Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
Is your life a choice or an accident? A 16,000-mile bike trip from Oregon to Patagonia becomes the backdrop for a profound internal awakening. From sleeping under bridges in Mexico to navigating the heights of the Andes, Jenkins explores the intersection of faith, identity, and the raw grit required to live a life without regret. A must-read for any aspiring wanderer.
High-flying tiger spirits meet the cold void of space. Cadet Sebin must choose between family honor and military duty when their uncle is branded a traitor. It’s an accessible pick for fans of the Dragon Pearl series who want a quick adventure.
Something is biting in Deepwater Creek, and it’s not a fish. This graphic novel follows two brothers whose final summer fishing trip turns into a supernatural nightmare. When the adults won’t listen, it’s up to the kids to face the monsters lurking in the depths and in their own minds.
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.
Looking for an entry point into fantasy without the 500-page lore dump? Fast-paced adventure perfect for younger or reluctant readers featuring a hero who gains divine powers to avenge a family tragedy, it offers straightforward action and clear stakes. While simple for seasoned fantasy fans, it’s a solid introduction to the “Hero’s Journey” and the influence of fickle gods.