Black Panther: World of Wakanda

This graphic novel is an excellent addition to the Black Panther story. It provides context for many of the moving parts in the Black Panther plot. And Roxane Gay is a talented writer in any medium!
Recommended by Junix S

The Left Hand of Darkness

Oftentimes when engaging with science fiction, I find myself wondering, Why do these aliens have the exact same gender construction as humans? That seems highly unlikely. Thankfully, there's this book which removes itself thoroughly from that trope. Through dense and unique world-building of an alien planet, Le Guin tells us truths about our own world. This book is worth the read purely for the intensity in which the alien culture is... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Living a Feminist Life

This text describes fascinating concepts like "the feminist killjoy," and is a great resource for any feminists fighting the good fight. There are later chapters that focus on self-care, and how to balance activism with burnout. These ideas are reminiscent of much of bell hooks's writing, but there are also plenty of personal connections and new ideas to keep the reading engaging.  
Recommended by Junix S

The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue

I picked up this book on a whim, but then it sucked me in! I did not expect to get so invested in these characters, but this book was a total sucker punch. Under the fun 18th-century romp and pirates, this book deals with some real world themes such as abuse, disability, and racism. But the mood of the book was never too heavy or overbearing. This is one of the best YA books I've ever read, and I am emotional about it. 
Recommended by Junix S.

The Witch Boy: A Graphic Novel (the Witch Boy Trilogy #1)

This sweet story, which features uncommon and likable supporting characters, revolves around the themes of family, history, gender roles, and of course, magic. A great middle grade book for boys who might be feeling like they don't quite fit in, or any young reader with an interest in modern fantasy!
Recommended by Junix S.

Teen Dog Volume 1

The art of this comic is wacky, vivid, and engaging. The humor is snarky, punchy, and sometimes sweet. Pick up this comic if you like over-the-top plotlines, or if you eat pizza at least once a week. 
Recommended by Junix S

The Tea Dragon Society

This graphic novel is short, but it easily earned a cherished spot on my bookshelf. It's sweet, the art is soft, special, and adorable. This story will warm your heart just like your favorite cup of tea. Really though, you should just read everything by this author. All of her books are inspiring and creative.
Recommended by Junix S

She & Her Cat

A sad yet somehow refreshing story for all the struggling young adults out there. Which is to say, pretty much every single young adult. This manga feels like spring rain.
Recommended by Junix S

The Left Hand of Darkness

Although the language in this book can be dense, it is only a reflection of how thoroughly Le Guin has crafted this alien world and its culture. I believe this is one of the best science fiction books out there, because like all of the best stories in the genre, it gives us new ways of viewing our own world. 
Recommended by Junix S

The Girl from the Other Side: Siuil, a Run 1

The art in this manga feels as if it is pulling you deeper into the dark forest where this story takes place. As you try to discern shapes in the shadowy landscape, you can't help but fall in love with the characters of this world. This manga has all the charm of a fairy tale, but with eerie undertones that had me holding my breath as I flipped each page. 
Recommended by Junix S

Octavias Brood Science Fiction Stories from Social Justice Movements

This is exactly the kind of fiction I need in this wild time. I recommend this for readers who feel like their imaginations are stagnating, or who want to be reminded that our future is unknown, and thus full of possibility. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Zodiac Starforce

Do you like magical girls? Adorable art? A diverse cast? Getting too invested in your weekly horoscope? If you answered yes to any of those questions, you need to check out this graphic novel! A great pick for middle or high school readers. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Cursed Pirate Girl

The art in this graphic novel is stunning, with meticulous attention to detail. This story is also interesting for both kids and teens. Cursed Pirate Girl keeps her cool against scoundrels and laughs in the face of danger! Nothing will stop her from completing her quest! 
Recommended by Junix S.

At the Bottom of the River

If you've read Kincaid's short story, "Girl," I recommend exposing yourself to even more of her work. If you haven't read "Girl," then please pick up this book so you can read it! This writing is some of the most lyrical I've ever come across, and I almost feel as if Kincaid is inventing a genre of her own with her unique style. 
Recommended by Junix S.

