewed the start of her chess career. When you step inside Beth’s mind, you quickly realize that despite her chess prowess, she is also a child: she’s arrogant, hates losing, and neglected overall. Beth was left to fend for herself at a young age, and that had lasting effects on her. She’s experienced immense trauma and damage from the negligence of other adults, and her sharp intelligence is what protects her through all of it. Chess is her only means of escape and survival, and has been for a long time. Her world revolves around chess, and it only makes her lack of maturity more obvious. The show did not make such a strong impression on me, which I think is largely due to the age of Beth’s actress. It also tried to play up the romance by expanding Beth’s relationships with multiple men. It is a lot clearer in the book that there’s only one viable partner for Beth, and that the others were just flings/crushes. Romance also isn’t the point of the book: her one true love is, ultimately, chess. I enjoyed the other themes of the book as well. Beth is initially frustrated with how the press portrays her a woman first, not a chess master, and it motivates her to seek higher accolades in chess. She also struggles with drug abuse and alcoholism throughout the book due to early addiction and spiraling: it gets very dark at some points in the book (lots of spoilers if I get specific). It also plays around with the idea of motherhood and family, since Beth develops a relationship with her adoptive mother. Finally, chess itself. I don’t know the slightest thing about chess, so it is probably more impressive to me compared to actual masters. It can get a bit boring or repetitive at some parts, but overall the chess scenes were very thrilling. The Queen’s Gambit isn’t really about chess, the same way Challengers isn’t about tennis—it is about the mental combat between the players. The competitors wear each other out; use psychological warfare; or play moves that the other player doesn’t expect. You don’t need much chess knowledge to understand these scenes: Tevis gives you enough description to know what’s really going on. Overall, I enjoyed this book thoroughly. It’s a captivatingly short read, written very well. I highly recommend it if you enjoyed the show, it’s like all the chess scenes but on steroids. It also just highlights Beth’s progression and growth into a young woman and how far she has come. 

Reviewed by Ayleen Z

Find it in our catalog

I actually ended up liking Red Hood way more than I thought I would. At first, I thought it was just going to be another version of Little Red Riding Hood, but it was so much different. It had mystery, creepy moments, and a lot of unexpected twists that made me want to keep reading to see what was going to happen next. My favorite part was probably Bisou, the main character. She wasnʼt perfect, which made her feel more real, and it was cool to see how much she changed throughout the story. Even though some parts were kind of weird or confusing at first, everything started to come together as I kept reading. There were also a few scenes that caught me completely off guard, which made the book even more interesting. I also liked that the book wasnʼt just about fighting wolves. It had deeper messages about growing up, being brave, and standing up for yourself. I wasnʼt expecting that, but I think it gave it more meaning. Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It was different from what I usually read, but thatʼs one of the reasons I liked it so much. If you're looking for something thatʼs a little creepy, full of surprises, and not your typical fairy tale, I'd definitely recommend Red Hood. Even if it seems a little strange in the beginning, keep reading because it gets really good. I honestly think more people should give this book a chance because it's one of those stories that sticks with you after you finish it. 

Reviewed by M.W.

Find it in our catalog

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a wonderful book. Set in the early 90s, it follows a freshman high schooler named Charlie, as he grows and learns to confront his lasting traumatic experiences. Why is it a wonderful book? Personally, I think it is because Charlie as a character drew me in. Being a teenager means you experience a lot of change in your life and identity. Chbosky is able to depict this very well—he matches the voice of a young adult in a thoughtful way. In the beginning of the novel, Charlie is shy, introspective, and naive; his language reflects this. As the story progresses, however, we are able to dive deeper into who Charlie is. We realize that he is not just ‘shy’—he is also incredibly empathetic, caring, and perceptive. Charlie allows his loved ones to be supported as they experience hardships, just by being there and offering a listening ear. He is just such a kind soul and you can really tell that he grows mentally, because not only does he expand his vocabulary, but he also learns to push outside of his comfort zone and fight for what he wants. That being said, this book also carries some heavy themes. Chbosky intentionally wrote this book for people going through rough times. Because of this, topics such as suicide, drug and sexual abuse, and the taboos of homosexuality are prevalent within the book. The Perks of Being a Wallflower has been challenged and even banned by some school districts due to explicit scenes. Despite the angry parents, I would argue that these heavy topics are absolutely necessary to the development of the plot. The overarching theme of the story is how people are able to come together to support each other even with all that emotional baggage. It is why Charlie is the perfect protagonist of the story, because even though he has been through heartbreakingly traumatic events, he still shows kindness and love to all his friends and family. You can tell he truly values everyone around him and it is why, even though he is a ‘wallflower’, he shines. 

