Young Adult Fiction: Wayfarers by Jeff Zentner and Brittany Cavallaro

The second collaboration between authors Jeff Zentner and Brittany Cavallaro promises a road trip with two teens, both looking for an escape. The Wayfarers follows Sylvie and Knox as they trek from Michigan to North Carolina, wanting desperately to connect to each other, but afraid to reveal the whole truth of what they left behind.

The Situation: At one point, Sylvie was excited about this trip. The plan was to graduate high school, drive around and see all the sights in the van she worked so hard on, and then attend college in the fall. And while the basic plan is the same, the situation at home has changed, and Sylvie does not believe she has the right to enjoy herself. For Knox, there has never really been a plan, other than survive. Used to a nomadic life on the road, he decides it is time to maybe find a place to call home. When he breaks his arm while chasing down Sylvie's dog, Winslow, she decides to make sure he is okay, and offers him a ride to his next destination. 

The Problem: There are certain questions Knox is not excited to answer about his past, and same is true for Sylvie. She is fine talking about her issues with her mother, her not-so-great stepfather, and her plans for college, but the topic of her ex-boyfriend is off limits. Knox is fine talking about his own chaotic mother, the grandmother he misses, and the unconventional way he grew up, but he leaves out certain details that he is pretty sure would cause Sylvie to kick him out of her van. The thing is, they each want to know more about the other, but are terrified of sharing too much of themselves. They will each have to decide if it is worth sharing the worst of themselves, and risk losing whatever it is they have just found.

Genre, Themes, History: Written in both prose and verse, this is a young adult fiction novel that begins in Traverse City, Michigan, and follows Sylvie and Knox as they make their way down to Indiana, back up to Wisconsin, crossing Illinois a second time to enter Kentucky, and through Tennessee to get to North Carolina. The trip is one Sylvie had been planning for, and she even made extensive changes to the luxury van she bought in preparation. Knox grew up with his mom and a roaming group of people, criss-crossing the U.S. as they move from campsite to campsite, spending as little as possible and stealing what they can. The two teens could not have grown up more differently, and yet they each have reasons to want to leave the only life they have known. Guilt and regret move them forward, while also threatening to keep them apart.

My Verdict: I always look forward to diving into pretty much anything Zentner writes, and my excitement grew once I learned that this collaboration was written in both prose and verse. Having Sylvie and Knox's thoughts be written as poems is incredibly effective and powerful. While one grew up in privilege, and the other grew up in a constant state of impermanence, they each have stories of tragedy and sadness, and their intention of keeping the worst of themselves hidden away makes for these tense moments that are frustrating for the reader, yet I was compelled to keep reading and see how (or if) these kids were going to work it out. It is a story about trust and taking chances, particularly when experience may have lead us to believe that both can be a bad idea. 

Favorite Moment: There is a stretch of highway where Knox and Sylvie encounter not one, but two different billboards for two different psychics, and the adventures that follow each are pretty funny.

Favorite Character: Sylvie gets in a fender bender with a woman named Lara, who is both kind and helpful. I kinda wish she had stuck around in the story for a little longer.

Favorite Quotes: "I spent a lot of time blaming everything and everyone else. But there's no freedom in that." - Lara

"This world will grind you up if you're not brave." - Knox

"I choose uncertainty over the certainty of
the small existence that's for those
who lack the backbone
to make their life their own." - Knox

Recommended Reading: I recommend Zentner and Cavallaro's previous book, Sunrise Nights. 

Young Adult Fiction: Evie and Her Nightmares by Francesca Zappia

Back in 2018, I read and adored Francesca Zappia's Eliza and Her Monsters. It was the book that gave me the idea of learning to draw, and even creating or beginning some sort of writing project that included artwork. So strange and funny that nine years later, my own project is finally seeing the light of day, and at the same time, Zappia comes out with a stand alone companion novel, Evie and Her Nightmares. This time, the focus is on a different character, as well as a different fictional world.

The Situation: For Evie Leigh, being in a world without Alissa is nearly unthinkable. And the idea that Alyssa killed herself is the hardest thing of all to come to terms with. Alissa had everything. Everyone liked her. She got along with everyone. And she was Evie's best friend. It is hard for Evie not to wonder about the signs she missed, or what she could have done to convince Alissa to stay. When Evie is given the book series that Alissa was obsessed with, Children of Hypnos, she decides to give them another try - along with the online game - despite not being able to relate to them before. The books quickly become a tether to Alissa, and a way to escape.

The Problem: As a teen with AuDHD, Evie already has difficulty navigating some social situations, an area in which Alissa excelled. But there is a funeral and memorials to attend, and high school to deal with, along with other students, many of whom are also not the best with processing Alissa's death. In the Children of Hypnos online game, Evie does not have to deal with any of that. Her competitive nature serves her well, and the drive to connect more with something Alissa loved leads her to become a top player. But ignoring reality only works for so long, and Evie will have to face her grief eventually.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction book set in modern day, and focusing on high school junior Evie Leigh. After her best friend commits suicide, Evie is gifted a set of Alissa's favorite book series, and immediately becomes lost in the same world that her friend was obsessed with. At the beginning of the book, Zappia does include a note of warning that the story deals with suicide and suicidal ideation, depression, self-harm, and even eating disorders. Many of the main characters are experiencing grief in one form or another, and it is not only Alissa's death that is discussed. Characters and stories from Eliza and Her Monsters are mentioned, and much like that book, this one also includes the occasional illustration.

My Verdict: Of course I was excited for a new book by Zappia, and one that was a companion novel to the previous book that influenced me so much. Evie's story and journey is incredibly emotional, and heartbreaking, as well as relatable. She has lost someone close to her, and all of the questions about what she could have done better, why did it happen, why are other people pretending they knew Alissa, why are they pretending they care...for many readers, these questions may hit a little too close to home. As Evie moves through her grief, Zappia confronts many issues openly and honestly, as much of what she is dealing with is not easy. I recommend the book, but I echo Zappia's warning to take care of yourself while reading.

Favorite Moment: My actual favorite moment is very spoilery, so I will simply say that I did appreciate Evie's love of running track and competing.

Favorite Character: Evie's track teammate Haley seems genuinely supportive of Evie and cares about her.

Recommended Reading: As mentioned, this is a stand alone novel, but its companion, Eliza and Her Monsters, also looks at a life spent mostly online. 

Young Adult Fiction: Change of Plans by Sarah Dessen

Hard to believe it has been seven years since Sarah Dessen's last book was published, but it is true. There was a time when the author had a new offering every two years, like clockwork. But this year, readers were finally treated to Change of Plans, where a young girl must adapt quickly when her summer plans are dramatically altered.

The Situation: Finley has graduated high school and can only look forward to heading off to the same college as her boyfriend, Colin. Before that, there is summer, which includes a good few weeks with her mom, away from her dad, stepmom, and three half-siblings. Finley and her mom, Cat, have never been close, with Finley always wondering why her mom left when she was still so young. That question ends up being joined by several others when Cat announces that plans have changed, and they will be joining Cat's sisters, Finley's aunts, at their soon-to-be-sold family vacation home. Suddenly, Finley is surrounded by family members she never really knew, in a place she has never known.