My Brothers Husband Volume 01

This book is soft and tender, yet doesn't shy away from content that is hard to chew on or questions that have no easy answers. I can't wait for Volume 2!
Recommended by Junix S.

Everything, Everything

This quick read features a unique plot and a main character that readers will love. The book's multiple storytelling formats are another fun feature!
Recommended by Junix S.

Coraline

Reasons to read Coraline: It's spooky, it has a fantastic fictional cat, and Coraline is clever, brave, and snarky.

Reasons to love Coraline: All of the above.

Dryland

Reading this story feels like floating. Plus, it's set in Portland in 1992, and sure to make you feel nostalgic about your youth.
Recommended by Junix S.

The Hour of Daydreams

This story is so unique, I wouldn't hesitate to label it as magical realism or urban fantasy; however, the themes are so grounded in the writing that it holds its own with the best literary authors. In short, Rutledge makes even the mundane intriguing, and this book is rich with vivid settings, tastes, smells and temperatures. This book fills me with so much Pinoy pride!
Recommended by Junix S.

Dont Let Me Be Lonely

To convince you that you need this book in your life, I will share one of my favorite excerpts from it, which is: "the sadness lives in the recognition that a life can not matter. Or, as there are billions of lives, my sadness is alive alongside the recognition that billions of lives never mattered. I write this without breaking my heart, without bursting into anything."
Recommended by Junix S.

Binti (Binti #1)

I devoured this book in a single sitting. Now, it's a novella, so that's not terribly impressive, but even if the book had been hundreds of pages long, I would still have put everything on hold to keep reading it. Binti deserves immense praise for crafting more fascinating and in-depth culture in a short work than other sci-fi books create in an entire series. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Uprooted

I found myself reading Uprooted while walking down the sidewalk, on every lunch break, and on the bus. The magic in this story makes it feel as though you could cast the spells yourself!
Recommended by Junix S.

The Awakening: Monstress Vol. 1

The plot of Monstress is thick, and the art is breathtaking. The intricate details of the art style reflect the dark depths of the plot. Throughout my entire reading I felt as if there were secrets just below the surface. I can't wait for further volumes to reveal even more of this world. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Secret Garden

Discovering the secret rooms and hidden passages with Mary is an endeavor that is easy to get swept away in. This story is empowering in that it makes you believe that maybe with just a touch of magic, fresh air, and dedicated friends, anything is possible. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Witchs Boy

This book can get a little gruesome, so it's best for a mature middle reader, but it is full of magic. It features a wolf, bandits, and unlikely friendships. The spells felt like they could jump off the page. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Trans Liberation Beyond Pink or Blue

Leslie Feinberg is phenomenal because her writings remain extremely relevant to this day, which I find especially impressive because the field of gender studies evolves so quickly. Oftentimes I pick up a gender studies book and just from the vocabulary can tell it's dated, but that never happened to me while reading this book. The concepts Feinberg presents are before their time. If you liked Stone Butch Blues, I promise you'll like... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Princess Princess Ever After

Princess Princess Ever After is the cutest book I have ever read. It's so heartwarming and sweet and empowering I got teary-eyed reading it. It has adorable art, dragons, diverse representation, and everything I ever wanted condensed into one precious graphic novel.
Recommended by Junix S.

Some Kind of Happiness

I devoured this book in a few days; I just couldn't put it down. Finley, the main character, has what older readers will recognize as anxiety and depression, but being young, she doesn't have the vocabulary to know this. Despite that, the book has just enough fantasy/adventure elements to keep it from being an overly heavy or sad book. There are even some bits of mystery in it! Finley's experience is written with empathy and accuracy, and as well... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Mythology Timeless Tales of Gods & Heroes

I treasured and read my first copy of Edith Hamilton's Mythology so much that the cover fell off. Mythology is inherently fascinating but the way Edith Hamilton writes gives the stories new majesty. Her style is enchanting, but there are also notes and lots of historical context to keep the myths relevant, and when reading it is obvious she put in lots of research hours comparing different versions of the myths. As a side note, this is... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Inside Out & Back Again

Some lush images from this book are: seeds like shiny fish eyes, eyebrows expressing like laundry wrung tight, wartime in Saigon vs. peacetime in Alabama, and much more. Thanhha Lai has not only written a relevant and important book, but she has written one that is a joy to read because of its surprising metaphors and lively characters.  
Recommended by Junix S.

