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Recommend this book:
Heightened
Project Evolve
Kevin E. Morris
2026 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Get ready for a gripping sci-fi adventure with Kevin E. Morris' young adult thriller -- Heightened: Project Evolve. For the past ten years, Kai Chapman has been living at the Hope Street School for Boys with no memories of his parents or his early childhood. Haunted by nightly visions, Kai encounters a mysterious man named Flint, who introduces himself as a friend of his father's and apprises Kai of his unique Heightened abilities. Flint takes Kai to the underground Sanctuary, where he encounters others with extraordinary abilities, all trying to escape the radar of the nefarious Stratus and his men. As Kai trains to master his abilities, his instructor, Jax, is abducted by men in uniforms. Can Kai and his friends rescue Jax and stop Stratus' insidious plan?
X-Men meets The Maze Runner! That's how it felt to read this action-packed novel by Kevin E. Morris. Heightened: Project Evolve is, at its heart, a superhero origin story. Weaving a fast-paced plot, Morris crafts an absorbing tale layered with mystery, suspense, and intrigue. The twists and turns are well-placed and keep you wondering what's about to happen next. The main protagonist, Kai, grows a lot over the course of the story. His character development was one of the book's highlights for me. I also enjoyed the secondary characters like Ollie and Sam, as well as the dynamic between Kai, Flint, and Sierra. The book concludes with a thrilling sequence of events, culminating in a cliffhanger that leaves a few plot threads open-ended, which I believe will be resolved in the sequel. It's an entertaining thriller for young adult readers!
Get ready for a gripping sci-fi adventure with Kevin E. Morris' young adult thriller -- Heightened: Project Evolve. For the past ten years, Kai Chapman has been living at the Hope Street School for Boys with no memories of his parents or his early childhood. Haunted by nightly visions, Kai encounters a mysterious man named Flint, who introduces himself as a friend of his father's and apprises Kai of his unique Heightened abilities. Flint takes Kai to the underground Sanctuary, where he encounters others with extraordinary abilities, all trying to escape the radar of the nefarious Stratus and his men. As Kai trains to master his abilities, his instructor, Jax, is abducted by men in uniforms. Can Kai and his friends rescue Jax and stop Stratus' insidious plan?
X-Men meets The Maze Runner! That's how it felt to read this action-packed novel by Kevin E. Morris. Heightened: Project Evolve is, at its heart, a superhero origin story. Weaving a fast-paced plot, Morris crafts an absorbing tale layered with mystery, suspense, and intrigue. The twists and turns are well-placed and keep you wondering what's about to happen next. The main protagonist, Kai, grows a lot over the course of the story. His character development was one of the book's highlights for me. I also enjoyed the secondary characters like Ollie and Sam, as well as the dynamic between Kai, Flint, and Sierra. The book concludes with a thrilling sequence of events, culminating in a cliffhanger that leaves a few plot threads open-ended, which I believe will be resolved in the sequel. It's an entertaining thriller for young adult readers!
Recommend this book:
We Be Dragons
Michael Weitz
2026 Honorable Mention
437 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
We Be Dragons by Michael Weitz follows John Brewer through a summer in a small Idaho town after he loses his job at a local gas station. John needs money for college, so he takes work on Jim Henley’s farm, where long hours, strict oversight, and past accidents create ongoing friction. At the same time, John runs a Dungeons & Dragons campaign in his garage. This game is the center of his friendships and the one part of his week that makes him feel competent and in control. Pressure from church members who object to the game affects the group of friends, feeds small-town gossip, and worsens John’s position at the church-going Henley's farm. As the summer moves on, a blaze threatens Henley’s farm, and John's fortitude is put to the test.
We Be Dragons by Michael Weitz is a D&D lover's dream, and almost a guidebook built into a story for those who are less familiar with how it works. At its heart, the story is a beautiful portrayal of the way that teens, in a time devoid of tech, could break away from the issues that plagued adults. Still, the shared world at the table has less of a glaring contrast between the dangers faced by their D&D characters and the strain placed on their real lives. There is a body count in both. The game sessions are fun, and I love feeling like a fly on the wall in a war of strategy. We get some good angst and grumblings within the group, and a twist that shakes the whole thing up. Overall, this is a brilliant novel and worth the time and emotional investment.
