Erin A Craig
[isbn]
Steeped in forgotten coastal lore and pages ruffled with a salt breeze off of a dark storming coast, The House of Salt and Sorrows is a brilliantly twisted version of the classic Twelve Dancing Princesses. Reminiscent of Poe's famous works like Annabel Lee and mixed with the somber, eerie tones of Wuthering Heights, Erin A. Craig writes with a fantastical whimsy that sweeps you into a world and leaves you haunted but... (read more)
Recommended by Taylor C.
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Courtney Gould
[isbn]
There’s something dark in Snakebite. In this supernatural thriller debut, Logan’s ghost-hunter dads drag her to their rural Oregon hometown just as a local teen disappears. As Logan starts to fall for Ashley, the missing boy’s girlfriend, she also circles closer to the terrible truth of why her family left in the first place.
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Kacen Callender
[isbn]
Finally! The book demigender folk have been waiting for!
Felix Love is a demiboy who is going through interpersonal turmoil at school, at home, and online.
While Felix's story touches on subjects such as being Black, queer, and trans, it also involves a love triangle, school bullies, and online drama.
I highly recommend this book for everyone, but especially demigender folks and trans young adults who have been waiting for a young adult fiction... (read more)
Recommended by Rin S.
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Richard Adams
[isbn]
My dad used to read to me and my brother almost every night before bed, and those nights are some of my favorite childhood memories. Many of the books we read together have stuck with me through the intervening years, but I have particularly fond memories of listening to him read Watership Down. 25 years later, I can still remember the feeling of being completely absorbed in the story. I was so enthralled that, when he had to go on a... (read more)
Recommended by Emily B.
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Rainbow Rowell
[isbn]
I am so, so excited for the conclusion to Rainbow Rowell’s Simon Snow trilogy! And I know that I’m going to be so, so satisfyingly sad when I finish it.
Recommended by Matt K.
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Elizabeth Lim
[isbn]
To save her brothers from her stepmother’s curse, Shiori must learn to control the magic inside of her and somehow find help without speaking a word. Pulling from European fairy tales and East Asian folklore alike, this kickoff to Elizabeth Lim’s new duology is a fantastic original fantasy not to be missed!
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Sandra Cisneros
[isbn]
In the introduction to the 25th Anniversary edition, Sandra Cisneros refers to the collection of vignettes that make up The House on Mango Street as “a jar of buttons.” Mismatched “little stories” that came together in the telling into one of literature's most enduring portraits of a neighborhood, a time, a coming-of-age. The House on Mango Street was my first brush with vignettes — how exciting to find that a novel could be... (read more)
Recommended by Sarah R.
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Richard Adams
[isbn]
My dad used to read to me and my brother almost every night before bed, and those nights are some of my favorite childhood memories. Many of the books we read together have stuck with me through the intervening years, but I have particularly fond memories of listening to him read Watership Down. 25 years later, I can still remember the feeling of being completely absorbed in the story. I was so enthralled that, when he had to go on a... (read more)
Recommended by Emily B.
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David Larochelle, Mike Wohnoutka
[isbn]
Right now, my 5-year-old is working on how and why we apologize. He doesn't always get it. I love that this book validates his feelings and fears but also emphasizes the importance of saying sorry. It also gives examples of how NOT to apologize and I think that's just as important. A difficult topic with simple explanations and cute illustrations. Honestly, I think some adults could benefit from reading this book as well.
Recommended by Rose H.
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Elise Bryant
[isbn]
I have been singing the praises of Happily Ever Afters for months, and I'm still just as excited to share my feelings about this book with you as I was in January. Happily Ever Afters is such a charming and refreshing story, one that I think of often and smile. When Tessa suddenly develops writer's block after transferring to a prestigious arts school, her best friend Caroline comes up with a brilliant idea: turning Tessa's life... (read more)
Recommended by Katherine M.
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Gayle Forman
[isbn]
Since his brother died and his mother left, the only book Aaron’s been able to read is about the extinction of the dinosaurs. Stuck working with his father at their floundering bookstore, it feels apropos. When a chance encounter grants him a new friend and his father a renewed vigor to save the store, he starts to wonder: Is that looming asteroid really inevitable?
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Bethany C. Morrow
[isbn]
Set partially in Portland, A Chorus Rises is Naema's story, a young Black woman with magical powers. She travels to the Southwest for a family reunion and to get away from the repercussions of being an influencer. A rich mix of fantasy and social justice.
