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Uglier
The Art of Being Ugly Book 2
Kelly Vincent
2024 Finalist
364 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Uglier explores the struggles and triumphs of Nic Summers, a young artist looking for a fresh start in a boarding school far from her conservative roots in Oklahoma City. In this second installment of The Art of Being Ugly series, Kelly Vincent explores the complexities of gender identity, acceptance, and self-discovery with an unflinching eye. The story captures the delicate balance of a teen's emotional world, where every moment feels like it could tip the scales toward growth or devastation. Nic's journey is inspiring and heart-wrenching as she navigates a new school environment, hoping to find solace in creativity and camaraderie. Upon checking in, she was referred to as a “he,” introducing the catalyst immediately, which I loved. While new friendships and supportive mentors offer glimmers of hope, a relentless bully and a personal misstep threaten to upend everything Nic has fought so hard to build.
Kelly Vincent's writing is earnest and empathetic, drawing readers into a teenager's internal and external conflicts trying to find her place in an often unkind world. While the book doesn’t shy away from heavy topics, it also doesn’t dwell in despair, offering a message of hope, understanding, and the importance of authenticity. Uglier is a compelling choice for readers looking for a contemporary YA novel that deals with identity, resilience, and the art of being true to oneself. It’s a touching reminder that even when the world seems harsh, there are always moments of understanding and acceptance. Vincent provides a realistic view of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
Uglier explores the struggles and triumphs of Nic Summers, a young artist looking for a fresh start in a boarding school far from her conservative roots in Oklahoma City. In this second installment of The Art of Being Ugly series, Kelly Vincent explores the complexities of gender identity, acceptance, and self-discovery with an unflinching eye. The story captures the delicate balance of a teen's emotional world, where every moment feels like it could tip the scales toward growth or devastation. Nic's journey is inspiring and heart-wrenching as she navigates a new school environment, hoping to find solace in creativity and camaraderie. Upon checking in, she was referred to as a “he,” introducing the catalyst immediately, which I loved. While new friendships and supportive mentors offer glimmers of hope, a relentless bully and a personal misstep threaten to upend everything Nic has fought so hard to build.
Kelly Vincent's writing is earnest and empathetic, drawing readers into a teenager's internal and external conflicts trying to find her place in an often unkind world. While the book doesn’t shy away from heavy topics, it also doesn’t dwell in despair, offering a message of hope, understanding, and the importance of authenticity. Uglier is a compelling choice for readers looking for a contemporary YA novel that deals with identity, resilience, and the art of being true to oneself. It’s a touching reminder that even when the world seems harsh, there are always moments of understanding and acceptance. Vincent provides a realistic view of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.
Recommend this book:
Fake Out
Seeing and Hearing Is No Longer Believing
Felicia Farber
2024 Honorable Mention
346 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Fake Out: Seeing and Hearing Is No Longer Believing is a work of fiction in the romance, interpersonal drama, and thriller genres. Although intended for mature YA and adult readers, it contains strong language throughout and sexual situations and references. Penned by author Felicia Farber, this romantic mystery novel tests the loyalty of a high school couple when artificial intelligence manipulates images to sabotage their relationship. David Woods faces repercussions as doctored images spread on social media, leading to a graphic video's circulation implicating him in misconduct with his ex, challenging his girlfriend Blair's trust amidst mounting school sanctions.
Author Felicia Farber has crafted a riveting dive into the complexities of teenage relationships and the dangers of digital manipulation that skillfully explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the impact of technology on modern romance. I was impressed by the commitment to character presentation and narrative flow, which grounds us in how unique David and Blair are as individuals and how their relationship dynamics work at different stages of the drama. As they grappled with the evidence and navigated the school's response, I found myself more and more drawn into their world, empathizing with their struggles and rooting for their relationship amidst the turmoil. Everything felt so relatable and closely narrated to give you every moment of suspicion and heartache, and the emotional arcs were fully realized for both characters as well as in their central relationship together. Farber's exploration of deepfakes and cyberbullying strikes a very relevant chord in today’s society, prompting reflection on the power of perception and the challenges of navigating love in the digital age. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Fake Out to fans of interesting and original romantic thriller dramas everywhere.