We Be Dragons by Michael Weitz follows John Brewer through a summer in a small Idaho town after he loses his job at a local gas station. John needs money for college, so he takes work on Jim Henley’s farm, where long hours, strict oversight, and past accidents create ongoing friction. At the same time, John runs a Dungeons & Dragons campaign in his garage. This game is the center of his friendships and the one part of his week that makes him feel competent and in control. Pressure from church members who object to the game affects the group of friends, feeds small-town gossip, and worsens John’s position at the church-going Henley's farm. As the summer moves on, a blaze threatens Henley’s farm, and John's fortitude is put to the test.
We Be Dragons by Michael Weitz is a D&D lover's dream, and almost a guidebook built into a story for those who are less familiar with how it works. At its heart, the story is a beautiful portrayal of the way that teens, in a time devoid of tech, could break away from the issues that plagued adults. Still, the shared world at the table has less of a glaring contrast between the dangers faced by their D&D characters and the strain placed on their real lives. There is a body count in both. The game sessions are fun, and I love feeling like a fly on the wall in a war of strategy. We get some good angst and grumblings within the group, and a twist that shakes the whole thing up. Overall, this is a brilliant novel and worth the time and emotional investment.
Recommend this book:
The Return of the White Witch
Theresa Leyes
2026 Bronze Medal
235 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Theresa Leyes’ The Return of the White Witch follows thirteen-year-old Dylan Edwards as he remains in Calinore, the magical realm where King Mordrid has stolen the throne, and Drucilla of Bloodrot plans to seize even more power. Dylan is aboard the pirate ship Crusty Kracken with his father, Eric, while the royal family survives in mouse form and King Paul’s soul remains trapped inside a journal. To restore the kingdom, Dylan must bring together Tabitha’s old magic, Drucilla’s wand, and the scepter tied to Calinore’s royal line. As crows, pirates, witches, dragons, and citizens move toward Bloodrot Forest, Dylan has to finish the counter curse before Mordrid and Drucilla make Calinore impossible to reclaim.
Theresa Leyes’ The Return of the White Witch is a magical adventure with real heart, and Leyes gives Dylan’s quest the feeling of a family story as much as a fantasy battle. Dylan works so well because he is still a child, but the people around him recognize his courage and treat him as an active, important member with agency. I especially loved the moment when Babette, the baker protecting the transformed royal family inside her hat, reminds him that her life changed because he arrived with talking mice who needed help. That small exchange makes the adventure feel human before the battle grows larger. Kale, the dragon Dylan once freed from Mordrid’s dungeon, is also wonderful because his reunion with the royal family gives the magic a personal history. Well written and full of charm, readers who enjoy heartfelt fantasy quests will adore this book.
Theresa Leyes’ The Return of the White Witch follows thirteen-year-old Dylan Edwards as he remains in Calinore, the magical realm where King Mordrid has stolen the throne, and Drucilla of Bloodrot plans to seize even more power. Dylan is aboard the pirate ship Crusty Kracken with his father, Eric, while the royal family survives in mouse form and King Paul’s soul remains trapped inside a journal. To restore the kingdom, Dylan must bring together Tabitha’s old magic, Drucilla’s wand, and the scepter tied to Calinore’s royal line. As crows, pirates, witches, dragons, and citizens move toward Bloodrot Forest, Dylan has to finish the counter curse before Mordrid and Drucilla make Calinore impossible to reclaim.
