Reviewed by Michelle, a high school student

Ain’t it Funny provides a story of family issues, awkward moments, and how life’s difficulties affect mental health. It follows a young girl named Maya whose parents have recently split in pursuit of business and dreams. She also struggles with OCD and intrusive thoughts, a problem amplified by the issues in her family. She aims to perform at her school’s talent show in order to bring together her family. Overall, this novel is an excellent read for teenagers who are also struggling with familial issues or mental health.

Reviewed by Michelle, a high school student

Across So Many Seas presents several unique perspectives on immigration, belonging, and familial difficulties. The novel has been split into four separate stories, within several diverse time periods, all detailing Jewish journeys through persecution, violence, and treks. The vast difference in years between the stories provides a position on the issues the girls face and their relevance to the world today. Overall, the book is an excellent read for people researching changes in Jewish culture today, or readers looking for a riveting story of travel and self-discovery.

Reviewed by Michelle, a high school student

The trend of survival stories has been continued in Caroline Starr Rose’s novel, The Burning Season. A young girl named Opal lives on a mountain far away from society, where she longs to attend a regular middle school away from the wilderness. She had been training as a fire lookout, a job for which she must alert people of a possible forest fire. As someone who is afraid of fire, she questions whether the job is for her. When an emergency fire takes place when she is left alone, she must be brave and work fast under pressure. The novel is an excellent story of survival, belonging, and tenacity, and a fantastic read for readers interested in firefighting or who have enjoyed literary classics such as Lord of the Flies.

Reviewed by Michelle, a high school student

The novel takes place in a moment of distress for the main character, Addy, whose town has just been hit by a difficult storm. Although the story is not a difficult one to understand, the concepts of grief, trauma, and moments of need are significant parts of the story. The concepts are presented with a digestible tale of a young girl trying to carry on her parents’ legacy by making her way through the storm and to a survival camp. Through this journey, however, she discovers tools of strength in character, friendship, and courage. Overall, the book is an excellent read for readers who may relate to the trials presented to Addy, both mentally and physically.

Reviewed by Michelle, a high school student

The novel follows a young girl and her exciting journey towards stardom. It is also a nostalgic read, as it takes place before the 2000s, and in an era of rock, pop, and guitar music. The book will be particularly enjoyable for incoming middle school readers, who will be able to relate to the main character’s values, conflicts, exciting times, and big dreams. Cat Patrick’s story is motivational, drama-filled, and a thrilling read for middle-level readers or people who have enjoyed novels such as Out of My Mind or Every Last Word.

Reviewed by Michelle, a high school student

This book is an extraordinary read for people hoping to expand on their knowledge of Mexican culture. Rooster and the Dancing Diablo, the second book in a series, follows a town where children have mysteriously gone missing. A young man named Rooster goes on a magical adventure with friends in order to save the town. It also includes Mexican folklore, and is an engaging way to learn about different cultures. Diana Lopez has written a story that is inspirational, depicts the ups and downs of friendships, and is overall a fantastic story for people of all ages.