The Problem: After a phone call from a vacationing Colin, Finely is now in an even more confused state than she already was. It is not enough that her aunts and her mom are trying to quickly sell the family vacation home, but her cousin is also getting married, the diner Aunt Kasey owns has never been busier, and now the conversation with Colin has Finley questioning her future plans. And there is still whatever has been going on with Cat: why she stayed away from her parents and her sisters, why she left Finley and her dad, and why she is suddenly wanting to sell the family home. By the end of the summer, everything will be different, including Finley.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction novel set mostly in and around the small community where the family vacation home was built. Finley is a recent high school graduate who was initially prepared to spend her summer with her distant mother in New York, but instead was rerouted to spend it with family she barely knew. Finley quickly gets to know a whole host of new people, both family and otherwise, while also rethinking her time in high school, as well as her plans for the future. Dessen readers will be familiar with the author's common setting choice of a small vacation/resort-like community, along with a whole host of local characters.

My Verdict: There may come a time when I am no longer excited to hear that a new Dessen book is coming out, but that time has not yet come. After a seven-year hiatus, I was glad to pick up this book, and for the most part enjoyed what I found in the pages. Finley is the typical recent high school graduate looking towards an uncertain future, and her hopes and dreams and doubts are all relatable. The people she ends up meeting in this new small community allow for all the questions that would further her self-reflection and growth. If anything, the plot and storyline are a bit predictable, and the love interest part is a bit hard to believe, as well as uninteresting. Something about this book makes it feel like it is both trying too hard, and also not trying hard enough.

Favorite Moment: When Finley visits the Egg, her aunt's diner, for the first time, she jumps right in and helps after seeing how absolutely slammed it is, despite having no experience working in food service.

Favorite Character: Finley's Aunt Liz is a pillar of support and wisdom, without being intrusive. She has enough going on with her daughter's wedding, but is always available to help where she can.

Recommended Reading: Along for the Ride is still my favorite Dessen novel.

Young Adult Fiction: Hear Ye Mortals by Yamile Saied Méndez

Author of 2020's Furia has released another young adult novel set in Argentina, but this time during the political tumult of the late 1970s. The Aguirre brothers love music, and love making music with their friends. But during a time when musicians are considered enemies of the state, they have to think of their friends and loved ones, while also wanting to rebel against the forces that want them to stay quiet.

The Situation: Adrián cannot imagine a life without his brother Daniel. Together, the two of them write songs (Daniel the music, Adrián the lyrics) for their band. Along with three other friends, they practice regularly and look for opportunities to break out. When Adrián writes a song that references pigs, many warn that he has to change the lyrics, as the police will believe the song is about them. The boys insist it is not, but the song mysteriously reaches the airwaves, becoming popular overnight, and can be heard from every radio in seemingly every house and store in Rosario. Daniel is thrilled, while Adrián is cautiously optimistic about what this could mean.

The Problem: The boys have been warned that to take ownership of the song could mean bad news, and when one of their bandmates goes missing, they fear their innocent song has brought real problems to their friends and family. With curfews being enforced; people being dragged into green cars; libraries being destroyed; and school clubs being canceled with those involved being brought in for questioning; Adrián fears that at any moment, he or Daniel may be next. But surely running and/or hiding cannot be the answer. Making music can be their way of taking part in the resistance. However, those in power are ready to inflict unspeakable pain on anyone they choose, and the Aguirre brothers must not only think about themselves, but their friends and family as well.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult novel set in Rosario, Argentina in 1976, beginning during the reign of Isabel Perón. At the start of the book, the situation is already dangerous, but things get worse once Perón is removed from power, and a military junta is installed. At the center of the novel are the two Aguirre boys, Daniel and Adrián, who lead their band and write the songs they play, including the one that ends up becoming a song of protest for the people in Argentina. The book mentions the curfews, the disappearance (and subsequent interrogations via torture) of the people, and the government's attempts to destroy libraries, books, and knowledge, all told through a mysterious narrator.

My Verdict: While my knowledge and enjoyment of the author's previous book is what ultimately led me to this one, I was also intrigued by the title, which is lifted directly from Argentina's national anthem. The story is fast-paced and with many characters right from the start. There are so many that it is easy to get confused at first, but everyone is soon easily distinguishable, with their own traits and flaws and history. The choice to have the narrator telling the story to an uninvolved third party is an interesting one, but it works well to bring more attention to what was happening in Argentina at the time. Readers are invited into a story of hope during a time when having hope could seem foolish, even reckless.

Favorite Moment: Near the beginning of the book, the musicians figure out what the name of their band should be, and it is perfect.

Favorite Character: Adrián is a soft-hearted young man who simply wants to write and play music with his brother, and be around the people he loves. Unfortunately, he lives during a time where even these two simple things are not allowed.

Recommended Reading: The historical fiction novel The House of the Spirits by Isabelle Allende is a very different novel, but could make for an interesting follow-up. 

Young Adult Fiction: Midnight on the Celestial by Julia Alexandra

It is the final week of YA Fest, and to close out June we are going to take a closer look at Midnight on the Celestial by Julia Alexandra. When it is determined that people with magical abilities cannot be trusted to use them responsibly, they are sent to the Celestial, a ship where they can earn a second chance, or potentially lose their magic forever.

The Situation: For Roe Damarcus, death is really not that big of a deal. As a resurrector, she has been summoning spirits of people who have died since she was a girl. Many find what she can do to be scary, until they wish to see someone they love who is no longer alive. Then they risk being close to her, even holding her hand, as their loved one takes shape before them. But Roe's trial is coming up, and if she fails, she will have her Morphia - the substance that gives her the ability to summon the dead - extracted from her body. The other option would be to board the Celestial, a ship where Morphics who have failed their trial can earn a retrial. But Roe's father, Lord Damarcus, has made it clear that working on the ship is a different experience from being a guest on it.

The Problem: When the unthinkable happens and Roe fails her trial, she decides to take her chances aboard the Celestial. But her life of luxury has not quite prepared her for small living quarters, rude guests, unforgiving bosses, and a ship with unspeakable horrors that come alive after dark. Thankfully, Roe has found a small network of friends willing to help her out, although their strong and handsome leader seems less than excited that she is there. It is clear that being aboard the Celestial is going to be hard work, but when things turn deadly for a guest, Roe must confront the ship's true dark reality, and her family's connection to it.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a fantasy young adult fiction novel set in the fictional land of Tamarynth, where Morphics exist, each with their own abilities. There are shifters, enhancers, emotives, illusives, time winders, crafters, menders, alchemers, and of course, resurrectors such as Roe. If a Morphic is determined to be too dangerous, their Morphia is taken, which is the exact fate Roe is wanting to avoid. For Roe, being a Morphic is everything, and she cannot imagine what her life would be like if she was not one. With the majority of the action taking place on the Celestial, readers will also get to see different parts of Tamarynth, and plenty of magical displays.

My Verdict: What drew me to this book was the idea of a ship where the guests can have magical experiences such as creating artwork that moves, and flying over the water with magical wings, but for the workers, conditions are brutal and the work is beyond demanding. While the book certainly delivers on that front, what I did not expect was for the horrors of the Celestial to be as horrific as they are. Many of the descriptions are more gross than they are terrifying, and the reasons for why the ship becomes so dangerous at night are not exactly clear. Neither are the motivations of the villain for their exact course of action. Ultimately, the overall adventure is entertaining and not at all predictable, with the story leading readers through a world of fearful magic. 