Recommended by Mary Jo S.
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Maggie Stiefvater
[isbn]
Experiencing the unfolding of this second book in the Dreamer Trilogy is so rewarding, so compelling, that I'm reticent to provide anything that might count as a spoiler. I'll just say that as we follow Ronan's and Jordan's journeys to unravel the secrets of dreams and dreamers, we find ourselves in a gorgeous meditation on the power of art, and the tension between human advancement and the preservation of the (magical, miraculous) natural world.... (read more)
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Tyler Feder
[isbn]
Tall bodies, short bodies, fuzzy bodies, smooth bodies, Bodies Are Cool celebrates them all! Bright and jubilant illustrations paired with zippy text exemplify all the ways in which each and every body is beautiful, a message both kiddos and their grown-ups need to hear sometimes.
Recommended by Tina M
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Jason Reynolds, Ibram X Kendi, Sonja Cherry Paul
[isbn]
Stamped (for Kids) is a chapter book adapted from Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You. A powerful, eye-opening introduction to racism and its roots that will teach kids to talk and think about racism, Stamped (for Kids) is an accessible and engaging social history for the family.
Recommended by Tracey T.
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Victoria Aveyard
[isbn]
What happens when the chosen ones fail? In Aveyard’s sophomore series, the untrained, unknown, and unexpected will have to step up to save the world. Inspired by classic fantasy epics and switching between several compelling narrators, Red Queen fans and new readers alike will be enthralled by Realm Breaker.
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Emiko Jean
[isbn]
Tokyo Ever After has everything: long-lost royal family, palace secrets, forbidden romance, mouth-watering izakaya descriptions, an unbeatable girl gang, a fully realized cast of handmaidens and imperial guards, an incredibly satisfying search for a sense of belonging. Izumi is my new hero, and my only complaint is this perfect book wasn't around when I was a teen.
Recommended by Michelle C.
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Charlie Jane Anders
[isbn]
Tina's been waiting for years for the aliens (who left her on Earth as a baby) to deliver her to her destiny. But there's more to "destiny" than getting to leave the miseries of high school behind: entire species are counting on her to end an intergalactic war. Don't miss this beloved sci-fi author's YA debut!
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Michelle Ruiz Keil
[isbn]
I loved Summer in the City of Roses for the journey. The regular everyday was magic, and the magic was more magic. I don’t know if such things could happen in the Portland of today, but they surely happened in the Portland of then.
Recommended by Doug C.
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Tj Klune
[isbn]
I loved this book! While the adult characters, Linus and Arthur, are wonderful, it's the magical youth that really stand out. By the end, you'll be rooting for every one of them to reach their dreams. This book was an absolute delight.
Recommended by Bethany O.
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Jeff VanderMeer
[isbn]
Wow. Utterly weird, utterly captivating, dizzily creative, frothily exciting, spit-take funny. There's no way to describe this pastiche of hero's journey, magic, alternate history, and Napoleon's disembodied head — you simply must read it for yourself!
Recommended by Warren B.
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Lynette Noni
[isbn]
If you’re looking to lose yourself in a fantasy page-turner, this is your stop. Kiva Meridan is the healer for the infamous Zalindov prison; she’s also a prisoner herself, brought in when her father was accused of consorting with rebels. She’s kept herself alive for a decade by keeping her head down, avoiding attachments, and clinging to the few coded communications she’s been able to have with her family on the outside, who promise they’ll find... (read more)
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Angeline Boulley
[isbn]
Wow, this debut novel is so well crafted, I cannot recommend it enough! After Daunis loses her uncle, she is approached by an undercover agent to investigate a drug ring in her community. On top of the mystery, there is romance, exploration of family, community, and the Ojibwe culture.
Recommended by Jennifer H.
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Brittney Morris
[isbn]
Author Brittney Morris (Slay) describes this as “a Black-boy-joydespite” book, and that’s exactly how it reads. Alex can see the future of any person or object he touches, and he’s learned the hard way that doesn’t mean he can change things. When he sees that his little brother Isaiah is doomed to die soon, he decides to do everything he can to give Isaiah the best last days possible. Morris deftly bares the particular expectations,... (read more)
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Nicola Yoon
[isbn]
A new book from Nicola Yoon is a reason to celebrate! Her third novel brings the romance we expect with a touch of the supernatural. Evie is not interested in love after she starts having visions of how other people’s relationships end. But when she meets X at the dance studio she must decide if she is willing to take a chance. This one is at the top of my to-read pile.
