Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
There Goes the Neighborhood is a sharp, South L.A.-set adventure that pits three best friends against the crushing forces of gentrification. When a fake-gang scheme to scare off developers leads to a real murder charge, the stakes become life or death. While it tackles heavy themes of displacement and social inequity, the heart of the story remains a relatable love letter to the power of community and authentic friendship.
A Long Stretch of Bad Days is a gritty exploration of classism and buried small-town secrets. When a “good girl” podcaster teams up with a “bad reputation” classmate to solve a cold-case murder for school credit, they uncover more than they bargained for. While the pacing is slow, Mindy McGinnis delivers a timely look at how intergenerational trauma and natural disasters shape a community’s narrative. Perfect for fans of true-crime podcasts.
Hockey Girl Loves Drama Boy is a charming YA graphic novel exploring the unlikely bond between Alix, a hotheaded hockey star, and Ezra, a poised drama student. Beyond the romance, Faith Erin Hicks expertly navigates complex themes of emotional regulation, identity, and the pressures of competitive sports. It’s an honest, contemporary look at self-discovery and finding calm in the storm, making it a must-read for high schoolers navigating their own social rinks.
Shackled is a gripping expose of the “Kids for Cash” scandal, where two Pennsylvania judges funneled thousands of children into for-profit jails for personal gain. Through the heart-wrenching stories of the youth affected, Candy J. Cooper highlights the devastating human cost of systemic corruption. This eye-opening nonfiction title is an essential resource for Grade 10-12 students studying law, ethics, and the urgent need for restorative justice.
Go With the Flow is a bold, honest, and necessary graphic novel that tackles the “taboo” of menstruation head-on. Through the eyes of four high school friends, readers explore the realities of puberty, period poverty, and the power of student advocacy. With its striking red-toned artwork and inclusive language, it is an essential resource for Health classrooms and a powerful celebration of unapologetic female friendship.