DEBATING DARCY
By S. Dasgupta

This was a fun Pride and Prejudice retelling set in the interesting world of school speech and debate tournaments. The large cast of characters added a fun dynamic to the overall story and played off well against the sassy heroine, Leela.

Firoze Darcy was brilliantly written as Leela's antagonist turned more and had a deep and layered past that was expertly woven into the story.

A humorous read filled with witty banter and literary references.

EXCUSE ME WHILE I UGLY CRY
By J. Goffney

This is an emotional YA read about a list-obsessed teen who's private journal falls into the wrong hands leading to blackmail via social media.

She teams up with the last person to see the journal, cute and practical Carter, in an attempt to try and get it back before her reputation is completely ruined. Along the way, she learns a lot about herself, her family, her friend group, and the type of person she wants to become. Not to mention, the type of boy she wants by her side.

Topics explored include race, identity, authenticity, friendship, bravery, and living honestly. Highly recommend.

THE LIBRARY OF LOST THINGS
By L. Taylor Namey

From the author of A Cuban Girl's Guide to Tea and Tomorrow comes another story about family and love.

Darcy is a caring, book-loving heroine who's daily struggles to keep her mother's pathological hoarding a secret from the world could cost her the college life she dreams of, not to mention her growing connection with a boy from school—Asher, who's battling issues of his own.

Supported by a caring and full of life best friend, Darcy takes on extra work to meet the financial expenses of the household while juggling school, her challenging mother, and moments with Asher.
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This is one for readers who like their heart strings tugged and slow, slow, slow burn romance.

HOW TO BE A GIRL IN THE WORLD
By C. Carter

​Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

HOW TO BE A GIRL IN THE WORLD is an important middle-grade novel about standing up for oneself and speaking the truth, no matter how awkward doing so may be. It will hopefully become an invaluable resource for parents and educators in opening up discussions over body positivity, touch boundaries and consent, and handling inappropriate sexual behavior. Topics that, historically, have not received the attention they deserve.

Lydia isn't sure why some of her school friends like it when boys call them names and try to see up their skirts or why she doesn't. Is there something wrong with her? And is her mom's boyfriend just overly friendly or inappropriate when he gives her long hugs or touches her knee? Too scared to articulate these concerns, Lydia turns to layers of clothing to hide her body and searches for answers and protection in a book of magic spells.

Carter does a wonderful job of letting the reader inside Lydia's head and showcasing just how difficult speaking up can be, especially when trusted adults are dismissive of one's concerns. This book is a must-read for tween girls and is sure to have a positive impact on the lives of many.

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FLYING OVER WATER
By S. Hitchcock & N. H. Senzai

Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

This page-turning dual point-of-view middle-grade novel tells the stories of Noura, a Syrian refugee, and Jordyn, the student ambassador who welcomes Noura and her twin brother to their new school in Tampa, Florida. 

As the girls become better acquainted, they realize they are both battling demons and set about helping each other. But bigger issues are going on around them. There is unrest in the community. The mosque Noura and her family attend is burnt by arsonists and the U.S President has announced a Muslim ban. Other minority groups are suffering, too. 

This is a wonderful, much-needed novel for introducing middle-graders to the important concepts of immigration, what it means to be a refugee, prejudice/racism, and discrimination. It also provides readers with a deeper understanding of the Syrian refugee experience. Read and share widely—with increased tolerance and understanding the world will move closer to becoming a better place for all.

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ABBY, TRIED AND TRUE
By D. Gephart

On sale Date: 3/9/2021

Thank you to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

From award-winning middle-grade author, Donna Gephart, comes a powerful novel about friendship and family.

Seventh-grader Abby is a softy-spoken, endearing protagonist who must find inner strength when her brother, Paul, is diagnosed with testicular cancer and her best (and only) friend moves away.

Through Abbie's eyes, Gephart honestly explores the impact of Paul's cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment on the family unit. 

The heaviness of this situation is lightened by Abby's developing feelings for her new neighbor, the cute and sensitive Conrad. Her supportive mom's and extended family are equally endearing.

An extended author's note provides information about Gephart's personal struggles with ovarian cancer as well as information specific to testicular cancer.

This is an important read for those wishing to learn more about cancer treatment or supporting a loved one with cancer. Hopefully, it will also increase awareness of testicular cancer (and the importance of early diagnosis) amongst middle-grade readers.

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SING LIKE NO ONE'S LISTENING
By Vanessa Jones

​Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Set in London, this turbulent young adult novel features Nettie, a talented singer/songwriter who is accepted into a top performing arts school but grapples with finding her voice while grieving the death of her ballerina mother.

Nellie's character is distinct and the backdrop of the school is rich with detail and provides a fascinating peek behind the curtain's of the theater world. Plot twists and turns, including an intense love interest, bullies, and pressure from the teachers to perform and overcome her voice hurdles, keep the book steaming along. An enjoyable read!

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IF WE WERE US
By K.L. Walther

​Thanks to the @kidlitexchange network for the review copy of this book. All opinions are my own. 

​A light-hearted YA rom-com novel for high-schoolers contemplating relationships, college, and adulthood. This dual POV story, set in a boarding school, focuses on Sage and Charlie, lifelong best friends.

During the course of the story, Sage falls in love with Charlie's twin—Nick. While Charlie, who is coming to terms with his sexual identity, falls for a family friend—Luke.

The alternating POV chapters in this story work well and allow for deeper character development, though their voices could have been a little more distinctive. 

There are plenty of small plot twists and bumps to keep up the pace and ensure readers stay engaged and turning pages.

A fun summer read.

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