Lumberjanes Vol. 1: Beware the Kitten Holy

This graphic novel takes the usual summer camp story and adds extra fun with supernatural creatures! It's all the familiar friendship-building story arcs young readers have grown to love, but this time there's also Goonies-esque mystery solving. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Howls Moving Castle 03 House Of Many Ways

While the beloved Howl and Sophie aren't the main characters of this tale, their cameos in this story are adorable and hilarious. The main character of this book is also lovable, and it is fun to watch her grow. I believe she is a character who young girls will grow to admire, and if you liked Howl's Moving Castle, it is absolutely worth it to pick up this sequel. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Black Panther: A Nation Under Our Feet, Book 1

This story is one of a unique hero: Black Panther's struggles are personal yet affect an entire nation. He is a king as well as a superhero, and in the hands of Ta-Nehisi Coates, readers will be able to engage in a rich history balanced with the action comic books fans love. My favorite part of this first volume were the warrior women who go rogue to help civilians in need. Each character of this tale seems to be bursting with love, but the ways... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Anne Frank's Tales from the Secret Annex: A Collection of Her Short Stories, Fables, and Lesser-Known Writings, Revised Edition

When I read this I was stunned by how much knowledge and wisdom could exist within such a young girl. If you've only ever read Anne Frank's diary, I plead for you to read this collection of her fiction. Even at its roughest and in some cases unfinished, it shows the complex inner world of Anne Frank, and that world is worth knowing and cherishing.
Recommended by Junix S.

ODY C Volume 01

This visually captivating graphic novel is a bizarre, unique, and wild retelling of the classic Odyssey, but this time the gods and warriors are women and the setting is space. The interpretations and designs of the characters are fresh and the inner lives of the women are tumultuous and complex in ways that kept me engaged with every panel. Matt Fraction has proven himself as a skilled writer yet again. 
Recommended by Junix S.

My Dirty Dumb Eyes

If you like hilarity, the bizarre, or the obscene, be prepared for a whopping dose of all three when you crack open this book. The illustrated movie reviews were my favorite parts.
Recommended by Junix S.

Dogs Life The Autobiography Of A Stray

This was the first book I read when I was a kid that was bittersweet, and the story has stuck with me my whole life. This book is great for kids who love animal narrators.
Recommended by Junix S.

Seconds

This graphic novel broke my heart with how relatable it was. The main character discovers a way to erase her mistakes, and while I'd like to think I would have been smarter in her situation, I had the distinct feeling I would have acted exactly the same way. The adorable art style balances well with the more anxiety-inducing plot points, and O'Malley's trademark humor makes the comic easier to digest as well. Almost as easy to digest as magic... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Saga: Volume 1

Saga is so good that I mark on my calendar when the next trade issue is coming out: I have a countdown. I love all of Brian K. Vaughan's writing, but I'd say Saga is his best. Paired with the stunning art of Fiona Staples, this is a must-read not only for graphic novel fans but for anyone who likes to read. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Unslut: A Diary and a Memoir

This book contains unaltered excerpts from the author's diary she kept when she was 11 years old, alongside intelligent commentary from her perspective now. This is both academic and personal and everything I wish I could tell my younger self. Side fun fact: Lindin is a Harvard graduate! 
Recommended by Junix S.

One Crazy Summer

This book does an excellent job conveying both the complexities of childhood and the intricacies of a social movement. I found myself inhaling this book because I was captivated by the personalities and struggles of the main characters. Their story was enhanced beautifully by the backdrop of the Black Panthers and a California summer. 
Recommended by Junix S.

The Argonauts

I hadn't read any of Maggie Nelson's other work before this, so I was unfamiliar with the stream of consciousness style of writing. Once I got into the book, however, I found the notes in the margin helpful guides, and I quickly passed this book along once I was finished with it. This book speaks to so many core human experiences, like childbirth, parenthood, queerness, and just being alive, that I was deeply and unexpectedly moved. 
Recommended by Junix S.

