Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
Part mystery, part psychological study, Happiness Falls explores the disappearance of a father through the eyes of his biracial Korean-American family. With a heavy focus on Angelman Syndrome and nonverbal communication, Angie Kim challenges our perceptions of intelligence and disability. Though dense with scientific footnotes, this 3-star novel is a profound inquiry into how we understand those who cannot speak, making it a must-read for psychology and special education enthusiasts.
Get ready for a “heady” and serpentine mystery with the K Team! In Good Dog, Bad Cop, Corey Douglas and his K-9 partner Simon Garfunkel take on a cold case to clear a mentor’s name. This 4-star procedural is witty, complex, and skillfully woven. While the human characters take center stage, the canine hero Simon Garfunkel is the true star of this Paterson, NJ investigation. Perfect for fans of complex puzzles.
Step behind the white picket fence of the 1950s in The Mad Wife. Meagan Church delivers a haunting look at medical gaslighting and the suffocating pressure of domestic perfection. While it moves at a slow, psychological burn, this 3-star thriller is a deep dive into maternal mental health and the dark side of history. It’s a provocative choice for book clubs and mature readers interested in the messy reality behind “perfect” vintage ads.
Darcie Little Badger returns with a powerful prequel to Elatsoe. In Sheine Lende, traditional Lipan Apache knowledge is the key to a supernatural rescue mission. By blending ghost-raising and fairy rings with real-world issues of Indigenous sovereignty and displacement, this 4-star fantasy offers a unique, compelling look at cultural preservation. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves high-stakes adventure and mythology grounded in authentic Indigenous perspectives.
Step into a 1960s coastal mystery where the “Hardy Boys” vibe meets the supernatural. The Montague Twins: The Witch’s Hand follows Pete and Al as they uncover family secrets and latent magical powers. With expressive art and a moving coming-out story, this graphic novel balances thrilling detective work with a heartfelt exploration of identity and family. A perfect choice for readers who love high-stakes mysteries with a magical twist!