Recommended by Jennifer H.
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Aiden Thomas
[isbn]
Following their powerhouse debut Cemetery Boys, Portland author Aidan Thomas turns their focus to the shadows of Neverland. Five years ago, Wendy and her brothers went missing in the woods of their hometown, Astoria. Only Wendy returned — with no memory of what happened during her months-long absence. Now, children are going missing again, and only Wendy’s lost memories — and the magical boy she could never quite forget — can save them.... (read more)
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi
[isbn]
This is an amazing book to add to your antiracist library. Written for young adults, this book is wonderfully comprehensive and perfect for a classroom setting. Empower young people with the knowledge of their history to forge an antiracist future.
Recommended by Rin S.
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Renée Watson
[isbn]
A summer romance and a young woman’s journey to self-acceptance; what’s not to love? Watson has created a beautiful, charming, and relatable main character in Nala. Through the ups and downs with family and her new boyfriend, I thoroughly enjoyed being immersed in her world.
Recommended by Jennifer H.
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Ariel Kusby and Olga Baumert
[isbn]
The Little Witch's Book of Spells is fun, meditative, and encouraging. A wonderful activity book for all ages and genders, it will inspire you to slow down, play, and find/create/appreciate various forms of magic in your surroundings.
A perfect grimoire for anyone interested in finding magic within and without.
Recommended by Anna A.
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Matt Ralphs, Nuria Tamarit
[isbn]
A comprehensive survey of witches across history, this YA nonfiction book explores real witches, fictional sorceresses, and magical women in folklore and myth. Its large format and cute illustrations make it appealing to a wide age range. This would make a great gift for any magically curious child!
Recommended by Ariel K.
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Kristin Cashore
[isbn]
Kristin Cashore returns to the realm of Graceling and Queen Bitterblue. Set in the neighboring land of Torla, in a nation filled with telepathic foxes and airships, Winterkeep is filled with Cashore's gorgeous prose and unforgettable characters.
Recommended by Mary Jo S.
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Mahogany L. Browne
[isbn]
Chlorine Sky is the coming-of-age story of a young girl going through the joys and heartaches of growing up. From first romances to falling out with her best friend, this novel-in-verse means Mahogany L. Browne will break your heart in two lines or less every couple of pages, only to put it back together as our hero learns to shine on her own.
Recommended by Rachel M.
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Sabaa Tahir
[isbn]
At last, the fourth and final book in the An Ember in the Ashes series is almost here! This series has it all: expansive world-building, complicated characters, intense action, steamy romance, and now an approaching apocalypse. I can’t wait to see how this series wraps ups and what happens to Laia, Elias, and the Blood Shrike. Since it is being released December 1, I have plenty of time to go back and reread the first three books to get ready for... (read more)
Recommended by Jennifer H.
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Lemony Snicket
[isbn]
Lemony Snicket's Series of Unfortunate Events is a deliciously wicked and painfully twisted story of the Baudelaire orphans. Forced into the grasp of Count Olaf after their parents perish in a fire, the Baudelaires must overcome the greatest of obstacles, only to face increasingly strange problems and riddles as the series continues. Ultimately a tale of ceaseless determination and written with the driest of humor, A Series of Unfortunate... (read more)
Recommended by Alex Y.
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Elsa Whyte, Julie Legere, Laura Perez
[isbn]
Oh my goddess, the pure gorgeousness of this book! From the elegant and detailed writing to the luminous illustrations, to the red ribbon that ties the physical book shut. A wonderful introduction to witchcraft for children and young adults, it's jam-packed with information. The perfect gift for a young feminist witch!
Recommended by Ariel K.
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Raina Telgemeier
[isbn]
I can’t recommend this book enough! Raina shares her own childhood experiences with fear and anxiety through warm illustrations that identify levels 1-10 in concrete ways, and provide helpful tools and methods for coping with stress. Great for ages 10 and up.
Recommended by Kim T.
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Aiden Thomas
[isbn]
Aiden Thomas’s magical YA debut is an ode to honoring your truth as it follows Yadriel, a trans Latinx teenage boy, as he tries to prove that he is a brujo to his conservative family and to himself. Cemetery Boys is the queer story I’ve been trying to summon this whole year and will return to for years to come.