The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

This poignant and humorous story prompted me to finish this book in one sitting! If you've never read Sherman Alexie, this is a great place to start. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Night Circus

The prose in this book is rich with vivid imagery. Even if you aren't usually interested in plots forwarded by romance, this story is worth picking up. The interplay of the circus setting and the actual magic is enchanting. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Avatar The Last Airbender The Search Part 1

This series finally answers the burning question of what happened to Zuko's mother! For fans of the Avatar: The Last Airbender series, these comics are a wonderful addition to the show. And for those who haven't seen the show, don't worry: these mini stories can stand alone. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Daytripper

These siblings are a dream team of art and words. This story follows the many potential lives of one character, and each outcome is just as engaging as the last. Daytripper plays with family, life, and death in a way that makes you a bit frightened and a bit hopeful and very glad to be alive. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Six of Crows

A picture of this book should be in the dictionary under "page turner." This book also surprised me with how much it read like an adult fantasy novel; the world was developed and the heist plot carried the book well. I have to say, though, that my favorite part of the book were the characters; you won't forget this cast! I loved that some of them were people of color and that there was a developing queer romance as well. I can't wait to see how... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Wishful Drinking

I read this book before Carrie Fisher passed, and I read it in a week because the jokes just kept coming and coming until suddenly I'd be at the end of the chapter. The little Star Wars stories sprinkled throughout the book were hilarious. However, what shines brightest is Carrie Fisher's unique brand of humor. It's all the sarcasm I miss from her tweets that made me cackle, but with bonus personal anecdotes about flawed coping... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

This eye-opening read covers a complex story with hard science while remaining comprehensive. Between the pages you'll find topics such as body ownership, racism, and pharmaceutical companies, but most of all you'll find an engaging story. 
Recommended by Junix S.

In Real Life

First of all, the art of this graphic novel is STUNNING. Every single page is a watercolor masterpiece. The theme of economics in this story could easily make this intriguing and complex enough for teen readers, but won't be overwhelming for younger readers. And I say that as someone who only took one economics class and despised it. Yet I devoured and loved this book. If you like gaming, great girl characters, or girl gamers, this graphic novel... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Rest of Us Just Live Here

This book pokes fun at YA tropes in a humorous and intelligent way, but what made me grow fond of The Rest of Us Just Live Here was its realistic and tender depiction of mental illness, as well as the eloquent inclusion of LGBT+ characters. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Songs From Under the River: A Collection Of Early & New Work

This collection contains Mojgani's slam-winning poem "Shake the Dust," but the other poems in the collection hold just as much tenderness and punch as that famous poem. If you've heard or read Mojgani's work before, I can assure you this collection of early work will move you as much as what you've already seen. If you haven't been exposed to any of Mojgani's work before, oh my god, what are you doing? Look it up right this instant, buy the book,... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

ApocalyptiGirl An Aria for the End Times

This is a post-apocalyptic story unlike others, with a sympathetic protagonist and a cat sidekick named Jelly Beans! The way the panels are laid out gives dynamism and emotion to the story, and it somehow manages to be both charming and a little disturbing. I devoured this graphic novel in one day, and it's a story worth owning so you can return to it now and again. And seriously, Jelly Beans is one of the most wonderful fictional cats. 
Recommended by Junix S.

SuperMutant Magic Academy

This graphic novel is for anyone who finds quiet hilarity in existential crises and enjoys when skilled writers poke fun at genre tropes. I was delighted by how each new page of SuperMutant Magic Academy was as thrillingly funny as the previous. The reoccurring characters are equal parts sad, engaging, terrible, admirable, and so, so full of teen angst. But the fun kind, not the annoying kind. While there are small amounts of underage... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Steven Universe Original Graphic Novel: Too Cool for School

This is a great stand-alone comic both for fans of the Steven Universe cartoon and those who haven't watched the show yet. It was a joy for me to read a comic which features one of Steven Universe's most charming characters, Connie. The art is cute, the jokes are funny, and my heart was warmed. 
Recommended by Junix S.

