Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
Rory is an orca who dreams of seeing the Northern Lights. Along his adventure he meets new friends, forming a special bond as they travel together. The book teaches young readers about determination, friendship, and reaching goals. The illustrations are gorgeous and the “Fun Facts” section at the end adds another layer of learning. A beautiful and memorable read.
Lots of teens find themselves in obsessive and toxic relationships, whether romantic or platonic. While most are not as volatile as Rabbit and Juliet, young people could learn from the mistakes Rabbit makes. There are many occasions where Rabbit does not listen to her own hesitations and goes along with Juliet’s plans. In the end, Rabbit does snap out of it, though almost too late. It is clear that she will be haunted by her relationship with Juliet for the rest of her life.
A powerful reminder that kindness and connection can bloom even in the most unlikely circumstances. The book balances heavy topics with warmth and humor, making it a comforting choice for readers who appreciate emotional depth and character driven storytelling. I recommend it for adult readers or older teens who are prepared to explore themes of grief, healing, and starting over.
In War Games, Alan Gratz delivers another masterful blend of history and heart. Set against the 1936 Berlin Olympics, this story of courage and conviction reminds readers that doing what is right often requires great personal sacrifice. A fast-paced and powerful read that connects history’s lessons to the challenges of today.
In Evil-ish, Kennedy Tarrell blends humor, fantasy, and heart to tell the story of Hawthorne, a nonbinary teen who dreams of villainy but finds something much greater: belonging. When Hawthorne accidentally becomes the leader of a band of misfits, they discover that evil and good are not as simple as they seem. A fast-paced, funny, and affirming graphic novel that celebrates self-discovery and friendship.