Recommended by Rachel M.
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Ibi Zoboi and Yusef Salaam
[isbn]
Sixteen-year-old Amal has been wrongly accused of a crime he didn’t commit, simply for being in the wrong place in the wrong time. Brilliantly written in verse by National Book Award finalist Ibi Zoboi and Yusef Salaam of the Exonerated Five, Punching the Air is an impactful and necessary book for young adults, families, and educators trying to understand the injustice of systemic racism.
Recommended by Kim T.
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Ben Philippe
[isbn]
Sometimes, I need a good rom-com to escape into, and this second novel from Ben Philippe hits the spot. Henri is currently charming his way through his prestigious high school, trying to keep his parents happy, and earn some money walking dogs in order to reach his goal of being accepted into Columbia University. Things are going to plan until his classmate Corinne discovers that the dog walking company he works for is not what it seems. What... (read more)
Recommended by Jennifer H.
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Tracy Deonn
[isbn]
16-year-old Bree Matthews is living away from home for the first time. She’s dealing with the loss of her mother, and enrolled in a highly competitive academic program. I’ve always been fascinated by Arthurian retakes, but I haven’t read anything lately quite as brilliant as Legendborn. Deonn combines Southern Black culture and history, Arthurian myths, inherited trauma, grief, and more. The result is a smart, sharp urban fantasy that... (read more)
Recommended by Mary Jo S.
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S Jae Jones
[isbn]
A darkly fantastical mix of Goblin King mythology, romance, family drama, and baroque music. Wintersong is all things lush and gorgeous and breathtaking. This book filled the place in my heart left by Labyrinth.
Recommended by Joanna S.
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Jennifer De Leon and Elena Garnu
[isbn]
While the release of this book couldn't be more well timed, I also wish I had read it growing up. Jennifer De Leon perfectly captures the experience of attending a predominantly white institution as a student of color through a fantastic balance of wit, humor, and perception.
Recommended by Rachel M.
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Joanna Hathaway
[isbn]
Feuding families. Teenagers in love. War on the horizon. Dark of the West is a deeply emotional exploration of the quiet, creeping prelude to war. In true Shakespearean fashion, we're shown the inevitable outcome of Aurelia and Athan's relationship in the very first few pages, and the resulting tension is as delicious as it is heartbreaking.
Recommended by Joanna S.
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Whitney Gardner
[isbn]
Love cosplay, feminism, and girls disguising themselves as boys to smash the patriarchy and play D&D? Chaotic Good has all of that, and it creates a fabulous mix of lighthearted fun and serious examination of some social issues. (Also, my favorite Portland comic shop, Books With Pictures, has a cameo!)
Recommended by Joanna S.
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James Rallison
[isbn]
James Rallison is much more than a cult favorite at this point, but his work still feels like a special discovery or a secret handshake. This sequel is filled with more hilarious stories delivered in his candid, charming style.
Recommended by Matt K.
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Benj Pasek and Justin Paul
[isbn]
The inspiring smash hit from the Tony Award-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen gets new life in this lovely keepsake, featuring the song’s lyrics paired with sweeping illustrations. Go ahead and belt out the words as you leaf through the pages.
Recommended by Lucinda G.
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Rory Power
[isbn]
If you like girls supporting girls, girls kissing girls, and occasionally, girls turning into monsters, then this book is for you. Wilder Girls is atmospheric and haunting and disturbing and beautiful, just like its stunning cover art. I'm going to be reading whatever Rory Power writes.
Recommended by Joanna S.
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Rachel Brian
[isbn]
There aren't enough exclamation points to express how much I love this book or how happy I am to see it on the shelf. Not only does it clearly explain consent through the perfect mix of silliness and seriousness, it also discusses topics like boundaries, healthy and unhealthy relationships, how to find help when you need it, and more. Using comic book-style illustrations, this book presents these fundamentally important topics in a... (read more)
Recommended by Christine R.
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Laura Ruby
[isbn]
Printz Award-winning Laura Ruby's exploration of war, desperation, family, love, betrayal, and womanhood — told by the ghost of one girl as she follows the life of another girl in WWII-era Chicago — is lyrical and gorgeous and sharp enough to cut. This book left me reeling for days.