The Princess and the Pony

Kate Beaton creates fantastic adult comics, and it turns out she also makes brilliant picture books. I don't have a little sibling or a child, but I bought The Princess and the Pony for a family friend's kid just because I want to share this book with as many people as possible. It's heartwarming, it'll make you laugh, and the main character's name is Princess Pinecone, which is the most adorable princess name I've ever heard. If you're... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Runaways Volume 1 Pride & Joy

One of my favorite parts of this series is how, through interactions with more popular Marvel heroes, Brian K. Vaughan crafts the story of how this ragtag group fits into the wider Marvel universe. Although, truthfully, since Runaways was written by Vaughan, it automatically made it to my must-read list. I found each character to have depth as well as a unique collection of powers (or non-powers). My other favorite part of the series is... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

No Normal

I feel that Kamala Khan (the new Ms. Marvel and main character of this series) can best be summed up in her quote, "Good is not a thing you are. It's a thing you do." Surprisingly, considering she's a fictional teenage girl, I look up to her quite a lot. I admire her determination and desire to simply do good for the people and city she cares about. There is a great amount of humor in this series, but there are also emotional moments that have... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Tale of Despereaux Being the Story of a Mouse a Princess Some Soup & a Spool of Thread

I like to recommend this title not only to young readers, but to teens or adults who are looking for light in the dark.
Recommended by Junix S.

Across Many Mountains A Tibetan Familys Epic Journey from Oppression to Freedom

The most intriguing part of this book is its coverage of three lifetimes: the author's, her mother's, and her grandmother's. Each one is given attention and told genuinely, even though they vary greatly from each other in perspective. There is a thread of family, tradition, and strength that keeps the narrative coherent, and this was a truly informative read. I feel that this book is a sort of "undiscovered gem" just waiting for the next reader... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Americanah

This is easily on my list of top five books I have ever read. It took me a long time to read Americanah, which usually annoys me, but it was a reading experience that I never wanted to end. As a side note, this edition is well designed and just feels good in your hands; it reminded me why I love holding a physical book so much. The cover is aesthetically pleasing and the story is written so well that I bought my mother a copy of the book... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Dear White People

If you didn't get a chance to see the movie, don't worry; this book has you covered. (As an aside, this book can stand alone. You don't need to have seen the movie to understand what the book is about, and if you have seen the movie, the book will still be interesting). Stuffed full of visually pleasing infographs, charts, and portraits, this book is not only informative but also fun to look at. I can't stress enough how effective the humor of... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Ouran High School Host Club Volume 1

I love the way Haruhi (the main character of this series) complains about the eccentricities of the filthy-rich students at Ouran High School. Relatable! What sets this series apart from other manga for me is the honest way Haruhi treats her own gender and apathetically rejects the way other characters try to restrict her to a binary. She is also casual about being in romantic situations with other girls, and she's a unique and wonderful... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Hawkeye Volume 1 My Life as a Weapon

First of all, David Aja is a genuine genius. If you ever want to be awed, read about his artistic process sometime. Secondly, this comic features Kate Bishop and that's enough to get me interested in any graphic novel (Kate Bishop is snarky and talented and flawed and wonderful). Thirdly, Pizza Dog (the dog Clint Barton, aka Hawkeye, accidentally adopts) is one of the best fictional dogs ever to be created. Pizza Dog brings me such joy. If I kept... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

The House on Mango Street

This book will be a jewel on your bookshelf. My favorite part about it is that each "chapter" is short but contains such full concepts in a tiny space. This is a book you can pick up and put down without any detriment to your reading experience. While reading this, I was impressed by Cisneros's ability to relay ideas and stories that get to the core of human experience, and by her personal poetic observations, within just a page or two. Some... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Steven Universe Volume 1

Words cannot express how much I love Steven Universe. This graphic novel is great for fans of Adventure Time. Rebecca Sugar is the creator of Steven Universe (making her the first woman to be a sole creator of a show on Cartoon Network!), and she previously wrote songs and did other work on Adventure Time. Steven Universe is the perfect mix of hilarious and heartwarming. Between its pages are lessons... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Sign of Four

The Sign of Four is my favorite of all the Sherlock Holmes stories, and to convince you of why I will leave you with this quote: "So we stood hand in hand, like two children, and there was peace in our hearts for all the dark things that surrounded us."
Recommended by Junix S.