Reviewed by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

This book follows a group of kids. The zombie apocalypse and end of the world have crashed together. They are a band of unexpected friends who are looking for a way to save the world. As they explore vast new areas they discover new dangers and allies who help them on their journey. This book in the large series follows Jack. Jack must save his friends as he is both aided and blocked by various monsters. As he moves throughout the world we see a vast change in scenery a lot of the time. This affects Jack a lot as he must be ready at all times for the unexpected. We see when he is calm and relaxed but many of these different environments have negative effects on Jack. As the story progresses, we see Jack as being overwhelmed by the new challenges he faces in the new terrain but he also doesnʼt want the heavy role of being the leader. As the story progresses through his vast hardships, we see him grow to become more adaptable to new situations and really fill the shoes of being the leader. It shows his growth throughout the story as he tries new ways to command a group of people to work together. It can really help the reader learn what it takes to lead a group of people. The book shows how the tactic of leading a group varies based upon who's in the group. This can change the whole dynamic of how you lead a group. The book shows us that even after you fail, you can still learn and grow to better sharpen your arsenal. 

Reviewed by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

This book follows the perspective of Lucas. He is an ordinary boy in a small town. He is going through his local forest at night when all of a sudden something happens. He awakes the next day feeling different almost as though he can hear other people's thoughts. This book sets you up in a small rural area. Small town with a small yet connected community that all interact with each other. This sets up the story of how Lucas interacts with his peers and continues to live his life. The setting very rapidly changes when Lucas wakes up the next day. The author paces this book very well. It keeps you on the edge as Lucas tried to figure out what happened that night. It will slow down at points and then jump into action. This will keep the reader looking to see what's about to happen when things get too calm. We can see a lot of growth with Lucas. At first when he goes to school he begins to become very overwhelmed. This is both from the expectations and the new ability he has acquired. This all comes crashing down on him. There are multiple occasions where he begins to frantically panic and stress out. As the story continues, he is able to better calm himself. He is able to control his emotions and slowly but surely control himself. This shows the reader, even though we arenʼt in the same situation as him, you can always find ways to calm your nerves. This is a very important lesson as many people find themselves overwhelmed and struggling to calm themselves. This helps the reader understand that everyone struggles but you have to find a way to calm yourself before you completely shut down. 

Reviewed by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

This book follows the story of Ian. He is a regular student amongst his peers and this book will follow his perspective. He has to face new policies from his school that he will often disagree with. This conflict will often clash with his morals and the need to fit in. The story follows him as he tries to navigate such problems. The setting is very similar to many students. The crazed hallways to the classrooms. It all falls into place as the setting feels very close to home. The setting also affects Ian as the setting will often change. He is affected differently by each of his surroundings which shows the unique and personal sides of him. The setting also changes with the people that surround him. It highlights the fact that almost everybody acts differently based upon their audience. This book can really connect to people as the setting is so similar to an experience almost everybody has gone through. The dread that Ian shares for school and the anticipation to go see friends at schools is something most people can connect to. This makes the book a more realistic and down to earth book that many people will have a personal connection with. As the story develops we can see that Ian slowly grows throughout the story. We get to see Ian go from a shy and small perspective to a bigger leadership role. He starts off shy and not wanting to be a part of the community. This slowly changes as the story progresses. He didnʼt want to voice his opinion but as the story grows he gains his voice. This shows just how much he is able to grow throughout the story. It shows the reader that even the most shy people can slowly grow to be a leader and have a voice. 

Reviewed by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

In the book Tintin by the author Herge, you are introduced to the character Hergé as he is a young reporter. It's a story that follows his stories and how he coordinated his life. The bookʼs pacing is very energetic. It jumps around very quickly with quick changes of pace. This keeps the reader on their feet. It really keeps you engaged as you read because you arenʼt going to be able to anticipate what's coming next. This often will create cliffhangers that leave you wanting to continue reading. The action happens so rapidly, the reader is pushed into the journey with Tintin, experiencing the sudden twists and turns as they happen. This creates an unpredictable momentum that ensures that the narrative never feels stagnant, making the book thrilling. A thing that feeds into this unpredictability is the change of settings. As we follow Hergé through his story he brings very different settings to life. This will often create new settings that will keep the reader hooked. This will often show how each setting affects Hergé. The settings are very different because as they change so does the attitude of Hergé. He interacts with environments in a way that just shows how people are very much affected by the environments that are in. Another thing that ties into this story is the way that Tintin is a rather simple character. He doesnʼt grow as much as many other characters in other books. but you can see the slight change throughout the book. This can connect to readers more as it's more realistic as people rarely change very much over restricted amounts of time. This creates a good connection with the reader that is maintained through the book.

Reviewed by Peter M.

