Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
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.
They call me La Furia. It did not happen all at once. It was born the moment I realized I did not have to stay quiet. On the field, I am faster than the fear that tries to chase me. I am stronger than the expectations that try to contain me. When I run, I feel my heart open like a door to the world. There, I am not what anyone says I am. I am what I choose to become.
The Goldfish Boy by Lisa Thompson is a thoughtful mystery that weaves empathy and mental health into a gripping story. As Matthew battles his fears and faces the disappearance of a neighborhood toddler, readers are invited to explore what it means to truly see others. Perfect for upper elementary and middle-grade readers ready for meaningful discussions about loss, healing, and courage.
In The Pie That Molly Grew, a single seed blossoms into a harvest celebration. Through rhythmic text and warm illustrations, Sue Heavenrich shows how care and patience can turn a small act into something that nourishes many. Perfect for teaching the life cycle of plants and gratitude for nature’s gifts.
Bored and stuck at home after an accident, Carter starts watching his town’s police camera feeds just to pass the time. But when harmless curiosity turns into a full-blown obsession, Carter finds himself caught in mysteries he may not be ready to solve—and learning that snooping always comes with a price.