Favorite Moment: The guests that Roe must work for on the Celestial are privileged and demanding, but she does get a glimpse into their humanity at key moments.

Favorite Character: Alana is an emotive who is key to helping Roe get acclimated to the Celestial.

Recommended Reading: I realize I recommend this book often, but Emily J. Taylor's Hotel Magnifique would pair fairly well with Alexandra's book. 

Young Adult Fiction: The Escape Game by Marissa Meyer & Tamara Moss

People who love escape rooms really love escape rooms. And there are those people that are also really good at them...the more challenging the better. They are elaborate puzzles that often come with a story, and a time limit that adds to the challenge. For this third week of YA Fest, The Escape Game by Marissa Meyer & Tamara Moss brings the idea of escape rooms into a reality TV game show, where teams of four teenagers compete for an ultimate prize. But things get serious when the stakes get raised, and a contestant ends up dead.

The Situation: Sierra Angelos is back for season five of The Escape Game...which has to be the twists of all twists given how season four ended. When the body of Alicia Angelos was discovered during last season's final episode, it was pretty much universally believed that Sierra, her sister, was responsible. But she is back for the new season, and her teammates are as shocked as the audience. Beck is obsessed with the show and even makes escape rooms in his own time. Carter is a math-whiz and influencer with her own impressive following. And the cryptographer Adi...did not actually want to be on the show, but his mother pulled some strings, and it does bring him closer to one of his personal goals.

The Problem: Sierra knows she will be painted as this season's villain, just like she was last season, but she is determined to find justice. This means being a team player and working with the three people she just met, even though she is pretty sure they all see her as a murderer. Add to it that her team is the one the other teams will be eager to sabotage, and things get more difficult. When the clues start showing up, and not the ones that are related to the show, but the ones related to the very real murder of season four, everyone realizes just how high the stakes really are. The players must use their skills to stay on the show, stay alive, and find Alicia's killer.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult thriller set mostly on a set in Hollywood for the reality TV show The Escape Game. The four main characters, Sierra, Beck, Carter, and Adi, are set to participate in the fifth season of the show, and it is a highly anticipated season given that season four ended with the murder of Sierra's sister, Alicia. Each chapter is told from the point of view of one of the main four, with the occasional interview or map of an escape room placed in between. Given that the book includes escape rooms as part of a bigger murder mystery, there are plenty of puzzles and riddles that both the characters and readers have a chance to work through, including one letter that can be read by holding the book up to a mirror. 

My Verdict: I expected twists and turns, the occasional red herring, more than a few betrayals, and perhaps even a surprisingly touching or heartfelt moment, but there is a lot going on in this book. I am happy to report that the actual escape rooms for the game show do play a big part in the story and do not end up being an afterthought, even when it becomes clear that there is so much more happening. And each character has their own history and motivation for being on the show, and a reason for why they specialize in what they do. If I had any issue with the book, it would be how often readers may have to employ the suspension of disbelief. But overall, this is a fun mystery and adventure.

Favorite Moment: There is a moment when Carter rises to meet a challenge that nearly everyone (including Carter) believed she could not do.

Favorite Character: This is a grab bag of flawed people, but Adi has his moments of both genius and redemption.

Recommended Reading: I recommend One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus.

Young Adult Fiction: Carnival Fantástico by Angela Montoya

We roll right into the second week of YA Fest with Angela Montoya's Carnival Fantástico. This year's San Antonio Book Festival allowed me the pleasure of meeting the author and having my book signed, further adding to my excitement for the story inside. With the dazzling cover art and the promising premise, I knew this was going to be a page-turning adventure.

The Situation: If Esmerelda hopes to secure a future that does not involve time in jail or a life on the run, then she must become the top act in the Big Top Show at Carnival Fantástico. Currently, she is serving as the carnival's fortune-teller, using her cleverness and boldness to gather just enough information about her patrons before feeding them a future she does not actually see. Becoming the top act means not only being invited into a competition, but also being able to meet three challenges and impress the ageless ringmaster, Ángel Veracruz. Esmerelda is ready to do whatever it takes and let nothing ruin her chances, not even the reappearance of the only boy she ever loved.

The Problem: Ignacio is desperate to find evidence of his father's crimes. He never thought the search would lead him to Carnival Fantástico, but key clues pointed in the direction of the magical show, and Ignacio believes someone there can tell him the real reason his father has kept his country and his people involved in an ongoing and terrible war. When he finds Esmerelda, he has to focus if he hopes to succeed in his quest, but her previous betrayal, and his current feelings, are making that difficult. They manage to come to an agreement: If she helps him expose his father, then he will help her become the lead act. But neither of them know that the carnival holds bigger and older secrets than they thought possible.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction novel that I have seen tagged as fantasy, romance, and of course, romantasy. Set in the early 1900s in the fictional land of Costa Mayor, Esmerelda is a young woman who is ten months into her one-year contract with the magical Carnival Fantástico, though she is desperate to stay on, for her own safety. Not only has Ignacio defected from his father's army, but he has joined a resistance movement and is desperate to expose the war for what it really is. The two teenagers have now found each other after a painful separation that left both sides extremely hurt and angry, but they realize they have a better chance of achieving their goals together than they do apart.

My Verdict: This is the kind of romantasy I can get behind. I love the setting of the carnival. I love that it travels by train (I love trains...) as it moves about the country. I love that those that enter the carnival are encouraged to dress up in costume. I loved all of the animals and how nearly each one was given a distinct personality and traits. And I loved that the initial story was not the whole story, and that even the secrets in this book have their own secrets. It is a magical adventure with just enough twists and turns to keep things interesting, but not exhausting. Sure, some of the characters occasionally got on my nerves, but it was often short-lived frustration, and it all pays off in the end. 

Favorite Moment: It felt incredibly satisfying when Camila confronted Esmerelda over what a terrible friend she can be.

Favorite Character: Camila is part of a strong woman show with her sister, Pilar, and the two of them also have a chance of becoming the main act in the Big Top Show. She is a good friend, a great sister, and may be loyal to a fault.

Recommended Reading: I recommend The Reader Trilogy by Traci Chee. 

Young Adult Fiction: They Call Her Regret by Channelle Desamours

It is YA Fest once again, which means all the posts for the entire month of June will be on a young adult fiction title. And to kick things off, we have They Call Her Regret by Channelle Desamours. In this speculative mystery, a young girl finds herself in a race against time after making a deal to save her friend's life.

The Situation: Simone Washington is known for her horror-themed parties, and this Halloween is her last chance to throw a memorable one before she graduates. But when she reads about the local Doll's Head Lake and the spirit that is supposed to haunt it, she decides to throw a small overnight party with only her friends just a couple of weeks before. With the help of her best friend Kira, she knows this will be a night to remember, and will probably allow for even more excitement for the ultimate Halloween bash. Or at least that was the plan until Kira had to be pulled from the lake, unresponsive, after an argument. Now Simone would do anything to change what happened, and there is a spiteful spirit that is willing to help her out, at a cost.