Find it in our catalog

Eight months after the massive amount of twists, turns and other plot changes that was in the previous book, All In, the Naturals are still trying to take down the Masters cabal. But their investigation has started turning up dry so Cassie Hobbes, a Natural with the ability to profile anyone she meets, decides to go to darker means to get the information she meets. She goes to the serial killer and Deanʼs father Daniel Redding and after sharing personal details about themselves she gets the information she needs about the Masters. But the team is temporarily distracted to investigate a kidnapping, but it just seems too personal and random for the Masters. That is until they realize that the kidnapping was just staged by a girl who has deep connections to Michael, a fellow Natural. After this, Lia is able to take one for the team and gets critical intel that is invaluable for the hunt for the Masters. But Liaʼs personal journey brings scrutiny to her dark past. All the while, the Masters are at work, tying up loose ends and getting ready to stop the FBIs investigation once and for all. This time, more secrets will be revealed and stories ended…not everyone gets a happy ending. This book served as a great conclusion to the Naturals series as it brought more heart and emotion to a story that already overflows with that. This book is definitely one of the best Jennifer Lynn Barnes has written. It is the perfect thing to read to close out the Masters arc of the Naturals.

Reviewed by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

This book is set up in a normal world setting, this will then shift to a more unrealistic world. The two protagonists are both sisters, Irene and Evelyn. They are both very different people from each other. They very much dislike each other and the difference only creates an even bigger gap. They share a deep bond together but it's very hard to use when they both dislike each other. They start off in a normal urban school in the midwest, then the mystical part of the story comes in. This is where the story takes off when Irene is taken but she has to leave Evelyn behind. This will even further drive a divider into their relationship. The author heavily talks and shows the effects of jealousy that drives the sister apart. The jealousy the sisters endure causes them to both to the extreme and past breaking points. Another big part of this story is finding your own strength within yourself. The author pairs this with the jealousy to help show the characters’ growth throughout the story. This is how the author creates an interactive environment as the decisions the characters make actively affects their growth as a character. This book will heavily rely on the dual perspectives of the sisters. It tells two sides of the story that keeps you interested as it shows both sides that the sisters must face. It connects to many people as it shows that you may never fully know what someone else is going through and how sometimes even the closest relationships can be blinded to these hardships. This book can help many people open their eyes to many others and their problems and situations.

Reviewed by Peter M.

Find it in our catalog

Cassandra, “Cassie” Hobbes has never had a regular life ever since her mother disappeared and all that remained was a large amount of blood. She spent most of her life after that with her fathers family, making ends meet and trying to cope with her heavy loss. Then less than a year ago, she joined the Naturals program, a program dedicated to stopping serial killers. But Cassie has spent some time with her family over break until her father comes home with news, news that her mothers body has been found. Shortly after this, all the Naturals are called to Las Vegas to investigate a serial killer who kills people with different methods every time. The team are able to figure out a timeline of when they kill and plan to set a trap to stop them in their tracks. But after a shocking revelation is discovered, the team has to come to terms of how significant this killer can be. All the while truths are learned about the remaining Naturals as they confront their dark and terrible pasts. Now everything will change for this small team. This is probably the second best book of the entire series as it sheds more light on both pro- and antagonists. It blends all the perfect themes and ideas explored in the last two books and adds more interesting ideas to it. This book helps close most of the mysteries of all the other books and leads straight toward Bad Blood… 

Reviewed by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

This book starts in a small sunny town. Theo is on summer vacation out in a rural town looking for something to do. He decided to go through rivers to try and find anything of value. He started by looking through the various ones throughout the town but would only find junk. He heard stories of a haunted bridge at the end of a river and decides to go visit it with his friend Syd. They find something very old in the river and post about it. That's when things begin to turn very rapidly. As you are eased into the setting of this book you get to meet some of the characters but learn a lot about Theo. As the story transforms and shapes the characters together you can see the reliance on each other. The new encounters with their stalker leads to many new interactions. They must learn to work together and be able to count on one another in order to evade danger. The book slowly transforms from a fun adventurous story to a very suspenseful dark story. It was interesting to see how the author would allude and hint towards in the future. I found it very interesting when you can see the little easter eggs hidden in the story. It helped string the thoughts of the author towards the end of the book really well. This book keeps it very interesting by tying in small pieces of the story like a trail of crumbs. Everything leads up unto the end in which case everything starts to fall in place. If you were to read this then you should pay attention to the small things.

Reviewed by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

This book follows the story of Nate Thompson. It starts with him, his brother, and his father as they go on a family camping trip. It starts off as a wholesome trip but quickly starts to go downhill. They planned to watch the solar eclipse together over night whilst out in the mountains. This book starts off slow. They are having the times of their lives in the sunny mountains adventuring with each other. Then the suspense begins to build as eerie encounters begin to happen along their campground. The book shows the possibilities in the real world and that many obstacles can begin to build upon each other no matter the size. This book also shows how isolated things can get out in nature. It can affect how people perceive each other and how the wilderness can break down even the strongest of will. The book can connect to a lot of teenagers as it follows the hardships of siblings. The bickering and constant competition forces the boys to pivot against each other. The character arc is very interesting, as it shows just how siblings can learn how to come together. As the book starts, Nate disregards his brother and dismisses him. Then as they endure the hardships that nature throws at them, Nate and his brother begin to come together to work more together. As the story moves on, we can see the growth as their dialogue begins to grow and shape into more interactive dialogue with each other. I thought it was very interesting as the twists began to come and twist together. They bring the story to life as the suspense keeps you on your seat trying to see what's just past the fog of their camp. 