The Residue Years

For someone who grew up in Portland, this book was neat because I could recognize specific places that are mentioned. What is truly intriguing about The Residue Years, however, is the balance it keeps throughout the entire story of absolute despair and blossoming hope. Somehow this book managed to make me feel both that all the events were destined to be doomed from the start, and that at any moment everything could change for the... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Asunder Dragon Age

I don't know about anyone else, but I have 100+ hours logged on Dragon Age: Origins alone and I still can't get enough of this universe. I particularly enjoyed Asunder because of the background it gives on the character Cole. I loved learning more in-depth details about Cole's time with Rhys and how it shaped him. It turns out Cole started off as a very different person than what we get to see in Inquisition, but this story still makes... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

The Book of Unknown Americans

When I picked this book up, I didn't expect it to be so bittersweet. However, the story is worth the emotional turmoil it might cause you. Despite everything that happens, the book still left me with a sense of hope and tenderness at its conclusion.
Recommended by Junix S.

Ex Heroes

At first glance, this book seemed like a mash-up of the most popular tropes of the day. However, when I read it, I found that the heroes of the story had interesting powers and the unique characters carried the story with their distinct personalities. I recommend this title to those interested in horror or sci-fi or superheroes because the setting and plot have interesting pieces from all of those genres.
Recommended by Junix S.

Princess Jellyfish: #1

I cannot stress enough what a hidden gem this manga is. I've met few people who know of it, but everyone I've met who did know of it loved it! Equal parts hilarious and heartwarming, this is the story of Kuranosuke, a beautiful boy princess and his friendship with a house full of hopeless nerds. Tsukimi, the main character, is one of those nerds who struggle against realizing their own beauty and talent. My favorite part of the series is that... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Catwings: Catwings 1

This gem of a book (and series) made a nest in my heart when I was a very small kid and has lived there ever since. For the longest time I didn't even know Le Guin was famous for her fantasy and science fiction; I just knew her as the author of Catwings! I am amazed that these short, tiny books hold so much wonder and imagination, but they are full to bursting with both of those things. Light and fun, I love to recommend these to kids... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Men Explain Things to Me

Because of the variety in this collection, I'd recommend this book both to people who are passingly curious about women's studies/feminism as well as those who already know their way around the basics. The very first essay hooked me right away with its sharp humor. It's also a pleasure to watch Solnit cover power and gender in these essays because she has written so many other books on a huge variety of topics that her experience as a writer and... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Faith Volume 1 Hollywood & Vine

She's beauty, she's grace, she'll punch you in the face. Except Faith probably won't actually need to punch you in the face because she's a "psiot" which means that not only can she fly but she has some other neat tricks as well. The dream-sequence art in this comic is beautiful, and I was excited to read about faith because she's geeky and just trying her best to do the right thing. Faith is the compassionate hero I didn't even know I needed,... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

The Girl Who Drank the Moon

The characters of this story are believable, charming, and written with depth while the magic is an excellent blend of myth and ritual. Children's books have this ability to show morals and complicated life lessons with simplicity and integrity, and this book certainly does that. There's growing up in this book, and death, but it's a gentle send-off, and I enjoy recommending this title to kids or adults who just love books about magic. 
Recommended by Junix S.

The Martian

This book is surprisingly funny, considering it's about terrible things happening to a man on Mars. It's all around fresh and well written, especially for a first-time author. 
Recommended by Junix S.

Hyperbole and a Half

This book made me never want to get a dog — because there are so many stories of the author's terrible (albeit hilarious) dogs. My favorite part of this comic are the parts where the author makes poignant observations about depression while still giving the reader a reason to chuckle. This book comforted and mortified me in equal measure, which takes great skill from an author. When you read this, prepare to laugh and feel a little better about... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

My Beloved World

My Beloved World is about so much more than law. It's about struggle and overcoming, and it is inspiring. I originally found this book through the Everybody Reads program, and it gave me a sense of community about the story. Sotomayor also writes with a humor that keeps the book from being heavy and instead keeps it interesting and invigorating throughout. 
Recommended by Junix S.