The Problem: Simone has 14 days to come through on her end of the bargain she made with Regret to save Kira's life. If she succeeds, not only does Kira live, but Simone will be freed from all of the regrets that have consumed her over the last few years. But should she fail, Kira will surely perish, and Simone will be the one to make it happen. The clock is ticking, and Simone must unravel the mystery of Doll's Head Lake, causing her to dig deep into the past of her town, and the disappearances that have occurred at the lake over many years. She desperately wants to succeed, while also doing what is right. But when she struggles with her own secrets and hidden truths, it is the life of her best friend that may be sacrificed.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a work of horror fiction, with a healthy amount of mystery, thriller, and paranormal worked in. On the night of her 18th birthday, Simone hosts an overnight party at her brother-in-law's cabin near Doll's Head Lake. The lake has another, much more normal name, but it is known for the collection of dolls that people have left behind for the spirit known as Regret. And it is after an unfortunate argument that Simone is forced to deal with Regret herself. There are many secrets that are dealt with, and of course regrets, along with incredible guilt, shame, and even some grief.

My Verdict: This is a short read that moves quickly, but has a lot to offer in its pages. Partying teenagers in a cabin near a lake; a vengeful spirit; creepy dolls; fortune tellers; buried secrets; and a ticking clock as time runs out towards a deadline with terrible consequences. From the beginning, Simone and her friends are pretty annoying, and a little clueless, but really, that fits when it comes to the horror theme. Things get real for everyone pretty quickly, but Simone must examine her own motivations and past, and acknowledge her own part in everything. Horror fans will have a good time, as will those who enjoy a good mystery.

Favorite Moment: The first appearance of Regret is appropriately creepy and unsettling.

Favorite Character: Everyone is dealing with some amount of regret, large or small, in this book. But Simone's friend Cory is helpful, forgiving, and kind, and can listen without interrupting or diverting.

Favorite Quote: Simone asks "Why does the cost of correcting my mistakes have to be so high?" Oh honey...

Recommended Reading: Nearly anything by Tiffany D. Jackson would work well. 

Young Adult Fiction: A Stage Set for Villains by Shannon J. Spann

Once in a great while I will take a chance on a book that for whatever reason is not something I would normally pick, usually because it may lean too far into fantasy or romance for me. Oddly enough, Shannon J. Spann's A Stage Set for Villains is both, but the premise is intriguing. Set in a land where performers at an enchanted Playhouse are dangerous and feared, a young woman takes an enormous risk by joining them. 

The Situation: Eighteen year-old Riven Hesper fears both the Players and their Playhouse, just as she has been taught to do as a resident of the North. She also has a terrible memory of being attacked and cursed by a Player ten years ago, and it is a curse that has alienated her from everyone, including members of her family. Also, it is slowly killing her. Then an opportunity is presented to her: a chance to not only be healed, but maybe even exact some revenge. The Playhouse is offering a chance for one person to steal a Player's immortality, all they have to do is win a competition. Truly, Riven has little to lose, and she may even get some answers.

The Problem: It is clear that the competition will be difficult, and dangerous. Riven is one of five competitors, each being mentored by one of the Players, and her mentor just happens to be the charming and merciless Lead Player, Jude. But in the Playhouse, nothing is quite as it seems, and the more secrets Riven uncovers, the less her life, including her place in this competition, seems to make sense. It is also clear that this competition is something bigger, grander, and more horrifying than she initially thought. What is certain is the scripts have power; memories cannot be trusted; and we cannot always be sure we are the hero in the story.

Genre, Themes. History: This is a work of fiction set in the land of Theatron, where an expiring treaty had banished the Playhouse and its fearsome Players to the South, keeping them from having an audience in the North. The Players are beings with incredible power, actors that can only survive if they have an audience, though they are often cruel and unforgiving when wielding their power. At the center of the story is Riven, who was cursed by a Player ten years ago and is desperate to reverse it. The chapters are broken up across three 'Acts' with an intermission between the first and second one, and the book even ends with a curtain call and encore. 

My Verdict: A lot happens in this book, and what is refreshing about it is that the author allows over 500 pages for all of that action to take place. There is plenty of room for these characters to run around and have their adventures, with almost none of it feeling rushed. Sure, there are some parts that are maybe given too much space, and the twists and turns can be tricky to navigate, but readers are never left behind. The world that Spann has built comes through in just enough detail without getting bogged down, and it is a world that is complicated, but not overly so, and with plenty of magic and wonder to satisfy a fantasy reader. 

Favorite Moment: I enjoyed the initial introduction of the five Players and their different characteristics. 

Favorite Character: Titus is my favorite Player. He is big, loud, brash, boarish, and thoroughly insecure...and he knows it and does not care.

Recommended Reading: Some aspects of this book did remind me Hotel Magnifique by Emily J. Taylor.

Young Adult Fiction: Beth Is Dead by Katie Bernet

Not to judge a book by its cover, but I totally judged this book by its cover. I mean, look at it. The eye-catching pink and impossible to ignore blood dripping off of the letters. And then, that first word in the title...somehow I knew that the Beth in Beth Is Dead by Katie Bernet was the third March sister in the classic novel Little Women by Louisa May Alcott. Usually I am not big on retellings or reimaginings, but after reading the premise, I knew I had to give this book a try.

The Situation: Ever since their dad published a book with his four daughters as the main focus, the lives of the March sisters has not been the same. By far his most popular book, Little Women tells a fictionalized story of their lives, and there are readers who love it, and plenty who hate it. Many protested the idea of a man writing about girls. Others believe it was exploitive...and included in that number are at least two of his own daughters. There is the attractive and responsible Meg; ambitious and driven Jo; the party girl screw-up Amy, whom every reader of the book loves to hate; and then Beth. Sweet angelic Beth, who dies at the end of her father's book. The controversy surrounding the book drives Mr. March into hiding, and life moves on as well as it can, until life decides to imitate art, and Beth is found dead.

The Problem: It was New Year's Eve, and while Meg is away at Harvard, Beth and Amy attend a friend's annual New Year's Eve party, as Jo stays home, content to work on her writing. But Amy comes back alone, and when Beth is still gone in the morning, she and Jo go out to look for her, only to discover unimaginable tragedy. Now with a murder investigation underway, the three remaining March sisters find themselves once again in the public eye, and due to the chaos of the night, seemingly everyone is a suspect. What becomes clear, is that everyone also has secrets they do not want uncovered by nosy detectives, including the surviving March sisters. 

Genre, Themes, History: This is a work of fiction that focuses on the March sisters, Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy, from the Louis May Alcott novel Little Women, originally published in two volumes in 1868 and 1869. Each chapter is from the point of view of one of the sisters, including Beth, and is either set 'Then,' before Beth's death, or 'Now,' after she has died. Bernet brings the sisters into the modern era by giving them cell phones, social media accounts, email addresses, etc. But she also makes Jo's ambition a little more caustic, and turns Amy into a rebellious teenager who is constantly being suspended from school. The sisters also do not get along as well as they did in the classic novel, but they must work to stick together if they are going to find out what really happened to Beth.