Reviewed by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

The story starts off in a small town called Bayport. The story follows the two brothers Joe and Frank Hardy in their summer time activities. They plan to attend a party before things go all wrong. They start off their summer in a sunny coastal town but as the plot grows, the cozy feeling of the town slowly slips. This book has a very interesting way of keeping the story moving along. The book relies on a lot of suspense and small spurts of action. This book keeps you on your toes throughout the entire plot. As the book takes you through this older version of the world, it reveals many old cultural fads of the time. It links you to a world that existed before many modern commodities such as iphones and the internet. This shows how the story can connect you to the past and lead you through the lenses of the characters. The author's way of telling the story really helps as it only allows you to know what the characters know, this then will make the book more immersive. When the characters interact with each other it is very basic. This brings the book back a little bit as they are limited by the lack of depth. The character development is very interesting as well. It's hard to develop characters at the same speed but as you learn more and more during this chapter of their very long story throughout the other books, we can see how much they change. Overall, this book is a window into an older era of technology and how the world worked. It creates a new bubble that allows people to see into the past and really disconnect from their devices both in the real world and in the book. 

Reviewed by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

The story starts off in a small town called Warsaw, Poland. The story follows a young boy named Uri and his parents as their lives are completely upended by the outbreak of World War II. They plan to live a peaceful life before things go all wrong when the bombs begin to fall. They start off their journey in a sunny, familiar home, but as the plot grows, the feeling of safety slowly fades as WW2 spreads. This book has a very interesting way of keeping the story moving along. The book relies on a lot of suspense and small scenes of action as the family evades danger across Europe. This book keeps you stuck in it throughout the entire plot as they travel from Siberia to the city of Turkestan. As the book takes you through this older version of the world, it shows the historical realities of the time. It connects to many big ideas and strings them together through the hardships they face as they flee Nazi control. This book is very cool in the fact that it takes you through many different settings and describes them in deep detail. The authorʼs way of telling the story really helps, as his unique illustrations make the book more immersive. When the characters interact with each other, it is often shaped by a childʼs understanding of war. This brings the book back to reality, even if some historical context feels limited by a childʼs perspective. The character develops a lot and it's very cool to go through this with him. It shows the growth humans can experience in dire times and how your experiences shape your ideas of the world. 

Reviewed by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

Safekeeping by Karen Hesse is a novel set in post-Civil War America. The book displays a teenage girl, Radley, who sets out to find her parents after their home country is reduced to destruction and chaos. The book follows her long journey from Haiti to Vermont and from Vermont to Canada. Over the course of her long expedition, she stays resilient, overcomes hardship, and meets two new friends who keep her company and give her a sense of belonging. She also comes across someone from her past, who gives her clarity and a clear view of what happened after America was politically overturned. Ultimately, I think the book has lots of great plot twists and deeper meanings that become clear once you reach the end. I also enjoyed reading about what her parents were like from her perspective, and how she stays positive at the thought of seeing them again. Without a doubt, the author uses great descriptions to paint a picture and show how the character is feeling, as well as thinking. Additionally, the true narrative behind what happened to Radley’s parents remains a mystery until the end of the book, when the story is revealed. As a result of this, the book has a strong sense of wonder and curiosity around it, which causes readers to feel inclined to reach the end and find out. Overall, I think the book is very fascinating and great to read, as well as perfect for someone looking for an intriguing novel filled with mystery. 

Reviewed by Nya C.

Find it in our catalog

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein is a fictional novel published in 2008. It is written from the perspective of a dog named Enzo, who recounts his life story along with his philosophical musings and observations of the world around him. The book begins with Enzo’s birth on a small farm in Spangle, Washington, where he is quickly put up for sale by his owners. He is adopted by Denny, a professional racecar driver, and soon develops a deep bond with him. Denny later meets Eve, whom he falls in love with and marries. Their daughter, Zoë, is born shortly before Eve’s unexpected illness begins, which causes tension throughout the family. When the situation escalates, Denny is forced to cope with loss and grief all while attempting to keep his job and family together. As Enzo watches Denny undergo numerous trials and tribulations, both on and off of the track, he ponders his own role in life and the implications of mortality. Enzo’s story teaches the value of family, importance of perseverance, and the art of patience. His witty narration and ruminative perspective, along with the genuinity and poignance of the story, create a story that is an absolute must read.