Recommended by Joanna S.
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M K England
[isbn]
This was the diverse space romp I needed! This misfit group of teens, rejected from space academy, must band together to save humanity. This is a perfect flying-by-the-seat-of-your-pants tale for anyone who would want to join Captain Kirk and crew or the Guardians of the Galaxy. ( P.S. There's a heist in this one!)
Recommended by Ari M.
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Emily Suvada
[isbn]
Suvada's This Mortal Coil series comes to an explosive end in This Vicious Cure, a heart-pounding, plot-twisty sci-fi thriller that asks big questions about humanity, genetic technology, and identity. My all-time favorite sci-fi series.
Recommended by Joanna S.
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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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Shelby Mahurin
[isbn]
"Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live." Lou (a scrappy, snarky witch of a girl) and Reid (a stoic, principled witch hunter) accidentally stumble their way into a forced marriage. Lou must hide the secret of her magic from her unexpectedly kind but undeniably dangerous new husband, and Reid, honorable to his core, begins to question where his loyalties lie. A lush, gorgeous, and incredibly fun debut.
Recommended by Joanna S.
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Shaun David Hutchinson
[isbn]
This memoir by popular YA author Shaun David Hutchinson about growing up queer and closeted in the ’90s is gorgeous and heartbreaking and enlightening and somehow funny in the midst of all the pain, and it's such an important addition to the Young Adult canon.
Recommended by Joanna S.
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Margaret Owen
[isbn]
PNW author Margaret Owen had me hooked from the first line of her 2019 debut, The Merciful Crow: “Pa was taking too long to cut the boys’ throats.” The caste-driven fantasy world of plague tenders and bone magic that unspooled from there kept me glued to the page until I’d devoured the whole thing as quickly as I could. I’m now counting down the days until the sequel, The Faithless Hawk, publishes in July; the brief excerpt... (read more)
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Sarah Gailey
[isbn]
Sarah Gailey's debut YA novel is about a lot of things: secret magic powers, an accidental murder on prom night, and a group of friends desperately working to hide the body (yay, teamwork!). But Gailey also does things in this book that are unexpected and wild, a magic of a different nature. They dig deep into feelings about friendship, family, queerness, growing up, and messing up, in all the most painful and beautiful ways.
Recommended by Joanna S.
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Elizabeth Wein
[isbn]
When British spy "Verity" is captured by the Germans in occupied France, to save herself she begins to write her confession. This is a WWII story; a spy story; a story about friendship, sacrifice, and being a woman in a man's world. It has twists you won't see coming and emotional gut punches that will practically knock you over. Fantastic and riveting!
Recommended by Christine R.
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Melissa de la Cruz
[isbn]
Political intrigue, deadly assassins, reluctant lovers — all covered by a veil of lies. De la Cruz’s new fantasy-romance is funny, romantic, propulsive, and ready to be your Friday night date.
Recommended by Lucinda G.
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Sara Pennypacker
[isbn]
Introverted Ware spends the summer trying to hide from the world, but instead discovers that stepping outside your shell and engaging isn’t always so bad after all. This gentle book provides so many important lessons about community, nature, getting involved, and fighting for what you believe in — I loved it!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Patrice Caldwell
[isbn]
This powerhouse YA anthology is a sci-fi/fantasy exploration of the experiences of Black women and gender-nonconforming individuals, with settings ranging from folklore to Afrofuturism. The 16 exquisite stories in this collection (from astronomically talented authors of color including Elizabeth Acevedo, Justina Ireland, Rebecca Roanhorse, and Ibi Zoboi) will stick with you long after you finish reading; editor/author Patrice Caldwell is one to... (read more)
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Holly Black
[isbn]
I do not frequently have the luxury of finishing a book in one sitting. Nor do I often have the desire to do so. This time I did. After consuming the whole of Cruel Prince on New Year's Eve, I read the second installment, The Wicked King, just days after, also in the span of one day. Needless to say, I loved it! The Wicked King had me captivated, mesmerized by the intricate espionage of Jude's game in the High King's... (read more)
Recommended by Samantha C.
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Laura Renauld and Brigette Barrager
[isbn]
This beautifully illustrated biography carries one of Fred Rogers’s most important messages (one we too often forget): it’s okay to have feelings. A great gift for any child learning to navigate emotions healthily, and for adults who (like me) could use a gentle reminder from Fred that it’s okay to be mad; what matters is what we do with the mad that we feel.