Theresa Leyes’ The Return of the White Witch is a magical adventure with real heart, and Leyes gives Dylan’s quest the feeling of a family story as much as a fantasy battle. Dylan works so well because he is still a child, but the people around him recognize his courage and treat him as an active, important member with agency. I especially loved the moment when Babette, the baker protecting the transformed royal family inside her hat, reminds him that her life changed because he arrived with talking mice who needed help. That small exchange makes the adventure feel human before the battle grows larger. Kale, the dragon Dylan once freed from Mordrid’s dungeon, is also wonderful because his reunion with the royal family gives the magic a personal history. Well written and full of charm, readers who enjoy heartfelt fantasy quests will adore this book.
Recommend this book:
Shattered Streams
Kelly Pollard
2026 Silver Medal
318 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Robert A. Groves for Readers' Favorite
If the moment that broke you still defined every choice you made, what would it take—and who would it take—to finally set you free? That is the question 17-year-old Avery Warren needs to find the answer to in Kelly Pollard’s Shattered Streams. As she arrives in Nelson, Avery is hoping for a quiet summer with her brother, Jay. Steadfastly haunted by a childhood trauma involving her father, Avery lives a guarded life avoiding risk and situations that might expose her fear. New friends pull her into their world of lakeside parties, frozen yogurt runs, and sand volleyball. However, it is Dalton Valtos who sees through her defenses. After coming to her aid during a moment of panic, Dalton becomes the first person whom Avery trusts enough to begin to share details of her trauma. As their connection deepens, Avery realizes it’s time to confront her guilt and try to make changes. Dalton, with secrets of his own, is there to help her. Will Avery find the courage to resurface from the trauma?
Shattered Streams by Kelly Pollard is a tender, emotionally charged story about trauma, healing, first love, and the courage it takes to step back into life after believing you’ll never surface again. She writes with an emotional intelligence that is remarkably assured. The flow is steady and immersive, carrying readers through Avery Warren’s journey with thoughtful restraint. While trauma is never an easy theme, Pollard has used it with an air of gentleness and care. Using a well-crafted cast of supporting characters, she successfully balances darkness with moments of lightness. Dalton is especially easy to connect with; he’s the kind of friend everyone wishes for during their hardest times. His calm strength gives Avery the space she needs to face what scares her most. Avery’s storyline is effective because it is not rushed to a conclusion. Readers are invited to be with her and experience all the feelings she goes through. Shattered Streams is an easy recommendation – gentle, gripping, and ultimately a hopeful story about finding courage after loss.
If the moment that broke you still defined every choice you made, what would it take—and who would it take—to finally set you free? That is the question 17-year-old Avery Warren needs to find the answer to in Kelly Pollard’s Shattered Streams. As she arrives in Nelson, Avery is hoping for a quiet summer with her brother, Jay. Steadfastly haunted by a childhood trauma involving her father, Avery lives a guarded life avoiding risk and situations that might expose her fear. New friends pull her into their world of lakeside parties, frozen yogurt runs, and sand volleyball. However, it is Dalton Valtos who sees through her defenses. After coming to her aid during a moment of panic, Dalton becomes the first person whom Avery trusts enough to begin to share details of her trauma. As their connection deepens, Avery realizes it’s time to confront her guilt and try to make changes. Dalton, with secrets of his own, is there to help her. Will Avery find the courage to resurface from the trauma?
Shattered Streams by Kelly Pollard is a tender, emotionally charged story about trauma, healing, first love, and the courage it takes to step back into life after believing you’ll never surface again. She writes with an emotional intelligence that is remarkably assured. The flow is steady and immersive, carrying readers through Avery Warren’s journey with thoughtful restraint. While trauma is never an easy theme, Pollard has used it with an air of gentleness and care. Using a well-crafted cast of supporting characters, she successfully balances darkness with moments of lightness. Dalton is especially easy to connect with; he’s the kind of friend everyone wishes for during their hardest times. His calm strength gives Avery the space she needs to face what scares her most. Avery’s storyline is effective because it is not rushed to a conclusion. Readers are invited to be with her and experience all the feelings she goes through. Shattered Streams is an easy recommendation – gentle, gripping, and ultimately a hopeful story about finding courage after loss.