Review by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

Red Rising by Pierce Brown is a fast paced dystopian sci-fi novel following Darrow, a "Red" living beneath the surface of Mars. Darrow is under the belief that his people are sacrificing to make the planet habitable for future generations, but later discovers that Mars has been livable for centuries, but the ruling “Golds” are exploiting Reds, causing his whole world to unravel. After a heartbreaking loss, Darrow decides to join a rebel group called the Sons of Ares, transforming him into a Gold to infiltrate elite society and undermine them from within. One of the strongest aspects of Red Rising is it contains a blend of dystopian intensity, combining this with strategic, almost war-game-like competition. A large part of the book takes place in the Institute, where young Golds are forced to compete in brutal contests to determine their future power. Darrow must hide his true identity while competing against top ranked members of society, all possessing intelligence and ruthlessness. The stakes feel real, and the violence is a show of how deeply corrupt this civilization is. Darrow is a compelling protagonist due to the fact he’s constantly torn between the ruthless and violent role he must play, and the compassionate, gentle soul he once was. His growth throughout the book is well paced, the supporting cast adding complexity, alliances, and betrayals that keep the story unpredictable. Overall, Red Rising is an emotionally complex and exciting story about rebellion, identity, and the cost of power. Readers who enjoy dystopian worlds, political strategy, and morally complex and complicated characters will find this book gripping from start to finish.

Reviewed by Garth Stein.

Find it in our catalog

Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter is a charming young adult romantic comedy that blends classic rom-com tropes with genuine emotional depth. The story follows Liz Buxbaum, a hopeless romantic who views life through the lens of her favorite movies, believing her own love story should unfold the same way. When her childhood crush returns, she enlists her irritating neighbor Wes Bennett to help win him over, but only to discover that real love doesn’t follow script. One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its playful use of familiar romantic comedy cliches. The “enemies to lovers” dynamic between Liz and Wes is predictable, but in a comforting and enjoyable way. Rather than feeling overdone, it feels like a love letter to the genre, filled with witty banter and heartfelt moments. The chemistry between the characters is engaging and their interactions are often funny, sweet and relatable. Beyond the romance, the book explores deeper themes such as grief, identity and the difference between idealized love and reality. Liz’s attachment to rom-com fantasies is tied to the memory of her late mother, adding emotional weight to her journey. As she grows, she learns that real relationships are imperfect but meaningful. Which is an important and relatable message to the readers. The writing style is light, fast paced and engaging making it an easy and enjoyable read. The story flows well and the romantic tension keeps readers invested throughout the book. I found myself hooked by the emotional build up and butterflies during moments between the characters. However, Liz at times can be frustrating, especially when her obsession with romantic ideas leads her to make questionable decisions. Overall, Better Than the Movies is a fun, heartfelt and nostalgic read that celebrates romance while gently challenging its cliches. It’s perfect for fans of light contemporary romance and anyone who loves the magic of rom-coms, both on screen and on the page. 

Review by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

To All the Boys Iʼve Loved Before is a charming novel following the life of Lara Jean Covey, a hopeless romantic who is in high school. At the start of the book, you get to briefly hear about her previous crushes before something absolutely crazy happens, causing chaos throughout her family and school life. Additionally, there are other conflicts that occur that make her life even more wild, especially going through all of this while managing being a teenage girl, which sometimes can feel like a job in and of itself. Lara Jean has an adorable bubbly personality that is charming and fun to relate to. I also admire how crafty she is, and her love for baking, which are two qualities you will quickly get to know about her. Additionally, you will quickly fall in love with the other characters in the book. Author Jenny Han does a great job giving everyone relatable personalities, naturally why the characters are so likable. The book takes place in Charlottesville, Virginia, the charming hometown of the University of Virginia. The imagery in this book is very impeccable. When Lara Jean goes on trips, wears a new outfit, visits a favorite restaurant, or spends the afternoon with her little sister, Kitty, everything is so vividly painted that you almost feel like you are there yourself! Lara Jean's father, Mr. Covey is also really funny, as is Kitty, and her more serious but also kind older sister, Margot. You can also watch this book after reading it because it is on Netflix! And if you are sad about it being over, there are two more books in the three-book series, and another show about Kitty (XO Kitty)!! In conclusion, I would recommend this sweet novel to someone in the mood for a cozy comfort read.

Review by N.E.

Find it in our catalog

William Golding’s book, Lord of the Flies is a powerful allegorical novel that goes deep on the dark side of human nature through the story of a group of British teenagers that are stranded on a deserted island due to a plane crash. At first, the boys attempt to create a civilized society, electing a leader and establishing rules within their society. However, as time goes by the boys develop numerous struggles, and their survival instincts begin to take over, their society quickly collapses into chaos and violence. Golding’s writing vividly captures the boyʼs descent from innocence to savagery and violence. Characters like Ralph and Piggy represent order and reason, while Jack and his hunters symbolize primal instinct and power. The conch shell shows the symbolism of authority and democracy, and the “beast,” representing internal human fear, is used effectively to illustrate Golding’s message: that civilization is fragile and can easily crumble when humans are left unchecked by society’s rules. The novel is both disturbing and thought-provoking. Golding forces readers to confront the uncomfortable truths about morality and human behavior. Despite being published in 1954, its themes remain deeply relevant today, highlighting the importance of leadership, group thinking, togetherness and the thin line between civilization and savagery. Overall, Lord of the Flies is a timeless and unsettling masterpiece of a novel. It challenges readers to question what the truth is that lies beneath the surface of humanity and reminds us how quickly order can turn to chaos when fear and power dominate.