My Verdict: I will first say that it has been years since I have read Alcott's classic novel, but I do remember enjoying it, and can recall enough to know that the sisters in Bernet's novel are very different, but with many similarities. The main similarity is that in both books, *spoiler alert for those who have not read the original* Beth dies. And while the original novel paints a picture of a sisterhood that many would envy, the girls in this book made me glad that I only had a brother. Die hard purists may have a hard time with how the sisters are presented against a modern day backdrop, but if readers can allow themselves to have fun with the premise and get a little lost in the mystery, I think they will enjoy hearing from the different sisters and seeing the drama unfold. 

Favorite Moment: Throughout the book, Beth is often seen as the forgotten sister, or at the very least, the one few are interested in. This is mostly because of the way her father portrayed her in his novel, so it was nice to see the moments when she would stand up herself, assert her own opinion, and go for what she wanted.

Favorite Character: Beth is an easy choice, but I will also pick Meg. She has her flaws and makes more than a few questionable decisions, but she takes her role as the oldest sister seriously and shows up for her family.

Recommended Reading: Naturally, I recommend Alcott's original book, as well as Tiffany D. Jackson's The Weight of Blood, a retelling of Stephen King's Carrie. 

Young Adult Fiction: We Fell Apart by E. Lockhart

The latest novel by YA author E. Lockhart is a stand-alone story, but still in the same universe as her incredibly popular We Were Liars and Family of Liars. While We Fell Apart is its own thing, some characters form the previous two books are referenced, as is the fire that occurred on the island.

The Situation: When Matilda receives a letter from the father she never met, it is her chance to meet the man she has always wondered about. Kingsley Cello is not only her dad, but a world-famous and reclusive artist, whose paintings are worth millions. Matilda's mother has always avoided talking about him, while pursuing her own passions, often moving herself and her daughter to follow the latest plan, and man. But now that Matilda is technically an adult, and her mother is not even in the same country, she is free to decide to fly across the country to meet Kingsley. But while she is not immediately greeted by her father, she does meet her half-brother, a former child-actor, and another young man who only wants her to turn around and go back home.

The Problem: Matilda arrives to a castle in a sort of chaos. Her half-brother Meer is thrilled she is there, but his mother, June, was clearly not aware that Kingsley contacted her and asked her to come. Brock is goofy, but helpful, and Tatum is immediately on his guard, seemingly aware that Matilda's presence could upset whatever living situation they have worked out among themselves. As Matilda gets settled into life at the castle, Kingsley remains mysteriously absent, and there is a truth that is staying hidden and out of sight. She will have to do her digging if she wants answers, because no one is going to offer any.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction book set around the same time as Lockhart's first book, We Were Liars. The fire on Beechwood Island has just happened, and Matilda even gets a chance to visit the wreckage. With a father that has only now reached out to her as she has graduated high school and is about to attend college, and a mother that decided she would rather live away from her daughter than stay with her in California, Matilda is a young woman who is used to people leaving her. She is not sure what to expect from the man that everyone has hailed as a genius and visionary, but it certainly is not a half-brother who is starved for attention; a sort-of step-mother who seems detached, but also controlling; and a young man who knows more than he says, but infuriates Matilda as much as he draws her in. 

My Verdict: Of the three books in the We Were Liars universe, I found this one to be the most engaging, though also frustrating. What Lockhart does well is portray a group of people who are clearly going through something and not handling it very well. They are all nice enough, but there is this facade of being free spirits that only masks their irresponsibility, and also their anxiety over the situation. And as much as I wanted to like Matilda, her lack of tact and observation skills were grating. And I did not quite believe in the chemistry of the romance that later occurs. 

Favorite Moment: When Meer buys a bunch of baby birds (chickens, ducks, etc.), it is a cute moment, but also a telling one. And it is clear that while Meer and Matilda are excited, this new hobby is not going to go the way they had hoped.

Favorite Character: This is one of those books where most of the people are nice, but that does not mean they are likeable. As sweet and kind as most of them are, these are not people I would want to be stuck on an island with.

Recommended Reading: As a follow-up to this book, I recommend The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner.

Young Adult Fiction: The Scammer by Tiffany D. Jackson

Author Tiffany D. Jackson has returned with another young adult thriller, this time taking place on a college campus during a young girl's first semester of her freshman year. During a time of new experiences and people, in a new and exciting, though unfamiliar place, she will find herself finally feeling like she fits in, until another newcomer soon has her questioning every part of herself.

The Situation: Jordyn Monroe arrives in Washington, D.C. ready to start her first semester of college. After attending a predominantly white prep school in Connecticut her entire life, she is excited to be attending Frazier University, one the most established HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) in the U.S. It may go against her parents wishes, who are still furious with her for turning down her spot at Yale, but Jordyn is determined to make her plan work. When she is immediately embraced by her three roommates, Vanessa, Loren, and Kammy, Jordyn wants to believe that fitting in here will be much easier than it was in high school.

The Problem: While finding a rhythm with her three roommates proves to be fairly easy, and a welcome development, having Vanessa's brother, Devonte, appear in their common living room, needing a place to stay, certainly throws things off balance. The older man is fresh out of jail on a false charge, and the last thing Jordyn wants is to have to say no to Vanessa. It helps that Devonte is charming, intelligent, and helpful around the dorm, but the longer he is around, the more reasons Jordyn has to suspect that something is up. As Devonte continues to impart his wisdom on his young audience, the number of people hanging around the dorm continues to grow, as do Jordyn's suspicions. And when a roommate goes missing, Jordyn reaches out to an likely source for help.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction novel set in and around the campus of the fictional Frazier University, an HBCU that Jordyn chose to attend over Yale, despite her parents' obvious disappointment. It is her first semester in college, living on campus with three other roommates, all from different places around the country. What Jordyn wants more than anything is to make friends and fit in, making it that much harder to risk being the only one to object to Devonte's continued presence, despite his heavy and incessant lectures, and intense attention. His ability to make himself the center of their world is as troubling as it is insidious, and breaking his spell will not be easy.

My Verdict: This book is intense. I could use all of the cliche adjectives to describe it: roller-coaster, wild ride, action-packed, page-turner...you get it. It is the first book that I have managed to finish in one morning in a long time. But I did it, because I had to know how it all turned out, even though there were many moments that were hard to stomach. Sure, the villain is terrible and does terrible things, but there are some decisions Jordyn makes that were hard to accept, even as I turned to the next page or moved on to the next chapter. This one is great for lovers of thrillers, true crime, and also people who love watching documentaries about cults. It is Jackson doing what she does best.

Favorite Moment: Jordyn gets the opportunity to go home with a friend for Thanksgiving, and their family is easily the most delightful group of people in the entire novel.

Favorite Character: Nick is the lone white student on Frazier's campus, but he manages to hold up under the inevitable scrutiny that comes his way.

Recommended Reading: Earlier this year, Jackson published her first middle-grade novel, Blood in the Water. 

Young Adult Fiction: The Book of Anansi by Angie Thomas

The second book in the Nic Blake and the Remarkables series is here! Author Angie Thomas is continuing her middle grade series with The Book of Anansi, and once again, Nic and her brother Alex, along with her best friend JP, must do their best to outsmart and outrun very real dangers, while a troubling prophecy hangs over her head, making her question every decision she makes. 

