Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
In the realm of Awara, where gods, monsters, and humans exist side by side, Miuko is an ordinary girl resigned to a safe, if uneventful, existence as an innkeeper’s daughter. But when she is cursed and begins to transform into a demon, she must decide if saving her soul is worth returning to an ordinary life that no longer fits her.
Sharon Draper’s Out of My Dreams continues Melody’s inspiring journey with warmth and honesty. As Melody travels to London to speak about disability advocacy, she finds courage, friendship, and purpose. A powerful read for classrooms exploring empathy and inclusion.
Cassandra Calin’s The New Girl is a funny, heartfelt graphic novel about friendship, change, and finding yourself in a new place. Lia’s story of moving from Romania to Montreal captures the awkward yet empowering journey of growing up and belonging.
B. B. Alston’s Amari series blends magic, mystery, and heart. In The Great Game and The Despicable Wonders, Amari grows into a courageous young heroine facing moral choices and real-world parallels of prejudice and leadership. A must-read for middle grade fantasy fans.
Alice Oseman’s Heartstopper series continues to shine with empathy and warmth. Volumes Two through Four follow Charlie and Nick’s journey through love, identity, and mental health with honesty and care. A beautifully illustrated and deeply affirming story for teens discovering who they are.