Reviewed by Leah J.

Find it in our catalog

This book follows the story of a young, determined girl named Patina. Her main struggles throughout the book are dealing with personal challenges at home, and at school, all while learning the importance of accepting help from others. As she struggles to adjust to her new school, and deals with grief and loss, running track brings her peace. Despite having conflicts with teammates and classmates at school, Patina experiences character growth by realizing that leaning on others doesn’t make her weak. The story highlights her character traits of maturity and self compassion, making it an interesting and relatable book for readers of all backgrounds. I enjoyed reading this book because the characters were realistic and the plot was interesting. The author does a great job of expressing Patina’s emotions and her relationships with the other characters throughout the story. The pacing of the story is good and doesn’t drag. This story was a window for me because I do not run track or have a younger sibling. The story was also a mirror for me because just like Patina, I also try my best to succeed and always try to find areas of improvement. Overall, I think this is a really good book and I would highly recommend it. 

Review by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

Moby Dick is Herman Melville’s classic novel about obsession, fate, and humanity’s struggle against forces larger than itself. The story is narrated by Ishmael, a thoughtful sailor who joins the whaling ship Pequod in search of adventure. What begins as a simple whaling expedition quickly becomes something darker when Ishmael discovers that Captain Ahab is consumed by a single purpose: hunting down Moby Dick, the massive white whale that previously destroyed his ship and severed his leg. One of the most compelling aspects of the novel is its atmosphere, Melville masterfully blends philosophical reflections, detailed descriptions of whaling life, and moments of suspense to create a world that feels both vast and isolating. The ocean slowly morphs into a symbol of the unknown, and the long journey across it mirrors the psychological journey of the characters. Even though the book includes many chapters that slow down to explain whale biology or ship procedures, those sections help build a sense of realism and make the final chase feel earned. Captain Ahab is an unforgettable character. His relentless quest for vengeance drives the entire crew toward danger, and Melville shows how Ahab’s obsession spreads, influencing even those who doubt him. Ishmael, meanwhile, offers a grounded and reflective perspective, allowing readers to question the meaning behind Ahab’s mission. Overall, Moby Dick is a challenging but rewarding novel, combining adventure with deeper themes about obsession, free will, and humanity’s relationship with nature. Readers who enjoy classic literature and stories that raise big philosophical questions will find Moby Dick both powerful and thought-provoking.

Review by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

The Odyssey is an epic poem attributed to Homer that follows the long and perilous journey of Odysseus as he attempts to return home after the Trojan War. The story blends adventure, mythology, and moral lessons, making it one of the most influential works in Western literature. Odysseus faces countless obstacles, including the Cyclops, the Lotus-Eaters, Circe, and the Sirens, each of which tests his cleverness, resilience, and leadership. These challenges show how intelligence can be more powerful than strength alone, which is one of the poem’s central themes. Another important element of The Odyssey is the idea of homecoming. Odysseus’s determination to return to Ithaca, to his wife Penelope and son Telemachus, gives the narrative emotional depth. Penelope’s loyalty and cleverness mirror Odysseus’s own qualities, creating a sense of balance between the characters. Their reunion at the end of the poem is both satisfying and symbolic, emphasizing the value of patience and faithfulness. The poem also explores the consequences of pride, the importance of hospitality, and the unpredictable nature of the gods. While divine interventions often help or hinder Odysseus, they highlight how ancient Greek culture viewed fate and human responsibility. Although the language and structure of The Odyssey can be challenging, especially for modern readers, the story remains engaging because of its vivid imagery and timeless themes. It offers not only exciting adventures but also reflections on identity, perseverance, and the meaning of home. For readers interested in mythology, heroism, or classic literature, The Odyssey is a rewarding and enduring work. Its lessons continue to resonate with readers today.

Review by Luke M.

Find it in our catalog

Summer of the Monkeys by Wilson Rawls is one of those books that just feels like sunshine and dust roads, even when it gets serious. It is set in the Ozarks and follows Jay Berry Lee, a stubborn, determined kid who hears about a bunch of circus monkeys that escaped into the woods near his home. Most people laugh it off as a tall tale. Jay Berry does not. He sees it as his big chance to make money, prove himself, and finally get something he has been wanting for a long time. The plot is basically a long chase mixed with a summer adventure. Jay Berry tries every plan you could imagine to catch the monkeys, and just when you think he is done, he comes up with another idea. That is what makes the book so fun, it has this steady “what is he going to try next” energy. But it is not only comedy and chaos. The heart of the story is his relationship with his sister, Daisy, and the way their family and small community show up for each other. It ends up being about more than catching monkeys. It is about growing up, learning what matters, and realizing that pride is not always as important as love. My opinion: I enjoyed it a lot. It is easy to read, it is genuinely funny, and it has that classic feel where you can picture everything like a movie. It also left me in a better mood after reading, which not every book does. If you want a positive, wholesome story with adventure, family, and a main character you cannot help rooting for, Summer of the Monkeys is a solid thumbs up.
 