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Mildred D. Taylor
[isbn]
Taylor brings the epic yet intimate story of the Logan family to a close in this beautiful and important novel. Following Cassie across the country, Taylor examines how racism varies across the U.S., and Cassie’s attempts to come to terms with the complexity of her identity within her family, the civil rights movement, at work, and in love.
Recommended by Rhianna W.
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Karen M. McManus
[isbn]
A school-wide text game of Truth or Dare brings trouble back to Bayview High. A new group of students are on the case, trying to find the person running the game and spilling secrets. This is a suspenseful thriller with lots of twists and turns. It’s a great read.
Recommended by Jennifer H.
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Adam Silvera
[isbn]
Adam Silvera’s new LGBTQ-inclusive fantasy world is set with demigods, power-hungry wannabes, phoenixes, and other creatures. In a novel bursting with color and action, twin brothers (who couldn’t be more different from each other) come of age in time of whirlwind social media. Explosive!
Recommended by Matt K.
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Tehlor Kay Mejia
[isbn]
With a Handmaid's Tale-esque society, poly-Latinx culture, and espionage, We Set the Dark on Fire is the perfect dystopian novel for the older YA reader. If that doesn't check all your boxes, add queer love, consent culture, and one sexy shower scene.
Recommended by Andy A.
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Mason Deaver
[isbn]
I swiftly fell in love with this book. This was such a realistic and heartfelt portrayal of the complicatedness of coming out as nonbinary, of dealing with an anxiety disorder, of choosing when to trust and when to forgive, of finding family and moving on. The characters are complex and almost tangible and really pack an emotional punch.
Recommended by Jade H.
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Marissa Meyer
[isbn]
Revelations come to light as alliances are exposed, and answers are divulged, in what is a truly spectacular conclusion to one of the best new YA trilogies out there. Without giving away any spoilers, there is also a hands-down, not-to-be-missed epilogue — because it’s not over, folks, until it’s OVER.
Recommended by Matt K.
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Brandon Sanderson
[isbn]
This YA series is a favorite of teen and adult readers alike! Spensa has fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a starship pilot, helping to defend her scavenged homeworld, Detritus, from the never-ending attacks of the Krell. But what is beyond the Krell blockade? Could there be a new home for her people out there in the stars?
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Tomi Adeyemi
[isbn]
Tomi Adeyemi brings stunning world-building and richly layered characters to this glorious YA fantasy. In her long-awaited sequel to Children of Blood and Bone, Zelie and Amari must fight the monarchy and military of Orisha to bring the kingdom together and protect the new magi.
Recommended by Kim T.
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Alicia D. Williams
[isbn]
This book is honest, raw, and very important. It deals with poverty, a parent's addiction, and both external and internalized racism in ways that feel true to life and which are good for kids to see depicted in fiction (either because they can relate to those things, or because they can't.) Genesis Begins Again will break your heart, then put it back together again.
Recommended by Lucinda G.
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Mary H. K. Choi
[isbn]
I loved Mary H. K. Choi's debut Emergency Contact, but I loved her second book Permanent Record even more. In it, Choi tackles fame, social media and that moment between childhood and adulthood where so many of us tend to be lost — and she also takes on debt and the way young people are preyed upon by the credit card and loan industry. Permanent Record should be required reading for teens in high school and college. It... (read more)
Recommended by Erin K.
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Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin Hicks
[isbn]
I’m so excited that two of my favorite creators have come together to create Pumpkinheads! Deja and Josiah have been partnered up at work every fall, but now they are looking at their last shift together. Instead of sticking to the usual plan, Deja wants to make this last shift the best one ever. Exploring the pumpkin patch and the friendship between these two was a ton of fun.
Recommended by Jennifer H.
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Hafsah Faizal
[isbn]
The intricate, character-driven plotting of Graceling, the world-building of Rebel of the Sands, and the boundary-defying heroines of Tamora Pierce collide in this fierce debut from Hafsah Faizal. The Hunter is renowned in Arawiya, for he alone can enter the deadly magical forest of the Arz and return with food to spare. Prince Nasir is spoken of too, but in whispers, for he is his father’s best and cruelest assassin. But there... (read more)
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Rob Sanders and Jamey Christoph
[isbn]
Told primarily from the point of view of the building, this book provides a good introduction, scaled down for a younger audience, to this important historical event. Beautifully illustrated and a good starting point for important discussions.