Recommend this book:
The Space Between Our Hearts
Hannah Stone
2026 Silver Medal
258 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
This is a coming-of-age tale about an 18-year-old girl named Rindy, who has aged out of the foster care system and arrives in Tinlee Bay, California, with only a backpack filled with her entire life and the determination to start over. Facing life’s challenges, like where she sleeps at night and trying to keep the job she just got while also trying to reinvent herself, she’s determined to make it on her own finally. She begins to open up to Nolan, but can’t find the courage to tell him about the real her. Nolan, on the other hand, is quiet, supportive, and also happens to be her boss’s son. Centering on Rindy’s emotional growth, self-discovery, and the sense of belonging and identity, The Space Between Our Hearts by Hannah Stone is a touching story that will leave a lasting impression.
While I was first drawn to the book by its cover, I was even more moved by the story inside. The Space Between Our Hearts by Hannah Stone is relatable on numerous levels, particularly for readers who appreciate stories about resilience and emotional growth. The writing draws you in and is honest, with Rindy’s first-person voice pulling readers right into her world. I was rooting for Rindy from the start, and I was glad to see that once she decided to take control of her life, her luck began to change, despite her belief that she didn’t deserve it. I also appreciated the slow-burning connection between her and Nolan. Perhaps the most relatable part is her embarrassment about the life she leads outside of work and her worry that it will all be exposed, and that everyone will hate her, especially if that means her growing relationship with Nolan will come to an end. I love coming-of-age stories, and this one seals the deal for that reason.
This is a coming-of-age tale about an 18-year-old girl named Rindy, who has aged out of the foster care system and arrives in Tinlee Bay, California, with only a backpack filled with her entire life and the determination to start over. Facing life’s challenges, like where she sleeps at night and trying to keep the job she just got while also trying to reinvent herself, she’s determined to make it on her own finally. She begins to open up to Nolan, but can’t find the courage to tell him about the real her. Nolan, on the other hand, is quiet, supportive, and also happens to be her boss’s son. Centering on Rindy’s emotional growth, self-discovery, and the sense of belonging and identity, The Space Between Our Hearts by Hannah Stone is a touching story that will leave a lasting impression.
While I was first drawn to the book by its cover, I was even more moved by the story inside. The Space Between Our Hearts by Hannah Stone is relatable on numerous levels, particularly for readers who appreciate stories about resilience and emotional growth. The writing draws you in and is honest, with Rindy’s first-person voice pulling readers right into her world. I was rooting for Rindy from the start, and I was glad to see that once she decided to take control of her life, her luck began to change, despite her belief that she didn’t deserve it. I also appreciated the slow-burning connection between her and Nolan. Perhaps the most relatable part is her embarrassment about the life she leads outside of work and her worry that it will all be exposed, and that everyone will hate her, especially if that means her growing relationship with Nolan will come to an end. I love coming-of-age stories, and this one seals the deal for that reason.
Recommend this book:
Gripped Part 4
Smoke & Mirrors
Stacy A Padula
2026 Gold Medal
274 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Keith Mbuya for Readers' Favorite
After meeting for the first time in months, Taylor and his youngest brother, Marc Dunkin, have reconciled, and Taylor has even agreed to go home to Montgomery, Massachusetts, for Easter. And because Jordan Dunkin was also flying in from the University of Notre Dame, Indiana, Taylor agrees to pick him up and go home with him. Before leaving, Marc informed Taylor about the police: that Taylor is a person of interest in a highly confidential case headed by the Boston PD, and that they want to help because his life might be in danger. The news only complicates Taylor’s plans, especially because he was planning to quit dealing drugs. Unknown to his family, Taylor decides to visit his supplier before picking up Jordan. However, something unexpected is about to happen, and the Dunkins might not be ready for it. Find out how it all goes down in Gripped Part 4: Smoke and Mirrors by Stacy A. Padula.