Reviewed by E.A.

Find it in our catalog

Powerless by Lauren Roberts is a young adult romantic fantasy novel set in a divided kingdom where power determines status. The story follows Paedyn Grey, an “Ordinary” living in the kingdom of Ilya, a society divided by powerful Elites and powerless citizens. To survive, Paedyn pretends to have psychic abilities. Her life takes a dangerous turn when she saves Prince Kai, an Elite with the ability to sense different powers. She is then forced to compete in the deadly Purging Trials with other Elites. As Paedyn struggles to hide her secret, she becomes entangled in a tense, complicated and evolving relationship with Kai. The plot is fast paced and filled with tension, especially during the Trials which hooks you immediately. I found it gripping and hard to put down. Paedyn stands out as a compelling protagonist because she relies on intelligence rather than magical power and her ability to be able to be vulnerable makes her relatable. Kai on the other hand, adds complexity through his internal conflict between duty and emotion. Roberts’ writing style is emotional and dramatic, with a strong focus on romance and the tension between the two main characters. The novel explores themes of inequality, survival, identity, and power. The contrast between Elites and Ordinaries serves as a metaphor for privilege and oppression, adding depth beneath the fantasy elements. Powerless is a captivating and emotion charged read, especially for fans of romantic fantasy. Its intensity and character dynamics made it compelling. The book shines most when focusing on Paedyn’s struggle to survive in a world stacked against her throughout the story. Overall, Powerless is a gripping debut that blends action, romance, and social themes all together. Readers who enjoy books like The Hunger Games, Divergent or other romantasy/dystopian worlds with strong emotional stakes, high risk competitions, and complicated characters will find this book enthralling from start to finish.

Reviewed by P.M.

Find it in our catalog

Most people have an average life and a regular childhood, but the same can not be said for Cassandra Hobbes. Cassandra or Cassie is trying to live through a traumatic childhood memory but along with that she also has a gift. She is able to figure out a profile for any person she meets and it isnʼt long before high-ranking officials catch wind of her natural talent. She is met by a strange but intelligent boy who gives her a surprising offer. Soon after this, she is recruited to join the Naturals, a group of people who work alongside FBI officials to help uncover murders. Her fellow naturals include the following: Michael, a person who can read any emotion a person has. Sloane, a gifted statistician who excels at analyzing and processing data. Lia, a skilled liar who can instantly tell whether you are lying or not. Finally there is Dean, a boy with a dark past who is able to get into the mindset of others. They all must learn to live and operate together as they uncover dark truths about themselves and others. All the while, a killer is murdering in a way that Cassie is all too familiar with. This book is a great read for anyone who loves a good thriller, crime, mystery or romance story. Jennifer Lynn Barnes, the mind behind the beloved Inheritance Games universe, has delivered another great series that has just as many twists and surprises. I would definitely recommend this book to readers of A Good Girls Guide to Murder and Killing November because of its sleek and refined takes on good and bad characters, fun twists, and well done action. 

Reviewed by Luke M.

Find it in our catalog

This book follows the story of a young, determined girl named Patina. Her main struggles throughout the book are dealing with personal challenges at home, and at school, all while learning the importance of accepting help from others. As she struggles to adjust to her new school, and deals with grief and loss, running track brings her peace. Despite having conflicts with teammates and classmates at school, Patina experiences character growth by realizing that leaning on others doesn’t make her weak. The story highlights her character traits of maturity and self compassion, making it an interesting and relatable book for readers of all backgrounds. I enjoyed reading this book because the characters were realistic and the plot was interesting. The author does a great job of expressing Patina’s emotions and her relationships with the other characters throughout the story. The pacing of the story is good and doesn’t drag. This story was a window for me because I do not run track or have a younger sibling. The story was also a mirror for me because just like Patina, I also try my best to succeed and always try to find areas of improvement. Overall, I think this is a really good book and I would highly recommend it.

Find it in our catalog

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen is the kind of book that wastes zero time getting you into trouble, and then makes you figure it out step by step. It follows Brian Robeson, a teenager flying in a small plane to visit his dad when everything suddenly goes wrong and he ends up alone in the Canadian wilderness with only a hatchet for real survival gear. From there, the story becomes a gritty learning curve: Brian has to build shelter, find food, make fire, deal with animals, and handle the mental side of being totally isolated. The main conflict is survival against nature, but the bigger fight is Brian versus panic and hopelessness. What I liked most is how practical and visual the writing is. Paulsen makes you feel the cold water, the hunger, the bugs, the fear at night. It is not dramatic in a cheesy way, it is dramatic because it feels possible. The book also does a good job showing how Brian changes, not with some big speech, but through small wins and mistakes that slowly turn into confidence. You can tell he starts out as a regular kid, and then the wilderness forces him to grow up fast. My opinion: I was locked in the whole time. It is a simple concept, but it stays interesting because every choice matters. I also liked that it made me think about how most people, including me, would probably overestimate how prepared we are until it is real. If you like survival stories, outdoor adventures, or anything that feels intense without being complicated, Hatchet is an easy recommendation. Thumbs up.