Recommended by Elizabeth H.
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Kira Willey
[isbn]
This book has been amazing for my son who has anxiety. There are so many exercises in this book and each one is easy for my son to follow. Even my 2-year-old sits down to try the techniques with us. They love pretending and playing and this book turns mindfulness into imaginative play.
Recommended by Rose H.
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Maggie Stiefvater
[isbn]
Quis somnium ipsos somniators? Ronan Lynch has a magnificent, dangerous gift, and he’s not the only one. When a voice comes to him in his dreams, he finds himself in the middle of a complicated web of forgers, dreamers, hunters, and killers. If he can’t unravel his family history and make sense of his inherited talent, he may just be staring down the end of the world. This start to bestselling author Maggie Stiefvater’s new trilogy... (read more)
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Sara Jaffe
[isbn]
The euphoric highs and the despairing lows of adolescence are explored here in Jaffe's Dryland. Julie tries to negotiate the crushing weight of her superstar brother while sorting out her confused emotions. She needs help to understand her own fogged mind, but the people she relies on only seem to hinder her, and she is caught in the undertow of muddy waters. A Portland-centric coming-of-age story that touches on the city's quirks and... (read more)
Recommended by Dianah H.
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Erin A Craig
[isbn]
This is a fabulously creepy, dark, and Gothic retelling of "The Twelve Dancing Princesses" wrapped up in curses and gods. Full of death and mystery: Can you really believe what you see? Dance if you dare. I cannot recommend this book enough!
Recommended by Mecca A.
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Noelle Stevenson
[isbn]
A refreshing and swashbuckling adventure, Nimona by Noelle Stevenson illustrates the importance of self-control and following your instincts.
Recommended by Alex Y.
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Nina Varela
[isbn]
The beginning of an epic new duology, Crier's War is the queer enemies-to-lovers YA fantasy we've all been waiting for, filled with court intrigue and lush, gorgeous writing. I can't wait to see what Nina Varela writes next.
Recommended by Joanna S.
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Natalie C. Parker
[isbn]
Captain Caledonia Styx returns in this Mad Max-esque futuristic celebration of sisterhood on the high seas! Fresh off a failed attempt to take out the man who killed her family, all Caledonia wants is to fight her way back to her crew. But when she finds herself in the midst of a group of defectors from the dictator who pulls the world’s strings, she may end up fighting her way to revolution. This joyous, thrilling series is not to be... (read more)
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Cynthia Hand and Brodi Ashton and Jodi Meadows
[isbn]
My favorite retelling of Jane Eyre! In My Plain Jane, Charlotte Brontë goes to school with Jane, there are ghosts (and a pre-Victorian Ghostbusters-esque society), and Jane's best friend is a dead girl who gives snarky, feminist critiques of Rochester's somewhat problematic approach to romance. This dynamic trio of authors — Brodi Ashton, Cynthia Hand, and Jodi Meadows — brilliantly handles this beloved classic with... (read more)
Recommended by Joanna S.
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Sonia Hartl
[isbn]
Sonia Hartl's Have a Little Faith in Me is one of the funniest books I've read this year. Internet humor has taught me how to read jokes without moving a single facial muscle, but this book had me laughing out loud (really) in public. Not only does it have one of my very favorite romantic tropes — fake dating! — but it also explores real issues like consent in the context of modern day religion. Hartl's writing is dynamic, comedic,... (read more)
Recommended by Joanna S.
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Philip Pullman
[isbn]
The Secret Commonwealth continues the adventure and brilliant world-building of The Book of Dust, as a college-age Lyra sets out to learn more about Dust, and a city in the desert said to be haunted by daemons. But Lyra, Pantalaimon, and Malcolm Polstead will all pay the toll for the secrets revealed.
Recommended by Aubrey W.
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Shea Ernshaw
[isbn]
With Winterwood, Ernshaw has once again crafted the perfect atmospheric autumnal page-turner. I gobbled it up in one sitting — just couldn't put it down! It checks all the boxes for my favorite kind of read: gothic and witchy and stormy and spooky and romantic and mysterious and SO MUCH FUN.
Recommended by Leah C.