If you are looking for a young adult contemporary drama novel laced with crime, gritty realism, and suspense, Smoke and Mirrors by Stacy A. Padula is a perfect pick. Padula introduced me to the troubled cast with raw prose, lively conversations, and vivid imagery. It felt like I was right in the middle of all the action in Boston, following Taylor as he faced his supplier at the pizza shop, Marc and Cathy navigating their relationship, and Luke and his friends grappling with worrying news at the nightclub while partying. The story unfolds like a premium teen drama TV show featuring parallel compelling storylines, spellbinding cliffhangers, and everything about high school, college, and teenage life. Young adults will learn a lot about the pitfalls of drug dealing and addiction, handling social and intimate relationships, and, more importantly, learn to make better decisions. This page turner is an enthralling standalone fourth installment in the Gripped series. I loved it.
After meeting for the first time in months, Taylor and his youngest brother, Marc Dunkin, have reconciled, and Taylor has even agreed to go home to Montgomery, Massachusetts, for Easter. And because Jordan Dunkin was also flying in from the University of Notre Dame, Indiana, Taylor agrees to pick him up and go home with him. Before leaving, Marc informed Taylor about the police: that Taylor is a person of interest in a highly confidential case headed by the Boston PD, and that they want to help because his life might be in danger. The news only complicates Taylor’s plans, especially because he was planning to quit dealing drugs. Unknown to his family, Taylor decides to visit his supplier before picking up Jordan. However, something unexpected is about to happen, and the Dunkins might not be ready for it. Find out how it all goes down in Gripped Part 4: Smoke and Mirrors by Stacy A. Padula.
If you are looking for a young adult contemporary drama novel laced with crime, gritty realism, and suspense, Smoke and Mirrors by Stacy A. Padula is a perfect pick. Padula introduced me to the troubled cast with raw prose, lively conversations, and vivid imagery. It felt like I was right in the middle of all the action in Boston, following Taylor as he faced his supplier at the pizza shop, Marc and Cathy navigating their relationship, and Luke and his friends grappling with worrying news at the nightclub while partying. The story unfolds like a premium teen drama TV show featuring parallel compelling storylines, spellbinding cliffhangers, and everything about high school, college, and teenage life. Young adults will learn a lot about the pitfalls of drug dealing and addiction, handling social and intimate relationships, and, more importantly, learn to make better decisions. This page turner is an enthralling standalone fourth installment in the Gripped series. I loved it.
Recommend this book:
Savant
Book 1 of The Stream and the Void
Jason Aaron Cameron
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Savant: Book 1 of The Stream and the Void by Jason Aaron Cameron is a sweeping epic fantasy where we find ourselves with Talia, Sai, and Yang. These are three friends whose lives are torn apart by the forces of the Void. After Talia unknowingly taps into the Stream, her immense powers make her a target of the Void’s minions. Forced to flee, she struggles to control her abilities while evading relentless pursuers. Sai, seeking freedom from imprisonment, is drawn into the cutthroat world of aristocracy, while Yang’s quest to retrieve Sai’s heirloom ring takes him on a perilous journey, risking exposure to the Void itself. As their fates intertwine, the trio must navigate shifting alliances and face impossible choices in this richly imagined adventure.
Author Jason Aaron Cameron has a keen attention to detail that is present from the very first moment you start this novel. The intricate world-building grows with every chapter to bring the Stream and the Void to life with mesmerizing lore, settings, and people. I really liked the way the historical context of the land was embedded into the characters' attitudes and everyday speech. Elements like this and the complexity of the magic system bring originality to the fantasy landscape from an author who has thought about every angle of his world. There's a clear passion and enthusiasm for making lovable characters, too. Talia, Sai, and Yang have individual journeys that are compelling and emotionally resonant, but their interactions together and the way fate brings them in offers the biggest emotional payoff. Overall, for a read with a seamless blend of action, intrigue, and high stakes, I would highly recommend Savant, and I can't wait to see where the series takes us next.
