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The Neverborn
A Young Adult Dystopian Novel
B.B. Brighton
2024 Finalist
305 Pages
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Young Adult - Social Issues
Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
The Neverborn by B. B. Brighton is a gripping dystopian novel set in the year 2048, where every newborn receives a chip containing their social security number and identification. Kekoa, however, is a Neverborn—saved by an abortionist without his mother's knowledge or consent. Raised secretly on the island of Kauai, Kekoa's life takes a dramatic turn when he discovers his true origins during a pig hunt in a remote canyon. To protect the couple who raised him, he must flee into a world he is ill-prepared for, having only been trained in wilderness survival. Faced with the dangers of thieves and murderers who wish to exploit him, Kekoa grapples with the choice of becoming a fugitive or fighting in a brutal war. His journey demands immense courage and faith as he strives to carve out a life and find love in a perilous world.
B. B. Brighton's The Neverborn excels in weaving a taut, compelling narrative that explores profound themes of identity, survival, and resilience. The plot is richly layered, combining intense action with deep emotional undertones, ensuring readers remain engrossed from start to finish. Kekoa is a complex and relatable protagonist, whose internal struggles and external challenges are portrayed with depth and sensitivity. The supporting characters add further richness to the story, each bringing their own unique perspectives and emotional weight. The world-building is exceptional, vividly depicting a dystopian society where technology and human rights intersect in unsettling ways. The harsh realities of Kekoa's world are rendered with striking detail, immersing readers in his journey. The Neverborn is a standout in dystopian fiction, offering a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching tale that will resonate with fans of the genre.
The Neverborn by B. B. Brighton is a gripping dystopian novel set in the year 2048, where every newborn receives a chip containing their social security number and identification. Kekoa, however, is a Neverborn—saved by an abortionist without his mother's knowledge or consent. Raised secretly on the island of Kauai, Kekoa's life takes a dramatic turn when he discovers his true origins during a pig hunt in a remote canyon. To protect the couple who raised him, he must flee into a world he is ill-prepared for, having only been trained in wilderness survival. Faced with the dangers of thieves and murderers who wish to exploit him, Kekoa grapples with the choice of becoming a fugitive or fighting in a brutal war. His journey demands immense courage and faith as he strives to carve out a life and find love in a perilous world.
B. B. Brighton's The Neverborn excels in weaving a taut, compelling narrative that explores profound themes of identity, survival, and resilience. The plot is richly layered, combining intense action with deep emotional undertones, ensuring readers remain engrossed from start to finish. Kekoa is a complex and relatable protagonist, whose internal struggles and external challenges are portrayed with depth and sensitivity. The supporting characters add further richness to the story, each bringing their own unique perspectives and emotional weight. The world-building is exceptional, vividly depicting a dystopian society where technology and human rights intersect in unsettling ways. The harsh realities of Kekoa's world are rendered with striking detail, immersing readers in his journey. The Neverborn is a standout in dystopian fiction, offering a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching tale that will resonate with fans of the genre.
Recommend this book:
Before We Move On
Sally Reiser Simon
2024 Honorable Mention
278 Pages
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Young Adult - Social Issues
Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite
In Before We Move On, Sally Reiser Simon demonstrates what might happen if we leave our loved ones before we say goodbye. Thirteen-year-old Kiki loves art, drama, and a boy named Jesse. Other than drama camp and stolen moments, they don't really interact, but Jesse's friend, Ralphie, picks up on the chemistry between them. A tragic accident leaves many people in the small town bereft, guilty, and searching for answers. Jesse is still dealing with his parents' deaths and acclimating to his new town and guardian when he loses Kiki. He and Kiki's mom struggle to accept the circumstances and continue with their lives. Kiki's spirit is not settled either, and she has work to do before she can move on. The author provides her reasons for writing the book and supplies book club questions at the end.
Sally Reiser Simon knows how to build characters who will break your heart and inspire you. While you read the tragic scenes as they unfold, you are reminded of the innocence of youth and the way one small moment can destroy a lifetime of chances. At the same time, love and the many ways it can be expressed echo across the pages. As the story is told over a number of years at the turn of the century, many readers may experience nostalgia as they think about their experiences from 1998 to 2002. Grey D' Andrea's images help readers understand the geography of the town and illustrate pivotal moments in the novel. Whether you're a reader who enjoys young adult romances or a member of a book club that likes to share important points, you will love Before We Move On.