The Situation: Life is indeed now very different for Nic than it was for her first ten years. Not only does she have a present mother, and twin brother, but she now lives in the hidden city of Uhuru and is about to begin attending a school only for Manifestors such as herself. Nic is glad to be around her mother and brother, and more than relieved that the punishment for her dad is not more severe than it is, and she still gets to see him whenever she wants. But the truth still remains that she is prophesied to be the Manowari, the person who will bring about the destruction of the Remarkable world. It feels like a truth everyone is tiptoeing around. Well, everyone who knows anyway.

The Problem: Nic's former favorite author, Tyran Porter, knows about the prophecy, and is determined to fulfill his part of it as the one who is supposed to stop the Manowari. While he is currently in exile, it has not stopped him from starting his own podcast, one that was initially dismissed as the rantings of a conspiracy theorist, but is gaining listeners by the day. If that was not enough, a mysterious but powerful group has tracked Nic down, and demands she locate a powerful artifact, or they will reveal the truth about her. It feels as if Nic has no choice but to do what they say, but every adventure brings more problems, as well as opportunities for her to use this new power that she is terrified of. 

Genre, Themes, History: This is a book geared more towards middle grade readers, and is the second book in Thomas' Nic Blake and the Remarkables series. Having survived the events of the first book, and finding out she has a mother and twin brother, Nic now finds herself living among other Remarkables in Uhuru, and about to attend a school for Manifestors. She cannot help but make comparisons between this world and the Unremarkable world she grew up in, and it does not take long for her to realize that they both have issues regarding class and discrimination, no matter how much her grandmother insists that everything is for 'the greater good.' And then there is the prophecy she wishes she could outsmart, but despite everyone's attempts, it seems Nic is on track to become something she is not sure she wants to be.

My Verdict: This is a wonderful follow-up to 2023's The Manifestor Prophecy. Nic is now in a new place, attending a new school, complete with five different kinships that the students are sorted into (think the houses in Harry Potter). And while her brother Alex and best friend JP have returned for more adventures, there are still plenty of new characters to get to know, as well as a few new villains. Plus, readers get a look into the wider world of the Remarkables, which includes fairies, mermaids, werewolves, shapeshifters, even giants who are known for their ability in a sport closely resembling basketball. The story is complicated, but not overly so, and deals with identity, as well as what it means to protect those you love.

Favorite Moment: I love any mention of JP's life back in the Unremarkable world. 

Favorite Character: It is a tie between Ms. Lena, one of Nic's good friends from her previous life, and Mami Wata. Both women have no time for nonsense, but ultimately want to be helpful.

Recommended Reading: I recommend Tiffany D. Jackson's first middle grade book, Blood in the Water, also published earlier this year.

Young Adult Fiction: Sisters in the Wind by Angeline Boulley

Since the publication of her first novel, Firekeeper's Daughter, author Angeline Boulley has become a household name for YA readers. And while her most recent offering, Sisters in the Wind, does contain some of the characters from Boulley's two previous books, it is considered a standalone novel, but still within the same universe.

The Situation: Lucy Smith's dad died five years ago, and for most of that time, she has been in the foster care system. But for the last six months or so, she has managed to be out on her own, living in a small but clean and respectable apartment, while earning and saving money by working at the Pleasant Diner. When a Native American man enters the diner and asks Lucy to join him when she gets her next break, she is already thinking of exit strategies and where she may head next. After he last foster care placement, Lucy has been on the run and always prepared to once again head out on the road and make another life somewhere else. But the man insists he wants to help, and while Lucy is extremely cautious, she also really wants to believe him.

The Problem: While the Native American man, Jamie, and his friend Daunis do appear to have Lucy's best interest in mind, she knows she is being followed and still in incredible danger. She throws out every misdirect that she can to keep her pursuers from finding her, but she will eventually have to tell Jamie and Daunis about her past, and why someone may be looking for her. Even as she holds on to her secrets, Jamie and Daunis have a big reveal for her, something her dad failed to tell her. Not only is Lucy part Native American, but she has a family that would be able to take care of her. It is a lot to take in, and Lucy has little time to decide what direction to go in next.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction book that takes place in and around Michigan, and is set between the years of 2002 and 2009, although there is a brief moment when Lucy goes as far back as 1996, when she was six years old. As 2009 Lucy tells her story, she goes back in time and talks about her dad, how he died, and everything that followed, including the multiple homes she lived in while in foster care. It is only after meeting Jamie and Daunis that she finds out she is part Native American, and that her social workers should have followed the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978. But because that did not happen, Lucy stayed in foster homes that were varying degrees of safe and dangerous, with the last one giving her enough reasons to stay on the move and always look over her shoulder.

My Verdict: Boulley gives readers another intense story full of complicated characters, determined and greedy villains, and plenty of mysteries to solve. As the story progresses and Lucy reveals more of her past, both to the readers and to Jamie and Daunis, it is clear that she has been through a lot, but Boulley manages to reveal the most delicious details of the story in a way that keeps the story engaging and riveting, and somehow also not frustrating or tacky. There is a near-constant sense that things are going to come to a head, but how and who it will involve remains unclear until the final few pages. 

Favorite Moment: Lucy makes plenty of mistakes, and is often confronted with the fact that she does not know everything, but she can and does defend herself against an attacker, remembering the advice of one of her foster sisters.

Favorite Character: It was nice to have Daunis back in a story, and as an adult who is now able to help out someone younger who is going through a tough time. 

Recommended Reading: I recommend Boulley's previous two books, both part of the Firekeeper's Daughter world. 

Young Adult Fiction: Blood in the Water by Tiffany D. Jackson

Author Tiffany D. Jackson is no stranger to the YA genre, so I was interested to see what happens when she writes a mystery and suspense novel geared more towards middle grade readers. Blood in the Water follows a young girl who is investigating a mysterious death while away from home on summer vacation. As with all of Jackson's books, nothing is quite as it seems, and the young detective has her work cut out for her.

The Situation: Kaylani McKinnon is not exactly excited about spending the summer at Martha's Vineyard, away from her home in Brooklyn. It means staying with a strange family she has not seen in years, in a house she does not know, and even further away from her dad, who is in prison on embezzlement charges. Every night, Kaylani waits for him to call, always feeling like the minutes run out too quickly, and there is too much time before the next day, when she will get to speak to him again. Despite her misgivings, Kaylani ends up at Martha's Vineyard with the Watson's, and their annoying granddaughter, London.

The Problem: It is clear that London is even less excited than Kaylani about her staying with her family. London's older sister Cassie is not too thrilled either, but she is more distracted by a few of the boys her age on the island. Kaylani does her best to get comfortable, even managing to make some friends, until tragedy strikes the island and a young boy ends up dead. With a few recent shark sightings in the waters surrounding the island, people are not sure if the boy's death is the result of a rare shark attack, or something more sinister. Kaylani is eager to solve the case, but the more she finds, the more secrets are revealed not only about the island, but the people she is staying with.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a middle grade novel set mostly in and around Martha's Vineyard. Kaylani is on the island as a guest of the Watson's, a wealthy family that spends their summers on the island, which means Kaylani is there along with the Watson's granddaughters, Cassie and London. For the majority of the story, the main antagonist is London, whose only interests include clothes, makeup, and being able to be seen with her older sister Cassie, who is less than interested in being around the two younger girls. During her time on the island, Kaylani will learn about the history of Martha's Vineyard, as well as the nature of shark attacks, all while trying to solve the possible murder of a local boy.