We Should All Be Feminists

This is a (slightly edited for book format) transcript of Adichie's TEDxTalk of the same name. We Should All Be Feminists is accessible and intersectional and is an excellent access point to feminism. I also found it a joy to read, however, as a person who knows my way around the basics of women's studies. A fun fact about the TEDxTalk: Beyoncé sampled a portion of it in her song "Flawless"!
Recommended by Junix S.

Interstellar Cinderella

This is the best version of Cinderella. Ever. Why? Because it's in space. And space is awesome. Also, this Cinderella is smart, a mechanic, and goal-oriented, and I want her to be my best friend.
Recommended by Junix S.

A Wizard of Earthsea: Earthsea 1

Earthsea is hands-down the best fantasy series I have ever read. Each individual book imparts a profound message without being heavy-handed. The characters are flawed and human, the system of magic is well-crafted, and putting these books on the shelf when you're done feels like saying goodbye to an old friend. 
Recommended by Junix S.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

This is my favorite book. It is one of those stories that transcends genre; even if you don't usually like literature, or realistic fiction, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is worth a read. I think everyone should read it because it will change you. I feel that I am a better person than I was before I read this book.
Recommended by Junix S.

Gregor the Overlander: Underland Chronicles #1

This is a great book for young boys, and also an excellent pick for young readers who enjoy series. My favorite part about this series is that it shows readers that there's more than one way to be a hero. Sure, there's a healthy amount of sword swinging (it is an action/adventure series, after all), but it also imparts that sometimes being a hero means changing your little sister's diaper. Plus, people ride on giant bats. Everything's a little... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Princess Academy 01

This was the first book that taught me girls can work together, and when they do, they can accomplish anything. I don't feel it is an exaggeration to say this book changed my life. Aside from its message (which I had never come across when I first read it as a kid), it also has just the right amount of princess fun — such as elegant dances and courtly etiquette. This book has a little something for any young reader, I think: a girl who has never... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Young Avengers Volume 1 Style Substance Marvel Now

There is an infinite list of reasons why I love Young Avengers. Humorous Lord of the Rings references. Canonical gay and bisexual characters. Kate Bishop is in it (seriously, what more do you need? She's phenomenal). Kid Loki's snark. Latina Captain America. Heartwarming use of the true-love-saves-the-day trope. Punching through the multiverse as a superpower (literally, punching it). Also, the main plot revolves around the son... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Batgirl Volume 1 The Batgirl of Burnside the New 52

This comic is perfect because older fans of Batgirl will recognize enough of her past story to feel satisfied, but new readers won't be lost. The art is distinct from many of The New 52 collections, and the color palette choices are so clever and beautiful I could cry little bat-shaped tears. Plus, Batgirl fights interesting and cool villains! Unique baddies have always been one of my favorite things about the Batman franchise, and I'm happy to... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Thief Lord

This is one of those books that has stuck with me throughout my life. When I read it as a kid, it inspired me to travel to Venice because that is where The Thief Lord takes place. I still hold onto that dream to this day. The essential story is that two orphaned brothers lose themselves in Venice and wind up living with a ragtag guild of likewise-orphaned thieves. The atmospheric magic of this story is just the right amount to complement... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

The Faust Act: The Wicked + The Divine 1

I'm a big fan of anything Kieron Gillen writes, and this is no exception. The art and character designs are fresh, which only complements the unique plot. No spoilers, but the basics are this: every few hundred years, gods will be reincarnated. They shine bright, humanity loves them, and then shortly they die. The characterization of gods, and their subsequent modification, fascinates me: Persephone, The Morrigan, and Amaterasu are just a few who... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

George

I have never cried over a book, but if I'm honest, this one was so sweet and uplifting that I got a little misty-eyed. The book is radiant, and it will make readers feel radiant, too. Not only is this book an important one, it's simply well-written. I'd recommend it to any middle reader age 8+ or to adults like me who like cute stories. As a side note, this book is very refreshing for the fact that it is a transgender author writing a transgender... (read more)
Recommended by Junix S.

Bad Feminist

This book is a well-crafted mix of humor and logic. The essays vary from personal topics to academic concepts. The overall reading experience is both fun and informative, and what struck me most was how the author illustrates how feminism doesn't have to be perfect to be beneficial. 
Recommended by Junix S.