In Before We Move On, Sally Reiser Simon demonstrates what might happen if we leave our loved ones before we say goodbye. Thirteen-year-old Kiki loves art, drama, and a boy named Jesse. Other than drama camp and stolen moments, they don't really interact, but Jesse's friend, Ralphie, picks up on the chemistry between them. A tragic accident leaves many people in the small town bereft, guilty, and searching for answers. Jesse is still dealing with his parents' deaths and acclimating to his new town and guardian when he loses Kiki. He and Kiki's mom struggle to accept the circumstances and continue with their lives. Kiki's spirit is not settled either, and she has work to do before she can move on. The author provides her reasons for writing the book and supplies book club questions at the end.
Sally Reiser Simon knows how to build characters who will break your heart and inspire you. While you read the tragic scenes as they unfold, you are reminded of the innocence of youth and the way one small moment can destroy a lifetime of chances. At the same time, love and the many ways it can be expressed echo across the pages. As the story is told over a number of years at the turn of the century, many readers may experience nostalgia as they think about their experiences from 1998 to 2002. Grey D' Andrea's images help readers understand the geography of the town and illustrate pivotal moments in the novel. Whether you're a reader who enjoys young adult romances or a member of a book club that likes to share important points, you will love Before We Move On.
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Not My Fault
S.B. Frasca
2024 Bronze Medal
272 Pages
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Young Adult - Social Issues
Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite
In Not My Fault, S.B. Frasca tells the story of Hy, an underprivileged sophomore student who sees the unfairness and cruelty in her community. Unlike some of the other students her age, Hy chooses to express her feelings through her art, adopting a “Not My Fault” tag. As she communicates her emotions through her work, from graffiti on a bandshell to a cover piece on hate speech, she begins to transform, morphing her physical appearance to represent her artistic tendencies. A terrible accident, unfortunate death, and a reunion with a past family member threaten her new mental and emotional image, but Hy embraces her unlikely friends and art to cope with her situation.
S.B. Frasca has written a book that covers the emotional highs and lows of every teen, whether their flaws are on the surface or covered by expensive clothes and status. Whether they’ve been the bully or the subject of ridicule, readers will sympathize with Hy and love the descriptions of her art pieces. As her character grows, so does her art and her satisfaction as she reveals it. Even though the artist’s identity is unknown, the community supports Hy’s work and extends their appreciation to others on social media. Despite her notoriety, Hy is humble and reflects noble qualities, even though she could sink to the level of her teenage bullies. Not My Fault is a great selection for young adults and teens who may need encouragement after they’ve been oppressed or for experienced readers who enjoy all-inclusive young adult selections.
In Not My Fault, S.B. Frasca tells the story of Hy, an underprivileged sophomore student who sees the unfairness and cruelty in her community. Unlike some of the other students her age, Hy chooses to express her feelings through her art, adopting a “Not My Fault” tag. As she communicates her emotions through her work, from graffiti on a bandshell to a cover piece on hate speech, she begins to transform, morphing her physical appearance to represent her artistic tendencies. A terrible accident, unfortunate death, and a reunion with a past family member threaten her new mental and emotional image, but Hy embraces her unlikely friends and art to cope with her situation.
S.B. Frasca has written a book that covers the emotional highs and lows of every teen, whether their flaws are on the surface or covered by expensive clothes and status. Whether they’ve been the bully or the subject of ridicule, readers will sympathize with Hy and love the descriptions of her art pieces. As her character grows, so does her art and her satisfaction as she reveals it. Even though the artist’s identity is unknown, the community supports Hy’s work and extends their appreciation to others on social media. Despite her notoriety, Hy is humble and reflects noble qualities, even though she could sink to the level of her teenage bullies. Not My Fault is a great selection for young adults and teens who may need encouragement after they’ve been oppressed or for experienced readers who enjoy all-inclusive young adult selections.