My Verdict: When I first realized that this book was going to be geared more towards middle grade readers, I wondered how Jackson was going to tailor her writing for a younger audience. As with several of Jackson's previous books, this one includes a murder mystery, but is not quite as heavy as far as the subject matter, which works well for younger readers. There is still a mystery to solve, very real danger to be avoided, and plenty of suspicious characters that may or not be on the protagonist's side. Almost any reader of any age can recall the feeling of having to spend a summer somewhere other than where they want to be, which is where Kaylani's story starts, and then it devolves from there. This is a smart, quick, and enjoyable read.

Favorite Moment: London is spoiled, stuck-up and annoying, and everyone knows it. It was satisfying to see some of the characters pointedly seek out Kaylani's presence instead, despite her being an outsider, and most everyone knowing her father is in prison. 

Favorite Character: Kaylani is smart, and stubborn when she needs to be. Her father also taught her to be observant and to know her surroundings, something that comes in handy more than once.

Recommended Reading: My favorite of Jackson's books remains to be Monday's Not Coming. 

Young Adult Fiction: Audre & Bash Are Just Friends by Tia Williams

Author Tia Williams is perhaps more well-known for her adult romance books, such as Seven Days in June. When I learned that a character from that book would be the star of her first young adult novel, Audre & Bash Are Just Friends, I went on a mission to pick up both books and read them. In today's book, Audre goes on her own mission that will be crucial for her application to Stanford, and the person that is going to help her is the mysterious new guy in town.

The Situation: High school junior Audre Mercy-Moore loves to help her fellow students, and she only charge $45 for each therapy session. Of course, she is not a professional, and also still in high school, but despite this, Audre is excited to use the upcoming summer break to work on her self-help book, a side project she is convinced will impress the Stanford admissions board. But when her plan to visit her dad in California falls through, she needs to find the time and quiet space to finish her book, and also obtain more material and experience than her perfect student/perfect daughter lifestyle has allowed for. Lucky for her, Bash Henry is fun, mysterious, and, if the rumors are true, always ready for a good time.

The Problem: When Audre hired Bash as her "fun consultant," it was mostly due to his reputation. Everyone seems to have a crush on him; he seems to show up to every party (and has thrown a few of his own); and he has a sort of effortless and unbothered vibe that Audre could never accomplish. She is determined to stay focused on her book, but she also cannot deny that Bash is attractive, and smart, and nice. And it seems that the growing romantic feelings are mutual. But the 'mystery' of Bash presents a problem. Sure, some of the rumors are clearly false, but Bash is definitely holding something back. This should help Audre keep things professional, but that only gets more difficult the more they hang out with each other.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction novel set in and around modern-day New York City, specifically Brooklyn. Audra has just completed her junior year of high school, while Bash has graduated after transferring mid-year from California, where he was a track star. The character of Audre Mercy-Moore first appeared in Williams' Seven Days in June as the daughter of author Eva Mercy. In this book, Audre is still charging for therapy, is still ambitious and driven, and still does not know the truth about Eva's past. And Bash is running from a decision that ended everything back in California, and for this first time must figure out his future, since the one his dad planned for him is no longer an option.

My Verdict: Not only do I believe that fans of teen rom-coms will love this one, but fans of Williams' writing will love it as well (both teens and adults). Audre was a fan-favorite character from Williams' previous book, so having her be front and center here will delight many. And even though she is older now, she is still head-strong, funny, and outspoken, and ready to take on nearly anything. Bash may be a mystery to everyone around him at first, but as his story unfolds, the reader is given insight into a young man who has been through too much, and now has little in the way of guidance for whatever comes next. The book is fun, heart-warming, insightful, tense in places, and an overall enjoyable read.

Favorite Moment: During this summer break, Audre must complete five challenges (put together by her friend Reshma) in an effort to come up with material for her book. I will not say what the fifth challenge is, but it is incredibly satisfying when Audre completes it.

Favorite Character: I am so pleased that Audre got her own book, as I know many readers are.

Recommended Reading: I recommend Nicola Yoon's The Sun Is Also a Star.

Young Adult Fiction: Dear Manny by Nic Stone

When Dear Martin first appeared on shelves back in 2017 (same year as Angie Thomas' The Hate U Give), I had no clue that it would end up as the first book of a trilogy, and if the letter to the reader at the beginning of Dear Manny is any indication, neither did author Nic Stone. But here we are, and it could not feel more appropriate. I once had the pleasure of hearing Stone speak and having her sign two of my books, and I am thrilled to see her continue to tell stories, even difficult and challenging ones, aimed at younger readers. It is the perfect book for this last week of YA Fest.

The Situation: Jared Peter Christensen is being challenged. Sure, he is currently sitting in his Constitutional Law class, which is a class that is taught with the students and professor all sitting in a circle of bean bag chairs as they discuss, well, the constitution. The questions are challenging on purpose, as are the ensuing debates as the students' often opposing views are argued. But Jared also has to deal with a fraternity he is a part of, but does not particularly like; a father he knows does not approve of him, but whose approval he is not sure he wants; plus, the last few years have been pretty rough, beginning with the night his best friend Manny died. And now, it seems he has foolishly accepted Dr. Yeh's challenge by attending a meeting of the Undergraduate College Council, and becoming a candidate in the upcoming student elections.

The Problem: Enter Jared's next big challenge in the form of his opponent, John Preston LePlante IV. Like Jared, John Preston is a straight, white, wealthy legacy student, but his stance on the issues is incredibly different. Standing out and apart from him as an opponent should prove no problem, but when a third candidate enters the running, Jared is not at all sure what to think about Dylan M. Coleman. He has never met the guy and has no clue what he stands for. All Jared knows is that he has to win, and John Preston for sure has to lose. But in the coming weeks, Jared will have to wrestle with more than just campus politics. When he starts writing letters to Manny, Jared has to confront what really motivates him, what he actually stands for, and decide what kind of person he wants to be.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction novel set at an Ivy League university where Jared is a student with the protagonist of Stone's first book, Dear Martin. Justyce McAllister is now not only Jared's close friend, but his roommate as well, even though in that first book, the word 'enemies' would not have sufficed to describe how they felt about each other. In this book, Justyce is someone Jared trusts, almost looks up to, and serves as a grounding force while he works through everything that is happening, including the campaign. Like Justyce, Jared is confronted with racial injustice and inequities, while also having to look honestly at his own privilege, and what he is willing to do about it, and with it.

My Verdict: Confession: I am, in general, not a person who looks for or enjoys confrontation. Facing and examining hard truths? Fine. Arguing about them with someone else? No, thank you. With that said, that mental exercise of readers putting themselves in the book and wondering how they would do? Pretty sure I would wither away in this one. If readers thought Stone 'went there' with Dear Martin, then for me, this book does something else entirely. But the things is, as uncomfortable as I often was, I am still glad I read it, and still looked forward to being able to read it until I finished. And, I am looking for reasons to gift it to those close to me. Yes, the book is challenging, but not in an obnoxious or heavy-handed way. It is simply honest, and having the focus be on Jared is a bold and brilliant move.