Savant: Book 1 of The Stream and the Void by Jason Aaron Cameron is a sweeping epic fantasy where we find ourselves with Talia, Sai, and Yang. These are three friends whose lives are torn apart by the forces of the Void. After Talia unknowingly taps into the Stream, her immense powers make her a target of the Void’s minions. Forced to flee, she struggles to control her abilities while evading relentless pursuers. Sai, seeking freedom from imprisonment, is drawn into the cutthroat world of aristocracy, while Yang’s quest to retrieve Sai’s heirloom ring takes him on a perilous journey, risking exposure to the Void itself. As their fates intertwine, the trio must navigate shifting alliances and face impossible choices in this richly imagined adventure.
Author Jason Aaron Cameron has a keen attention to detail that is present from the very first moment you start this novel. The intricate world-building grows with every chapter to bring the Stream and the Void to life with mesmerizing lore, settings, and people. I really liked the way the historical context of the land was embedded into the characters' attitudes and everyday speech. Elements like this and the complexity of the magic system bring originality to the fantasy landscape from an author who has thought about every angle of his world. There's a clear passion and enthusiasm for making lovable characters, too. Talia, Sai, and Yang have individual journeys that are compelling and emotionally resonant, but their interactions together and the way fate brings them in offers the biggest emotional payoff. Overall, for a read with a seamless blend of action, intrigue, and high stakes, I would highly recommend Savant, and I can't wait to see where the series takes us next.
Recommend this book:
The Pandora's Box
Conjurer's Prophecy
L.S. Franco
2025 Honorable Mention
272 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Manik Chaturmutha for Readers' Favorite
The Pandora's Box is the first book in L.S. Franco's Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy, in which readers meet Liam Hale, an ordinary teenage boy. His adventure begins in the magical town of Downtown, where he meets a group of unique individuals: Ada Simmons, a mysterious girl with a shady history; Benjamin Finnegan, a mage apprentice; and Zac and Zoe Leblanche, twins who are witches. Together, they set out on an adventure to rescue a powerful artifact and stop the Dark Magic Sovereign, Montgomery Winifred. As Liam and his friends dive deeper into the realm of magic and ancient prophecies, they face more dangers, whether it is a mythical creature or a demon that flies. This captivating narrative is infused with fantasy, fun, and a hint of romance, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and the consequences of unchecked power.
The author masterfully blends fantasy and science fiction to create a world so unique that it draws readers in. Vivid descriptions of the scenes highlight both the magical and technological aspects of this society. The author brings this world to life and makes it easy for readers to visualize the scenes and the characters. Liam, the protagonist, is easy to relate to. His change from a confused young man into a potential sorcerer makes for an inspiring, realistic protagonist. From enigmatic mentors to loyal friends and sly antagonists, all of whom are well-rounded characters, their characterization provides great layers of interest. The author adeptly handles their interactions, creating complex and rich character dynamics. The pacing is balanced, combining high-energy action sequences with quieter character moments. These encounters instill a heightened sense of urgency and danger, while the calmer scenes are thoughtfully executed. The intelligent and humorous dialogue adds levity amidst the darker themes. The Pandora's Box by L.S. Franco is an impressive introduction to the Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy. With its complex plotlines, well-developed characters, and rich symbolism, this book stands out in the fantasy genre. Overall, this is an exhilarating adventure that will appeal to fans of fantasy and young adult fiction.
The Pandora's Box is the first book in L.S. Franco's Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy, in which readers meet Liam Hale, an ordinary teenage boy. His adventure begins in the magical town of Downtown, where he meets a group of unique individuals: Ada Simmons, a mysterious girl with a shady history; Benjamin Finnegan, a mage apprentice; and Zac and Zoe Leblanche, twins who are witches. Together, they set out on an adventure to rescue a powerful artifact and stop the Dark Magic Sovereign, Montgomery Winifred. As Liam and his friends dive deeper into the realm of magic and ancient prophecies, they face more dangers, whether it is a mythical creature or a demon that flies. This captivating narrative is infused with fantasy, fun, and a hint of romance, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and the consequences of unchecked power.
