Fresh Reads, Honest reviews, Educator-approved
The Wilderness of Girls starts strong with an intriguing mix of mystery, identity, and survival. Reviewer Tami Rigling notes that while the opening captivates, the story becomes confusing as major details go unresolved, especially the question of who Mother is. Simple black and white illustrations add atmosphere but not clarity. With its emotional intensity and ambiguous ending, this book may appeal to readers who enjoy darker, unresolved stories but may frustrate others.
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.
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.
In The Puppets of Spelhorst, five puppets dream of freedom and purpose as they pass from owner to owner until finding themselves part of a magical play that fulfills each of their secret wishes. Through imagination, friendship, and self-discovery, Kate DiCamillo reminds readers that every story, no matter how small, holds meaning and heart.