Fake Out: Seeing and Hearing Is No Longer Believing is a work of fiction in the romance, interpersonal drama, and thriller genres. Although intended for mature YA and adult readers, it contains strong language throughout and sexual situations and references. Penned by author Felicia Farber, this romantic mystery novel tests the loyalty of a high school couple when artificial intelligence manipulates images to sabotage their relationship. David Woods faces repercussions as doctored images spread on social media, leading to a graphic video's circulation implicating him in misconduct with his ex, challenging his girlfriend Blair's trust amidst mounting school sanctions.
Author Felicia Farber has crafted a riveting dive into the complexities of teenage relationships and the dangers of digital manipulation that skillfully explores themes of trust, betrayal, and the impact of technology on modern romance. I was impressed by the commitment to character presentation and narrative flow, which grounds us in how unique David and Blair are as individuals and how their relationship dynamics work at different stages of the drama. As they grappled with the evidence and navigated the school's response, I found myself more and more drawn into their world, empathizing with their struggles and rooting for their relationship amidst the turmoil. Everything felt so relatable and closely narrated to give you every moment of suspicion and heartache, and the emotional arcs were fully realized for both characters as well as in their central relationship together. Farber's exploration of deepfakes and cyberbullying strikes a very relevant chord in today’s society, prompting reflection on the power of perception and the challenges of navigating love in the digital age. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Fake Out to fans of interesting and original romantic thriller dramas everywhere.
Recommend this book:
Girl Under Glass
Ginny Rorby
2024 Bronze Medal
257 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by Jennie More for Readers' Favorite
Girl Under Glass by Ginny Rorby is the story of a thirteen-year-old girl living with her alcoholic mother and assuming adult responsibilities of caring for their home and managing the bills. From the get-go, the author depicts Kelsey as an outsider when she steals a flower for her mother, gets arrested, and the judge sentences her to community service instead of juvenile detention. The judge says that this is her last warning. When Kelsey meets the seemingly crazy old botanist, Hobby, whom the judge assigned her to help at his greenhouse for her community service, her life takes a turn. Kelsey is caught between Hobby's age-old wisdom about plants and the mumblings of a constantly drunken mother. Things can go either way for Kelsey, but she gets to choose.
Girl Under Glass by Ginny Rorby is an absorbing, heartwarming, inspirational, and beautifully written book. At every crossroad, I wondered what choice Kelsey would make because it could go either way. With everything counting against her, one almost expected her to make the wrong choice, but throughout this narrative, Kelsey surprised me. Kelsey’s character creates a lot of suspense throughout. Thoughtfully written and skilfully yet subtly delving into the deepest, rawest, and often conflicting emotions children have about their parents, Rorby developed a stunning narrative that captivated my attention. I could not wait to pick up where I left off. This book is undoubtedly one of the best I've read, and I can't wait to read more from this author.
Girl Under Glass by Ginny Rorby is the story of a thirteen-year-old girl living with her alcoholic mother and assuming adult responsibilities of caring for their home and managing the bills. From the get-go, the author depicts Kelsey as an outsider when she steals a flower for her mother, gets arrested, and the judge sentences her to community service instead of juvenile detention. The judge says that this is her last warning. When Kelsey meets the seemingly crazy old botanist, Hobby, whom the judge assigned her to help at his greenhouse for her community service, her life takes a turn. Kelsey is caught between Hobby's age-old wisdom about plants and the mumblings of a constantly drunken mother. Things can go either way for Kelsey, but she gets to choose.
Girl Under Glass by Ginny Rorby is an absorbing, heartwarming, inspirational, and beautifully written book. At every crossroad, I wondered what choice Kelsey would make because it could go either way. With everything counting against her, one almost expected her to make the wrong choice, but throughout this narrative, Kelsey surprised me. Kelsey’s character creates a lot of suspense throughout. Thoughtfully written and skilfully yet subtly delving into the deepest, rawest, and often conflicting emotions children have about their parents, Rorby developed a stunning narrative that captivated my attention. I could not wait to pick up where I left off. This book is undoubtedly one of the best I've read, and I can't wait to read more from this author.