The author masterfully blends fantasy and science fiction to create a world so unique that it draws readers in. Vivid descriptions of the scenes highlight both the magical and technological aspects of this society. The author brings this world to life and makes it easy for readers to visualize the scenes and the characters. Liam, the protagonist, is easy to relate to. His change from a confused young man into a potential sorcerer makes for an inspiring, realistic protagonist. From enigmatic mentors to loyal friends and sly antagonists, all of whom are well-rounded characters, their characterization provides great layers of interest. The author adeptly handles their interactions, creating complex and rich character dynamics. The pacing is balanced, combining high-energy action sequences with quieter character moments. These encounters instill a heightened sense of urgency and danger, while the calmer scenes are thoughtfully executed. The intelligent and humorous dialogue adds levity amidst the darker themes. The Pandora's Box by L.S. Franco is an impressive introduction to the Conjurer's Prophecy Trilogy. With its complex plotlines, well-developed characters, and rich symbolism, this book stands out in the fantasy genre. Overall, this is an exhilarating adventure that will appeal to fans of fantasy and young adult fiction.
Recommend this book:
Half-Truths
Carol Baldwin
2025 Bronze Medal
318 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite
Half-Truths by Carol Baldwin introduces Katie, a fifteen-year-old girl in 1950s Tabor City, North Carolina, whose aspirations for college and a career in journalism clash with the ingrained racial prejudices of her community and family. Witnessing racial injustice at her father's store and the terrifying arrival of the KKK fuels her ambition. Inspired by local editor Mr. Horace Carter, Katie bravely writes an opinion piece questioning the Klan, sparking disapproval from family and friends. She seeks a different future and moves to Charlotte to live with her estranged grandparents, hoping for college support. She faces her grandmother's expectations and forms a complex bond with Lillian, a Black maid. A shared family secret, revealed through old china and a hidden compartment, links their histories. Amidst Charlotte's racial tensions, Katie's friendship with Lillian propels her quest for truth and self-discovery in a divided world.
Carol Baldwin’s characters are vividly drawn, from Katie's earnest desire for a different future and her internal conflict between loyalty and conviction to her father's quiet decency, her grandfather's overt racism, and her grandmother’s demanding expectations. Lillian is a compelling, intelligent, ambitious character navigating the limitations placed upon her by race and class. The setting of 1950s North Carolina is cleverly portrayed, and readers will notice the stark contrast between rural life and urban sophistication, and the ever-present shadow of racial segregation and the Klan. The central conflict is multifaceted: Katie's struggle for independence and education, the conflict of racial inequality, the fight for civil rights, and the hidden family secrets that intertwine. The first-person narrative voice gives the story an intimate tone, connecting the reader emotionally with the narrator. The themes of truth, prejudice, identity, and the power of words are explored through Katie's experiences and nascent journalism. Half-Truths is unique and original, and the skillful plotting and deft characterization give the book literary merit.
Half-Truths by Carol Baldwin introduces Katie, a fifteen-year-old girl in 1950s Tabor City, North Carolina, whose aspirations for college and a career in journalism clash with the ingrained racial prejudices of her community and family. Witnessing racial injustice at her father's store and the terrifying arrival of the KKK fuels her ambition. Inspired by local editor Mr. Horace Carter, Katie bravely writes an opinion piece questioning the Klan, sparking disapproval from family and friends. She seeks a different future and moves to Charlotte to live with her estranged grandparents, hoping for college support. She faces her grandmother's expectations and forms a complex bond with Lillian, a Black maid. A shared family secret, revealed through old china and a hidden compartment, links their histories. Amidst Charlotte's racial tensions, Katie's friendship with Lillian propels her quest for truth and self-discovery in a divided world.
