Terry Pratchett
[isbn]
When a devastating tsunami leaves behind only two survivors, they must survive sharks, starvation, mutineers, and cannibals to rebuild the Nation. Beautifully written and filled with both action and philosophy, this coming-of-age story explores the intersection of society with history, religion, science, and sacrifice. Terry Pratchett's stand-alone novel is my all-time favorite book — I've lost track of how many times I've reread it.
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Quvenzhane Wallis, Vanessa Brantley Newton
[isbn]
Quvenzhané Wallis made history at the age of 6 when she became the youngest Best Actress nominee in history for her performance in Beasts of the Southern Wild. In this colorful and charming picture book, she recounts her evening attending the Academy Awards with her mother as only a 6-year-old can: "tap-tap-tapping" through her house in sparkly new shoes, singing along to the radio in the back of a "fancy car," sitting through a... (read more)
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Jen Wang
[isbn]
This book is the very definition of charming. Soft colors and curved lines bring vibrant and bold characters to life in this tale of friendship, family, self-love, and, of course, absolutely stunning dresses.
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Jomny Sun
[isbn]
Sweet and uplifting, everyone's a aliebn when ur a aliebn too follows a lone alien as he learns about friendship, art, death, change, and bouncy castles. The simple art and childish misspellings carry a message of self-acceptance and embracing change. This wholesome book is the perfect antidote to these toxic times.
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Tara Sullivan
[isbn]
Do you know where your chocolate comes from? Amadou is a slave in today's Ivory Coast, where his sole concern is for the safety of his younger brother, Seydou. But when the fiery Khadija is brought to the plantation, she stirs Amadou into action, and the three children embark on a heart-stopping, tear-jerking break for freedom. This gripping novel sheds light on the dark secrets of our favorite treat.
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Katie O'Neill
[isbn]
Princess Princess Ever After is too good for this world. Princess Sadie is locked in a tower by her jealous, spiteful sister. Who will come to her rescue? None other than Princess Amira, who is out seeking adventure. This short, simple story packs a lot of heart — complete with a Happily Ever After to rival any Disney movie!
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Michael Dante DiMartino
[isbn]
From the co-creator of the beloved and critically-acclaimed animated series, Avatar: The Last Airbender, comes a debut novel with the same originality and epic scope. Taking place in a world where art is magic and creative "genius" manifests as birdlike familiars, Rebel Genius follows the orphaned Giacomo, who must learn to master his newly discovered power before a villainous plot puts the whole world at risk. As much about art... (read more)
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Kelly Barnhill
[isbn]
What starts as a sweet, beautiful fairy tale turns into a complex, emotional, coming-of-age story of love and loss. Taken from her mother as a baby and left in the forest as a sacrifice, Luna grows up with a different family: the witch who raised her; an ancient swamp monster; and a tiny dragon who thinks he's giant. As she begins to realize her own magical powers, she finds herself drawn into the mystery of a nearby village that is plagued by a... (read more)
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Angie Thomas
[isbn]
It's rare I'm able to get through an entire novel in just one day, but The Hate U Give is a book that's impossible to put down. Inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, The Hate U Give follows Starr Carter after she witnesses a childhood friend shot to death by a police officer. As Starr navigates the fallout in both her all-black neighborhood and her mostly white high school, author Angie Thomas brings a deep, nuanced look... (read more)
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Emma Donoghue, Caroline Hadilaksono
[isbn]
The Lotterys are nothing like a traditional family — two dads, two moms, and seven kids, all living in a large Victorian home in Toronto. Named for the winning ticket that changed their fortune, this diverse family spends their days visiting museums, exploring the woods behind their home, playing with friends, and studying ancient Mesopotamia. However, after an estranged grandfather moves in, their delicate balance is thrown off, and no one takes... (read more)
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Renée Ahdieh
[isbn]
A retelling of One Thousand and One Nights that blends mystery, fantasy, intrigue, and romance! This timeless tale is updated in a thrilling novel with captivating characters, unique settings, and an electrifying plot! Shahrzad is a clever heroine who uses her wits and charm to stall her execution day by day while she works to unravel the secrets Khalid, the mysterious Caliph, is hiding. This book hits every note just right and leaves... (read more)
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Sarah Andersen
[isbn]
Sometimes I'd swear Sarah Andersen knew me personally. Her adorable cartoons are almost eerily accurate to the lives of every millennial I know. This book has been the perfect gift for all of my friends and family, and it's the perfect gift for any new adult in your life as well (even if you are that new adult).
Recommended by Carrie L.
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Neal Shusterman
[isbn]
Tired of the same old dystopian YA literature? Then this may be the perfect book for you!
Rather than resorting to the usual trappings of oppressive governments and desolate wastelands, Neal Shusterman presents a future where disease, war, old age, and even death have been eliminated. The only uncertainty in life comes from the Scythes — the organization of a select few who are sanctioned to kill for population control. When two teens are taken... (read more)
Recommended by Carrie L.
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