Recommend this book:
Woodland
Family Portrait
Art Lionson
2024 Silver Medal
588 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Woodland: Family Portrait is a work of fiction in the urban science fiction, adventure, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience and was penned by author Art Lionson. In the year 2043, the Woodland brothers, already grappling with the challenges of urban life, face an unexpected crisis when their younger sister, Mia, falls seriously ill. Seeking solutions, they unwittingly step into a complex web of events triggered by a seemingly simple job. As they navigate the intricacies of their choices, a hidden undercurrent of manipulation and inevitability begins to unravel. The story highlights their unyielding devotion to core human values amidst adversity, as well as the unwavering friendship of their loyal dog, Spark.
Author Art Lionson has crafted a highly compelling work that really taps into its emotional core of family bonds and the lengths we would go to for the ones we love. The narrative weaves together action-packed sequences with vivid cinematic descriptions, unexpected twists, and realistically narrated human dramas, all centered around themes of justice, camaraderie, and resilience. Lionson's storytelling captures the essence of human emotions, depicting the Woodland brothers' journey through pain, loss, and anxiety. I especially enjoyed the dialogue exchanges between the brothers, each showcasing unique attitudes to the issue at hand but in compatible harmony to get the job done. The book explores the bonds of family, friendship, and the pursuit of justice in a gripping narrative that holds readers' attention until the very last page. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Woodland: Family Portrait to fans of action-packed YA urban drama everywhere.
Woodland: Family Portrait is a work of fiction in the urban science fiction, adventure, and interpersonal drama subgenres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience and was penned by author Art Lionson. In the year 2043, the Woodland brothers, already grappling with the challenges of urban life, face an unexpected crisis when their younger sister, Mia, falls seriously ill. Seeking solutions, they unwittingly step into a complex web of events triggered by a seemingly simple job. As they navigate the intricacies of their choices, a hidden undercurrent of manipulation and inevitability begins to unravel. The story highlights their unyielding devotion to core human values amidst adversity, as well as the unwavering friendship of their loyal dog, Spark.
Author Art Lionson has crafted a highly compelling work that really taps into its emotional core of family bonds and the lengths we would go to for the ones we love. The narrative weaves together action-packed sequences with vivid cinematic descriptions, unexpected twists, and realistically narrated human dramas, all centered around themes of justice, camaraderie, and resilience. Lionson's storytelling captures the essence of human emotions, depicting the Woodland brothers' journey through pain, loss, and anxiety. I especially enjoyed the dialogue exchanges between the brothers, each showcasing unique attitudes to the issue at hand but in compatible harmony to get the job done. The book explores the bonds of family, friendship, and the pursuit of justice in a gripping narrative that holds readers' attention until the very last page. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Woodland: Family Portrait to fans of action-packed YA urban drama everywhere.
Recommend this book:
The Cusser Club
A Tawdry, Titillating Texas Tale
Randall Northcutt
2024 Gold Medal
328 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
The Cusser Club: A Tawdry, Titillating Texas Tale is a work of fiction in the coming-of-age, interpersonal drama, and Southern genres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience but contains some era-appropriate content that modern readers may find challenging. Penned by author Randall Northcutt, this gritty and realistic novel is set in 1969 in East Texas. Teddy Nutscalder and his friends Mickey O’Dell and Tommy Crum embark on a dangerous adventure that entangles them in a dark conspiracy, revealing the troubled lives and secrets of those around them. The plot is immersed in a turbulent era and weaves a tale of strong teenage friendship against a dark backdrop of abuse, conspiracy, and moral dilemmas.