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Julia Drake
[isbn]
Loosely based on Shakespeare's Twelfth Night, this beautifully written debut has everything I'm looking for in a contemporary YA novel. Realistic characters that grow and change, an open approach to hardship and recovery, an emphasis on family and friendship, a lovely romance, AND a sense of humor? I'm hooked!
Recommended by Leah C.
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Rainbow Rowell
[isbn]
So, you’ve averted the apocalypse: Now what? Simon was willing to sacrifice his magic to save the world, but even a voluntary sacrifice leaves a wound. Enter boyfriend Baz, best friend Penny, and the road trip of the century. What comes after the “Chosen One” narrative? What do you do after your life’s purpose has been fulfilled?
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Bao Phi and Thi Bui
[isbn]
A father and son fishing trip brings memories of a different pond.This simple bonding story can foster larger discussions about immigration, sacrifice, and family history.
Recommended by Bill L.
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Michelle Ruiz Keil
[isbn]
All of Us With Wings is a remarkable, refreshing, dangerous book filled with
beautiful language. Michelle Ruiz Keil brings the supernatural, the world of
art and music, themes of abuse and agency, and characters so real, my heart
broke for more than one of them. This was such a satisfying read, I didn’t want
it to end, yet it ended where it should. I want more from this author.
Recommended by Doug C.
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Frank Miller and Thomas Wheeler
[isbn]
Cursed delivers a strong feminist retelling of the sword in the stone, where it’s the Lady of the Lake who is the chosen hero of legend. Nimue's ferocity combined with the freshness of the plot make this action-driven story one epic novel.
Recommended by Matt K.
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Tessa Gratton
[isbn]
Strange Grace has some of my favorite ingredients for a book: witches, sacrifices, queer love, body horror, and its own dark, peculiar magic, unique unto itself.
Recommended by Caroline M.
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Yuyi Morales
[isbn]
Caldecott Honoree Yuyi Morales wrote and illustrated this very personal story about how she and her baby son arrived in the United States from Mexico. Not knowing English, they walk through San Francisco until they discover a library that opens up a new and wonderful world for them! Gorgeous, magical illustrations make this a great recommendation for ages 3 and up.
Recommended by Kim T.
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Rachel Lynn Solomon
[isbn]
Seattle author Rachel Lynn Solomon (first book: You'll Miss Me When I'm Gone) has blessed us with this complex novel about what unrequited love can do to a friendship. Not just the heartbreak, but also the alternating feelings of guilt and entitlement — and the seeming impossibility of moving forward. This book is gorgeous and heart-wrenching in the very best of ways.
Recommended by Joanna S.
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Akwaeke Emezi
[isbn]
This is a fast and powerful read, which I highly recommend. Emezi has created a fascinating world where monsters don’t exist anymore. Jam has believed this her whole life, until a winged creature emerges from her mother’s painting and tells her that her friend is in danger. Jam must then figure out who to trust and how best to protect the people she loves.
Recommended by Jennifer H.
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David Yoon
[isbn]
This YA debut blew me away! Frank Li is a Korean American high school senior who is navigating his identity, family, growing up, and falling in love. His parents expect him to date a Korean girl, but Frank has other plans. This smart, funny, coming-of-age story is very well done and the cast of characters make this book really special.
Recommended by Jennifer H.
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Beverly Cleary
[isbn]
I have always been the Beezus to my sister Faith’s Ramona. I have so many fond early memories of our parents reading this series aloud to us (and later to my youngest sister, whose arrival paralleled Roberta’s and cemented in our minds that this series was somehow Meant For Us) that for a long time, “reading” and “Beverly Cleary” were practically synonymous in my mind. On our first childhood trip to Portland, the two most important stops on our... (read more)
Recommended by Madeline S.
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Sarah Henning
[isbn]
Runa and Alia, the Sea King’s twin daughters, are as close as two sisters can be. When Alia makes a desperate trade of her voice for a chance at true love, Runa must place an even greater sacrifice on the line to the Sea Witch, who has the power to help or destroy the girls. But Evie has plans of her own, and just as much at stake as the sisters… if not more.
Recommended by Aubrey W.
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Rebecca Kim Wells
[isbn]
Wells's debut is a unique and exciting take on the traditional YA fantasy. In particular, her attention to diversity breathes new life into the story and leaves you anxiously awaiting the sequel!
Recommended by Lucinda G.
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