Isabel Iba�ez
[isbn]
Think about the history of bullfighting — then imagine that, but with dragons and magic and a fierce female heroine who believes there's a better way. Add a hint of romance and betrayal, and you've got yourself a fantastic summer read!
Recommended by Beth C
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Adalyn Grace
[isbn]
A princess, a pirate, a fiance, and a mermaid — almost sounds like a "walk into a bar" joke, doesn't it? Instead, we have an AMAZING story, with some of the best world- and character-building I've had the pleasure of experiencing. There is no cliffhanger here, but you'll be thankful that another book is coming so you can spend more time absorbed within this world.
Recommended by Beth C.
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Kim Liggett
[isbn]
This book is akin to Lord of the Flies — but with more nuance and, ultimately, hope. It explores not only societal pressures and how damaging they can be, but also the damage females do to EACH OTHER — even when we have common cause and the same enemy. Societal pressures, faceless enemies, and patriarchy explode in this book, with an outcome that may surprise.
Recommended by Beth C.
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Ronan Farrow
[isbn]
Absolutely riveting! Reads like fiction, up until you get to yet another name that you have already heard of. Complete insanity to think about the lengths some will go to be able to fulfill their horrifying predilections without fear of consequence. Having said that, there are some touches of humanity within that keep it from feeling completely overwhelming. I had a hard time putting it down — it's just THAT good.
Recommended by Beth C.
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Barbara Natterson Horowitz, Kathryn Bowers
[isbn]
Safety. Status. Sex. Self-Reliance. Wildhood argues that mastering these four things are the markers of maturity. Using four different species (penguin, hyena, blue whale, and wolf), in addition to humans, the authors demonstrate how adolescent behaviors pertaining to these four competencies are universal, and have been in existence from the beginning. A fascinating, easily readable book, Wildhood is a MUST-READ for teachers,... (read more)
Recommended by Beth C.
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Samira Ahmed
[isbn]
Sometimes, most times, a revolution doesn't start big. It starts small. With one person, refusing to accept the status quo any longer. Internment shows us not only what a near future could look like with a Muslim ban in force, but what resistance often entails. Fear. Quiet resignation. Frustration. Anger. DEFIANCE. And sometimes, it's those with their entire future to lose that will lead the way.
Recommended by Beth C.
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Emily Suvada
[isbn]
Picking up where This Mortal Coil left off, Cat has some answers — but far more questions than she did before. This book moves fast, and the ending (no spoilers) will leave you gasping and trying to figure out what just happened. This Mortal Coil was a Top 5 pick for me last year — and I liked This Cruel Design even better!
Recommended by Beth C.
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Jonathan French
[isbn]
I was more curious about this book than truly drawn in by the description before I started it, but once I did, I read through the day and cursed those real-life moments that intervened (like making dinner and going to the bathroom and stuff like that). The Grey Bastards is a fast-paced read, dark but full of adventure and camaraderie. I don’t know where the second book will take me, but I can guarantee I’ll be along for the ride. If only... (read more)
Recommended by Beth C.
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Madeleine Albright
[isbn]
Albright takes the reader on a journey through history, discussing some of the political leaders in different countries who have been, or who have skirted being, fascists. She explains how they developed their thinking, how they gained power, and what some of those consequences were. She very carefully does not discuss Trump — instead, like the excellent professor I'm guessing she is, she allows the reader to start putting the pieces... (read more)
Recommended by Beth C.
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Emily Suvada
[isbn]
A last-minute entry into my Top 5 list for 2017, this book is excellent. Boasting a virus that causes its host to literally explode in order to spread, apps that can be hacked to change a person's DNA, and a large corporation that wants control of those apps to ensure "purity" — even at the expense of those who live only by nonapproved apps — it's a fast-paced book with excellent character-building and a very plausible (and frightening) view of... (read more)
Recommended by Beth C.
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Mariah Marsden and Brenna Thummler and L. M. Montgomery
[isbn]
Anne of Green Gables was a favorite growing up — always spunky and somehow coming out on top despite her troubles. I was a little hesitant when I heard about the graphic novel, but it blew me away. The images are perfect and lovely and encompass the emotions of the books better than I expected. The graphic novel brings Anne to life in a whole new way. This would be a perfect addition for any prior fans, or a good way to introduce a new... (read more)
Recommended by Beth C.
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Malala Yousafzai
[isbn]
Malala Yousafzai became famous for being The Girl Who Lived when the Taliban shot her in the head for being outspoken. They tried to silence her, but instead they just amplified her voice. Now she has published this beautiful picture book, sharing her childhood wish for a magic pencil — and how that wish became the "magic pencil" she wields today to try and help create a better world. This is definitely an excellent addition to any bookshelf, and... (read more)
Recommended by Beth C.
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