Teddy Nutscalder’s poignant narrative, set against the harsh realities of his abusive home life and the toxic environment of Dix Knob, is constructed to pull you into his world on his terms with no holds barred. The portrayal of friendship and loyalty in the face of adversity was profoundly moving and a huge highlight of the work for me personally, showing the author’s immense talent for creating realistic people with clear attitudinal choices and emotional arcs that run deep. The novel’s gritty realism and vivid imagery transported me to another time, evoking both nostalgia and unease with strong atmospheric language that achieved the mood of each scene well. Despite its raw and occasionally controversial language, the story’s authenticity and emotional depth kept me captivated until the final page. Overall, The Cusser Club is a compelling testament to the power of storytelling that I would not hesitate to recommend.
The Cusser Club: A Tawdry, Titillating Texas Tale is a work of fiction in the coming-of-age, interpersonal drama, and Southern genres. It is intended for the young adult reading audience but contains some era-appropriate content that modern readers may find challenging. Penned by author Randall Northcutt, this gritty and realistic novel is set in 1969 in East Texas. Teddy Nutscalder and his friends Mickey O’Dell and Tommy Crum embark on a dangerous adventure that entangles them in a dark conspiracy, revealing the troubled lives and secrets of those around them. The plot is immersed in a turbulent era and weaves a tale of strong teenage friendship against a dark backdrop of abuse, conspiracy, and moral dilemmas.
Teddy Nutscalder’s poignant narrative, set against the harsh realities of his abusive home life and the toxic environment of Dix Knob, is constructed to pull you into his world on his terms with no holds barred. The portrayal of friendship and loyalty in the face of adversity was profoundly moving and a huge highlight of the work for me personally, showing the author’s immense talent for creating realistic people with clear attitudinal choices and emotional arcs that run deep. The novel’s gritty realism and vivid imagery transported me to another time, evoking both nostalgia and unease with strong atmospheric language that achieved the mood of each scene well. Despite its raw and occasionally controversial language, the story’s authenticity and emotional depth kept me captivated until the final page. Overall, The Cusser Club is a compelling testament to the power of storytelling that I would not hesitate to recommend.
Recommend this book:
Sid Johnson and the Phantom Slave Stealer
Frances Schoonmaker
2023 Finalist
352 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by Alex Ndirangu for Readers' Favorite
It is 1855 in Illinois, and tensions between slave abolitionists and those who were pro-slavery are at an all-time high. Even though this is a free state, bounty hunters get paid to retrieve people who have escaped. Sid Johnson, a young boy, is awakened by the sound of a gunshot near his family's farm. He makes his way downstairs, where he overhears his mother and father discussing Lula, a woman injured by a bounty hunter's bullet. Could this be related to the gunshot that had startled him moments ago? Later, Sid finds out that his parents are concealing people running from bounty hunters during the day and helping them escape the chains and torment they would otherwise endure. Young Sid is aware that this is against the law and will result in his parents' arrest, leading him to question whether they are doing the right thing. Shortly after, Sid encounters Lula's son Elijah. No sooner has he discovered Elijah hiding by the haystack when two bounty hunters arrive with warrants to arrest Elijah and Lula and conduct a thorough search! Given his young age, will Sid choose what is legally correct or what is morally justifiable? Pick up a copy of Frances Schoonmaker's Sid Johnson and the Phantom Slave Stealer to find out.
What makes this historical tale a success are Frances Schoonmaker's solid characterizations and her superb plot. Her descriptive writing style made her characters and settings seem plausible, demonstrating impressive imagination and writing abilities. From Sid's mother removing the singing kettle from the fire and filling two big, gray-speckled enamel pans with hot water, to Serena the family cat sprawled in the hayloft, I conjured up a beautiful world that I did not want to leave. The tale developed into a lengthy work of well-constructed suspense. I enjoyed the fact that the plot is character-driven. There were no passive characters in the plot, not even Serena the cat, and all the characters contributed significantly to the plot's advancement. This element ensured that the story never dragged. Sid Johnson and the Phantom Slave Stealer will go down as the best historical novel I have ever read.
