A chilling, brilliantly imagined look at a future America torn apart by war, climate collapse, and radicalization. Akkad’s debut is haunting, immersive, and impossible to forget.
The Paper Girl of Paris is a captivating YA historical fiction novel that blends the tragedy of the Holocaust with a compelling family mystery. As Alice uncovers the secrets of her grandmother’s abandoned Paris apartment, readers are drawn into a story of harrowing survival and the enduring power of family, making it an excellent supplemental read for a unit on WWII.
The Spirit Bear Series is a powerful duology exploring the impact of violence and the long road to redemption. Protagonist Cole Matthews’ journey, from isolation in Alaska to confronting his past in high school, is a great read for teens, emphasizing accountability and the profound connection between self-healing and changing one’s community.
Gregg Olsen’s If You Tell is a true crime story of horrific abuse and survival. While not for the faint of heart, this powerful account of the Knotek sisters’ unbreakable bond offers validation to students facing violence and provides crucial awareness for educators seeking to understand their students’ struggles. A true story of perseverance and love.