Review by Luke M.

Find it in our catalog

Jon Krakauer’s Into the Wild is a nonfiction story that feels like both a mystery and a character study. It follows Christopher McCandless, a young man who abandons a normal path after college, cuts ties with comfort and expectations, and sets out on the road under a new name. Krakauer traces his travels across the American West and eventually toward the Alaskan wilderness, piecing together where he went, who he met, and what might have driven him. The central conflict is largely person versus nature, but it is also person versus self, because the hardest fights in the book are about identity, pride, independence, and what it means to live with nothing but your own choices. The way the book is organized kept me hooked. Krakauer does not tell the story in a straight line. He jumps between timelines, interviews people McCandless encountered, and adds background about McCandless’s family life and the ideas that influenced him. That structure makes it feel like you are investigating alongside the author, slowly getting a clearer picture without having everything handed to you right away. My opinion shifted while reading. At first I admired McCandless for being bold and fearless, because there is something appealing about rejecting a fake life and going all in on adventure. But as the story went on, I also felt frustrated at times, because his confidence can come off as reckless and he often refuses help when he probably should not. Still, I never stopped caring about what happened to him, and that is what makes the book powerful. Overall, thumbs up. It is intense, thoughtful, and surprisingly emotional, especially if you like the outdoors, true stories, and books that make you argue with yourself while you read.

Review by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen is a classic novel that blends romance, social critique, and humor through the story of Elizabeth Bennet and her complicated relationship with Mr. Darcy. Set in early nineteenth-century England, the novel explores themes of class, marriage, reputation, and personal growth. Elizabeth, intelligent and independent, often clashes with the expectations placed on women of her time. Her quick judgments, especially of Mr. Darcy, reflects the novel’s central idea that first impressions are not always accurate. One of the most engaging aspects of the book is Austen’s portrayal of the Bennet family. Their financial insecurity and the lack of a male heir create pressure for the five sisters to marry well. While this situation leads to moments of humor—especially through the dramatic Mrs. Bennet—it also highlights the limited choices women had in Austen’s society. Elizabeth’s refusal to marry for convenience sets her apart and makes her a refreshing character who values personal happiness over social approval. Mr. Darcy’s development is equally important. Initially proud and distant, he becomes more likable as the story progresses, revealing a kinder and more generous nature. The gradual shift in his relationship with Elizabeth, from misunderstanding to mutual respect, gives the novel emotional depth. Austen’s sharp wit and precise language make the story enjoyable, while her insights into human behavior keep it relevant today. She offers a thoughtful critique of social norms without losing the charm of a compelling love story. Overall, Pride and Prejudice remains a timeless novel because of its memorable characters, engaging plot, and warm humor. It continues to resonate with readers who appreciate stories about growth, honesty, and the power of understanding.

Reviewed by Anonymous

Find it in our catalog

Walden by Henry David Thoreau is a reflective and philosophical work exploring the author’s attempt to live simply and deliberately in nature. Thoreau spends two years in a small cabin near Walden Pond, seeking to step away from the pressures of society and discover what is truly essential in life. The book is a blend of memoir, social criticism, and nature writing, and its meditative tone encourages readers to examine their own values and habits. One of the most compelling aspects of Walden is Thoreau’s emphasis on simplicity. He argues that people often burden themselves with unnecessary possessions, routines, and expectations. By stripping his life down to the basics—food, shelter, meaningful work, and quiet reflection—Thoreau demonstrates how much freedom can come from living with intention. His observations about time, productivity, and materialism feel surprisingly relevant even today. Nature plays a central role in the book, not only as a setting but also as a source of wisdom. Thoreau’s detailed descriptions of the changing seasons, wildlife, and the pond itself reveal his deep appreciation of the natural world. These passages slow the reader down, mirroring the peaceful rhythm of Thoreau’s daily life. They invite us to notice beauty and meaning in small, ordinary moments. Thoreau also challenges conventional ideas about success. Instead of measuring achievement through wealth or status, he encourages readers to seek personal growth, clarity of thought, and inner peace. While some of his views may come across as idealistic or impractical, they provoke valuable reflection about how society shapes our priorities. Overall, Walden is a thoughtful and inspiring book that urges readers to live more mindfully. Its blend of philosophy, nature writing, and personal reflection makes it a timeless meditation on what it means to live a purposeful life.