It is 1855 in Illinois, and tensions between slave abolitionists and those who were pro-slavery are at an all-time high. Even though this is a free state, bounty hunters get paid to retrieve people who have escaped. Sid Johnson, a young boy, is awakened by the sound of a gunshot near his family's farm. He makes his way downstairs, where he overhears his mother and father discussing Lula, a woman injured by a bounty hunter's bullet. Could this be related to the gunshot that had startled him moments ago? Later, Sid finds out that his parents are concealing people running from bounty hunters during the day and helping them escape the chains and torment they would otherwise endure. Young Sid is aware that this is against the law and will result in his parents' arrest, leading him to question whether they are doing the right thing. Shortly after, Sid encounters Lula's son Elijah. No sooner has he discovered Elijah hiding by the haystack when two bounty hunters arrive with warrants to arrest Elijah and Lula and conduct a thorough search! Given his young age, will Sid choose what is legally correct or what is morally justifiable? Pick up a copy of Frances Schoonmaker's Sid Johnson and the Phantom Slave Stealer to find out.
What makes this historical tale a success are Frances Schoonmaker's solid characterizations and her superb plot. Her descriptive writing style made her characters and settings seem plausible, demonstrating impressive imagination and writing abilities. From Sid's mother removing the singing kettle from the fire and filling two big, gray-speckled enamel pans with hot water, to Serena the family cat sprawled in the hayloft, I conjured up a beautiful world that I did not want to leave. The tale developed into a lengthy work of well-constructed suspense. I enjoyed the fact that the plot is character-driven. There were no passive characters in the plot, not even Serena the cat, and all the characters contributed significantly to the plot's advancement. This element ensured that the story never dragged. Sid Johnson and the Phantom Slave Stealer will go down as the best historical novel I have ever read.
Recommend this book:
SPVCE
a. w. karen
2023 Honorable Mention
502 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
SPVCE is a work of fiction in the science fiction and adventure subgenres. The work is aimed at the young adult readership and contains some mild explicit language, and was penned by A. W. Karen. This superb space-age adventure tale focuses on the budding career aspirations of protagonist Maci Layton, who is part of a universal program to train young people to be space cadets, preparing for a future beyond our broken planet. So begins a tale of combating anxiety and struggling with one’s place in society, especially in a society where all seems perfect, but the apparent perfection is masking a world on the brink of disaster.
A. W. Karen offers a bittersweet but apt allegory for the emotional state of our time, where the fate of the planet seems fragile indeed, and moments of optimism and inspiration are rare for the younger generation as they face the future. The close narrative centered on Maci delivers these delicate emotions perfectly, with dialogue and an atmosphere of high emotional intelligence. The work is well-poised to be accessible to young adult readers whilst also handling some more adult emotions and complex topics. The science-fiction setting holds up an exciting and adventurous mirror to our contemporary world, but without losing the core themes and feelings that make it so relevant for right now. I would recommend SPVCE to readers who enjoy sophisticated young adult works and emotionally conscious, character-led science fiction that doesn’t hold back.
SPVCE is a work of fiction in the science fiction and adventure subgenres. The work is aimed at the young adult readership and contains some mild explicit language, and was penned by A. W. Karen. This superb space-age adventure tale focuses on the budding career aspirations of protagonist Maci Layton, who is part of a universal program to train young people to be space cadets, preparing for a future beyond our broken planet. So begins a tale of combating anxiety and struggling with one’s place in society, especially in a society where all seems perfect, but the apparent perfection is masking a world on the brink of disaster.
A. W. Karen offers a bittersweet but apt allegory for the emotional state of our time, where the fate of the planet seems fragile indeed, and moments of optimism and inspiration are rare for the younger generation as they face the future. The close narrative centered on Maci delivers these delicate emotions perfectly, with dialogue and an atmosphere of high emotional intelligence. The work is well-poised to be accessible to young adult readers whilst also handling some more adult emotions and complex topics. The science-fiction setting holds up an exciting and adventurous mirror to our contemporary world, but without losing the core themes and feelings that make it so relevant for right now. I would recommend SPVCE to readers who enjoy sophisticated young adult works and emotionally conscious, character-led science fiction that doesn’t hold back.