Carol Baldwin’s characters are vividly drawn, from Katie's earnest desire for a different future and her internal conflict between loyalty and conviction to her father's quiet decency, her grandfather's overt racism, and her grandmother’s demanding expectations. Lillian is a compelling, intelligent, ambitious character navigating the limitations placed upon her by race and class. The setting of 1950s North Carolina is cleverly portrayed, and readers will notice the stark contrast between rural life and urban sophistication, and the ever-present shadow of racial segregation and the Klan. The central conflict is multifaceted: Katie's struggle for independence and education, the conflict of racial inequality, the fight for civil rights, and the hidden family secrets that intertwine. The first-person narrative voice gives the story an intimate tone, connecting the reader emotionally with the narrator. The themes of truth, prejudice, identity, and the power of words are explored through Katie's experiences and nascent journalism. Half-Truths is unique and original, and the skillful plotting and deft characterization give the book literary merit.
Recommend this book:
Whispers in the Forest
The Unforgettable Tales of Adeline Bigsby
Elizabeth Mowery
2025 Bronze Medal
248 Pages
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Young Adult - Coming of Age
Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite
Elizabeth Mowery's Whispers in the Forest revolves around Adeline Bigsby, a fifteen-year-old girl struggling with loss and guilt, who is unexpectedly thrust into an epic journey of self-discovery. Her life in Sunset Beach, NC, does a 180-degree turn in the blink of an eye. Adeline transforms from a cheerful teen into a grieving daughter when her father dies in a car accident in which she was the driver. Her mother relocates their small family, including Adeline and her younger sister, Rebecca, to a little town outside Asheville for a fresh start. Adeline struggles to find hope and is displeased with the move, the new home, and her new school. While walking into the forested area near her home one day, she meets a friendly elderly man who introduces her to a portal that leads to a new realm—a unique place Adeline can visit to let her adventurous spirit fly freely.
Whispers in the Forest is a poignant and compelling YA fantasy that will resonate with teens and adults alike. It is an engaging coming-of-age novel, similar to books like Harry Potter and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Elizabeth Mowery skillfully portrays heartening lessons of forgiveness and courage while exploring profound tropes like parental loss, found family, a strong female protagonist, and thrilling adventures. The author has a way of captivating her audience with descriptive and evocative prose. The lush forest setting is vividly described. Even the more emotive scenes, where Adeline struggles with her emotions of guilt and grief and the new move, are beautifully and realistically portrayed. The overall storyline has an alluring and flowing narrative packed with relatable (and even likable) characters. If you're in the mood for an epic YA fantasy tale that blends elements of suspense with the supernatural and masterful storytelling, Whispers in the Forest is a sure bet!
Elizabeth Mowery's Whispers in the Forest revolves around Adeline Bigsby, a fifteen-year-old girl struggling with loss and guilt, who is unexpectedly thrust into an epic journey of self-discovery. Her life in Sunset Beach, NC, does a 180-degree turn in the blink of an eye. Adeline transforms from a cheerful teen into a grieving daughter when her father dies in a car accident in which she was the driver. Her mother relocates their small family, including Adeline and her younger sister, Rebecca, to a little town outside Asheville for a fresh start. Adeline struggles to find hope and is displeased with the move, the new home, and her new school. While walking into the forested area near her home one day, she meets a friendly elderly man who introduces her to a portal that leads to a new realm—a unique place Adeline can visit to let her adventurous spirit fly freely.
Whispers in the Forest is a poignant and compelling YA fantasy that will resonate with teens and adults alike. It is an engaging coming-of-age novel, similar to books like Harry Potter and The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Elizabeth Mowery skillfully portrays heartening lessons of forgiveness and courage while exploring profound tropes like parental loss, found family, a strong female protagonist, and thrilling adventures. The author has a way of captivating her audience with descriptive and evocative prose. The lush forest setting is vividly described. Even the more emotive scenes, where Adeline struggles with her emotions of guilt and grief and the new move, are beautifully and realistically portrayed. The overall storyline has an alluring and flowing narrative packed with relatable (and even likable) characters. If you're in the mood for an epic YA fantasy tale that blends elements of suspense with the supernatural and masterful storytelling, Whispers in the Forest is a sure bet!
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