Favorite Moment: Witnessing the debate between the three candidates was both painful and fun. I will still avoid having to watch one between real political candidates, but the one in this book is worth suffering through. 

Favorite Character: Justyce is not present in this book a whole lot, but when he is, it is during moments when Jared either needs a reality check, or simply someone to talk to. It is nice to see these two become close, real friends after everything that has happened.

Recommended Reading: For some reason, my mind goes to James by Percival Everett as a good follow-up. It is not even remotely YA, but it is a great story, and deserving of all of the attention is has received. 

Young Adult Fiction: All Better Now by Neal Shusterman

What I love about Neal Shusterman's books is that they attempt to answer a seemingly impossible question, or maybe even a question we hope to never have to answer. His Arc of the Scythe series falls into the former category, as it asks what would life on earth be like if humans could live forever. His novel Dry falls into the latter category, as it asks what would happen if the state of California ran out of water. For his most recent book, All Better Now, and the third novel for this year's DSN YA Fest, Shusterman asks what would happen if another pandemic were to take place in the near future, only this time, the survivors of the disease experience utter contentment. Would people risk the odds of being one of the 4% of the population that is guaranteed to die from it for a chance at true happiness? And would the world fall apart as a result? 

The Situation: The name they have chosen this time is Crown Royale. That is the name of the virus that is known to kill at least one out of every 25 people who contracts it. But here is the thing: The other 24 people, the ones who survive, have the long-term effect of being utterly content with their lives. Billionaires who only served their own interests before are now giving up their fortunes and disappearing to live their lives in peace and with generosity. Both small and large communes and collectives are popping up everywhere to take in anyone who needs help, whether sick or healthy, recoveree or uninfected. While there is a race to develop a vaccine, most recoverees are ready to argue against the need for one, seeing the virus as more of a savior than a scourge. And this divide is the beginning of a much larger war.

The Problem: Mariel is used to a life on the streets, with only her mother to trust, but when they unknowingly check into an Airbnb that is managed by Rón Escobedo, the son of one of the world's richest men, the two teens are started on a path that will put them at the center of the fight. There are those who wish to spread the virus as far and as fast as they can, and those who will do whatever it takes to stop it, no matter how questionable. Those with the most to lose from a virus that can eliminate jealousy and greed will live and act out of fear, claiming to help humanity while possibly dooming it as well. Families will be split, friendships will be tested. But both sides believe they are right. And both sides insist they are saving the world. 

Genre, Themes, History: This is a work of young adult fiction set in different locations all over North America and other parts of the world. At the center of the story are Mariel, a tough young woman who has been living on the streets with her mother for quite some time; Rón, the youngest son of a very rich man for whom contracting the virus may mean a slightly higher risk of death; and Morgan, a smart and shrewd young woman who has been chosen to help find a vaccine, even though her benefactor has had a change of heart. This novel brings up many of the questions and arguments that were brought forward during the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic, only this time the recoverees experience a happiness and joy that some are eager to embrace and willing to risk death for, while others find the need to shut it down as soon as possible. Greed, fear, ambition, joy, and even pity (on both sides, for the opposing side) are all there.

My Verdict: When Shusterman asks an impossible question like this, he carries it out through all of the difficult moments and takes the reader along for the ride, showing his work along the way. Every characters' motivations are clear, and both the villains and the heroes of this book (if there truly are any) remain three-dimensional. Even those who recover from Crown Royale, who no longer feel anger or resentment or the need for revenge, are not immediately good (or even better) people. They are simply different, with new goals and reasons for what they do. My only real gripe is with the ending, which does make sense considering the impossible question Shusterman is trying to answer. But with a book that is already over 500 pages, a few more chapters would have been nice, if only for clarity.

Favorite Moment: There is a moment when the selfish and almost monomaniacal Morgan is face to face with her worst fear, and is shown that she is not as secure behind her money and masks as she thought.

Favorite Character: Dame Havilland is a recoveree who was once a very rich and spiteful old woman. She will spend the entire book attempting to fix one of her biggest mistakes, and is as delightful in her new life as she was hateful and vengeful in her old one. 

Recommended Reading: I recommend Dry, also by Shusterman, and for me, it is his most terrifying book thus far. 

Young Adult Fiction: Needy Little Things by Channelle Desamours

For the second week of YA Fest, I picked up Channelle Desamours' Needy Little Things. A young girl with the ability to hear the needs of others races against time when a close friend goes missing. But when her ability to hear people's needs refuses to go quiet, and others learn about what she can do, it becomes difficult to stay focused and follow the clues, especially as time seems to be running out.

The Situation: Seventeen year-old Sariyah Bryant's most useful possession might be her noise-canceling headphones. They may not provide complete protection against the needs of those in close proximity to her, but they do offer some relief. Sariyah has the ability to quite literally hear the needs of others around her. Usually it is small things like a hair tie, lip balm, marker, or nail file, and sometimes the need allows the receiver to do something silly, or even wasteful. The only needs Sariyah cannot hear are those of the people closest to her, which is both a relief, and infuriating. And when her friend, Deja, goes missing, what Sariyah needs is to be able to put all the clues together and find her, soon.

The Problem: Deja's disappearance mirrors two previous cases of a young girl going missing in her town. And while Sariyah wants to remain hopeful, those other cases did not end in the young girls being found alive. With other people's needs continuing to intrude, Sariyah and her friends Malcolm and Jude are not only doing what they can to keep Deja's disappearance at the front of everyone's minds via social media, but they are trying to figure out what exactly happened to her. Could she have run away? Who would want to hurt her? What was her life like at home? And then Sariyah does the thing she was always warned against, which is use her ability to make some quick cash, therefore drawing attention, and potentially making herself the next target.

Genre, Themes, History: This is a young adult fiction novel set in and around modern-day Atlanta. Told exclusively through Sariyah's point of view, the book touches on several topics, such as depression, grief, guilt, caring for a sick sibling, and of course, the disappearance of young girls. Years earlier, Sariyah's friend, and Malcom's twin sister, Tessa, went missing, and the two of them cannot help but see similarities between that situation and this one. Malcolm is particularly focused on keeping awareness on Deja's disappearance, while acknowledging how difficult that may be since she is a minority. And then there is Sariyah's ability to know what those around her need. Unfulfilled needs have her playing the 'what if' game, but sometimes, what she gives people leads to a chain of events that has her questioning if 'need' is the right word.

My Verdict: This is a fast-paced and interesting story that does not take long to get into the action, while also taking the time to introduce characters, describe the settings, and build out the world and the relationships. Before Deja's disappearance, it is clear that Sariyah already struggles with her ability, and that there is some history when it comes to missing girls. After the disappearance, the urgent need for action can be felt coming off of the page, along with the sense that not everything is as it appears, and many people (most of them, actually) are not telling everything they know. The grand reveal of what exactly happened seems a little bit confusing and convoluted, while still managing to be tense and troubling.

Favorite Moment: At one point, Sariyah has to get someone away from her, quickly, and she manages to do it by essentially out-crazying them.

Favorite Character: Josiah is Deja's little brother, and while he lives with sickle-cell anemia, he is bright and funny and clever and full of energy, and also incredibly perceptive.

Recommended Reading: I recommend Monday's Not Coming by Tiffany D. Jackson, another YA thriller concerning a missing young girl.