Recommend this book:
Through the Witches Stone
Scott A. Johnson
2023 Bronze Medal
333 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Through the Witches Stone by Scott A. Johnson introduces Hadley, who wasn’t so sure about spending the entire summer with Grandma. Isolated, out in the woods, with no cell service, no television, and no neighbors, it sounded, quite simply, bleak, not to mention boring. It would just be her grandparents, her twin brothers, and herself. Other than chores, what could she find to do? Then Grandma broke the news with a blunt statement: "Didn't anyone tell you that you come from a long line of witches?" That’s when the excitement began. Who needs modern technology when you have witchcraft, magic, changelings, magical creatures, and a forest full of ominous beings? She and her brothers were warned that it was not safe out there, but Hadley didn’t listen and her adventure in the forest threatened all she held dear. Would she ever be able to trust what she sees as real?
Scott A. Johnson’s middle-grade novel Through the Witches Stone is an adventure like no other. Full of magic, fantasy, unbelievable creatures, and a young girl trying to find her place in the world, this story has a lot to attract young readers. The plot follows Hadley’s arrival at Grandma’s, her discovery that she’s a witch, her lessons in magic, and her dangerous treks into the forbidden forest. This all built up to the main threat, the one that could well take away her family and her life - her real life. Descriptive narrative is used effectively and dialogue is believable and helps set the mood and develop both the characters and the plot. This is a real page-turner and readers will be anxious to read more, so hopefully there’s another book in the works, one that will further follow Hadley’s magic training as well as that of her younger brothers.
Through the Witches Stone by Scott A. Johnson introduces Hadley, who wasn’t so sure about spending the entire summer with Grandma. Isolated, out in the woods, with no cell service, no television, and no neighbors, it sounded, quite simply, bleak, not to mention boring. It would just be her grandparents, her twin brothers, and herself. Other than chores, what could she find to do? Then Grandma broke the news with a blunt statement: "Didn't anyone tell you that you come from a long line of witches?" That’s when the excitement began. Who needs modern technology when you have witchcraft, magic, changelings, magical creatures, and a forest full of ominous beings? She and her brothers were warned that it was not safe out there, but Hadley didn’t listen and her adventure in the forest threatened all she held dear. Would she ever be able to trust what she sees as real?
Scott A. Johnson’s middle-grade novel Through the Witches Stone is an adventure like no other. Full of magic, fantasy, unbelievable creatures, and a young girl trying to find her place in the world, this story has a lot to attract young readers. The plot follows Hadley’s arrival at Grandma’s, her discovery that she’s a witch, her lessons in magic, and her dangerous treks into the forbidden forest. This all built up to the main threat, the one that could well take away her family and her life - her real life. Descriptive narrative is used effectively and dialogue is believable and helps set the mood and develop both the characters and the plot. This is a real page-turner and readers will be anxious to read more, so hopefully there’s another book in the works, one that will further follow Hadley’s magic training as well as that of her younger brothers.
Recommend this book:
There's No Basketball on Mars
Craig Leener
2023 Silver Medal
348 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
There’s No Basketball on Mars is a work of fiction in the adventure subgenre. It is aimed at young adult readers and was penned by author Craig Leener. The book follows maths savant Lawrence Tuckerman, an autistic young man whose best friend is leaving for Kansas to pursue his dream of playing basketball professionally. As Lawrence settles into a new (and less social) life, he dreams of one day visiting Mars and a mission with intergalactic stakes is presented to him. Whilst his unique mind makes him the perfect candidate for the mission, it also makes being part of a team a challenge.
I often find that depicting autistic characters authentically and respectfully is a challenge for authors who don’t have autism themselves, as from the outside the way of looking at the world can seem quite alien. Fortunately for readers, author Craig Leener demonstrates an understanding of the condition that is delightful to read and feels like a natural part of Lawrence’s characterization rather than a gimmick. Despite being a spin-off from a trilogy of books about Lawrence’s best friend Zeke, this narrative stands on its own and is accessible to those unfamiliar with the series. I thoroughly enjoyed the themes of pursuing your dreams and taking scary opportunities if they help you move forward in life. There’s No Basketball on Mars realizes these ideas beautifully with a compelling narrative about dynamic characters who each feel grounded even when they’re far from the ground. Overall, the novel is an exciting adventure about a fun and relatable hero that I would happily recommend to all readers.
There’s No Basketball on Mars is a work of fiction in the adventure subgenre. It is aimed at young adult readers and was penned by author Craig Leener. The book follows maths savant Lawrence Tuckerman, an autistic young man whose best friend is leaving for Kansas to pursue his dream of playing basketball professionally. As Lawrence settles into a new (and less social) life, he dreams of one day visiting Mars and a mission with intergalactic stakes is presented to him. Whilst his unique mind makes him the perfect candidate for the mission, it also makes being part of a team a challenge.
I often find that depicting autistic characters authentically and respectfully is a challenge for authors who don’t have autism themselves, as from the outside the way of looking at the world can seem quite alien. Fortunately for readers, author Craig Leener demonstrates an understanding of the condition that is delightful to read and feels like a natural part of Lawrence’s characterization rather than a gimmick. Despite being a spin-off from a trilogy of books about Lawrence’s best friend Zeke, this narrative stands on its own and is accessible to those unfamiliar with the series. I thoroughly enjoyed the themes of pursuing your dreams and taking scary opportunities if they help you move forward in life. There’s No Basketball on Mars realizes these ideas beautifully with a compelling narrative about dynamic characters who each feel grounded even when they’re far from the ground. Overall, the novel is an exciting adventure about a fun and relatable hero that I would happily recommend to all readers.
Recommend this book:
Air Boat
Love is an Adventure
Jacek Waliszewski
2023 Gold Medal
205 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Air Boat: Love is an Adventure is a work of fiction in the romance and adventure subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience and was penned by Jacek Waliszewski. In this novella-length work, we find ourselves following the path of early love and courtship with all of its heady, giddy romantic qualities, ups and downs, and magical sentiments. The tale follows Luke and Stella on this journey, delivering snippets of their past that inform their present decisions, and showcasing how they find love with one another in a deeply meaningful way, despite the shadows of their respective pasts.
Readers seeking a tender and heartfelt love story are certain to adore this novella, drinking in every scene with a warm heart and a constant smile on their faces. One of the things I especially enjoyed about this read was Jacek Waliszewski’s unique flair for narrative and the unusual quality of his words that keep your imagination aflame. From the cinematic quality of every detail in the setting through to the attention-to-detail in the expression of how the characters react and move, the novella begins to feel like a movie playing out in your mind, gathering you deeper and deeper into its enjoyable plot. Luke is an especially interesting character, steeped in trauma and haunted by past experiences, but seeking healing and wanting to be an improved man for Stella and their future together. I would heartily recommend Air Boat for romance fans seeking a cozy but emotionally charged short read.
Air Boat: Love is an Adventure is a work of fiction in the romance and adventure subgenres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience and was penned by Jacek Waliszewski. In this novella-length work, we find ourselves following the path of early love and courtship with all of its heady, giddy romantic qualities, ups and downs, and magical sentiments. The tale follows Luke and Stella on this journey, delivering snippets of their past that inform their present decisions, and showcasing how they find love with one another in a deeply meaningful way, despite the shadows of their respective pasts.
Readers seeking a tender and heartfelt love story are certain to adore this novella, drinking in every scene with a warm heart and a constant smile on their faces. One of the things I especially enjoyed about this read was Jacek Waliszewski’s unique flair for narrative and the unusual quality of his words that keep your imagination aflame. From the cinematic quality of every detail in the setting through to the attention-to-detail in the expression of how the characters react and move, the novella begins to feel like a movie playing out in your mind, gathering you deeper and deeper into its enjoyable plot. Luke is an especially interesting character, steeped in trauma and haunted by past experiences, but seeking healing and wanting to be an improved man for Stella and their future together. I would heartily recommend Air Boat for romance fans seeking a cozy but emotionally charged short read.
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