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 by Winnie D Pagora, the survivor is Tina Lauren, a student about to graduate from high school who is attacked by a random stranger. She's brave enough to stand up to him but to her utter shock finds that not everyone believes her version of events. Instead, she gets branded as a liar and attenti...){kind=link}
Unclutter
A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice Book 1)
Winnie D Pagora
2024 Silver Medal
328 Pages
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Young Adult - Social Issues
Reviewed by Danelle Petersen for Readers' Favorite
In Unclutter: A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora, the survivor is Tina Lauren, a student about to graduate from high school who is attacked by a random stranger. She's brave enough to stand up to him but to her utter shock finds that not everyone believes her version of events. Instead, she gets branded as a liar and attention-seeking brat and is soon shunned by her peers. Worst of all, her attacker isn't done with her yet, always making sure that he's one step ahead of her, going to extremes to make her pay for exposing him. As if that isn't enough, long-buried memories from her past keep threatening to surface. But Tina Lauren has had enough and if her perpetrator thinks he can destroy her, she's got news for him.
Unclutter: A Survivor's Story is for everyone who has ever been abused or victimized either by those closest to them or persons holding positions of power. The novel bravely acknowledges that there are too many victims out there who would prefer to suffer in silence and rather suppress their pain than face it. Some are afraid to speak out because of fear of rejection or blame, and it needs to stop. I loved the way that Winnie D Pagora gave each character their struggles to overcome and described the support system they formed for Tina. That is what every survivor needs. This was an inspiring read, filled with many memorable lessons.
In Unclutter: A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora, the survivor is Tina Lauren, a student about to graduate from high school who is attacked by a random stranger. She's brave enough to stand up to him but to her utter shock finds that not everyone believes her version of events. Instead, she gets branded as a liar and attention-seeking brat and is soon shunned by her peers. Worst of all, her attacker isn't done with her yet, always making sure that he's one step ahead of her, going to extremes to make her pay for exposing him. As if that isn't enough, long-buried memories from her past keep threatening to surface. But Tina Lauren has had enough and if her perpetrator thinks he can destroy her, she's got news for him.
Unclutter: A Survivor's Story is for everyone who has ever been abused or victimized either by those closest to them or persons holding positions of power. The novel bravely acknowledges that there are too many victims out there who would prefer to suffer in silence and rather suppress their pain than face it. Some are afraid to speak out because of fear of rejection or blame, and it needs to stop. I loved the way that Winnie D Pagora gave each character their struggles to overcome and described the support system they formed for Tina. That is what every survivor needs. This was an inspiring read, filled with many memorable lessons.
Recommend this book:
Breksta's Academy
Natasha Quay
2024 Gold Medal
352 Pages
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Young Adult - Social Issues
Reviewed by Jaqueline Neves for Readers' Favorite
Breksta's Academy by Natasha Quay is a captivating tale that begins with Breksta Vilkas' serene childhood abruptly disrupted by the ominous arrival of soldiers. Fleeing her home with her mother, Breksta is thrust into the harsh reality of the Academy, a place governed by cruelty and mystery. As Breksta navigates the challenges of this new life, a deep bond forms between her and her roommate Hestia, both yearning for freedom. The story takes an unexpected turn with a deadly disaster, unraveling secrets from Breksta's past that tie her destiny to the fate of the entire world. Quay masterfully weaves a narrative filled with suspense, intrigue, and a touch of magic, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Natasha Quay demonstrates exceptional skill in crafting a compelling plot that unfolds at a perfect pace, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. The action sequences are vividly depicted, creating a palpable sense of tension and urgency. The characters are well-developed, and their evolving relationships add depth to the narrative. Themes of identity, freedom, and sacrifice are expertly explored, enriching the story with profound meaning. Quay's writing is both evocative and seamless, seamlessly blending the fantastical elements with relatable human experiences. Breksta's Academy takes readers on an utterly mesmerizing and enchanting journey, transcending mere entertainment to intricately weave a narrative that not only captivates but also leaves a lasting impact, eloquently showcasing the author's prowess in the art of skillfully delivering a meticulously crafted and emotionally resonant story that resonates deeply with the audience's emotions and contemplations.
Breksta's Academy by Natasha Quay is a captivating tale that begins with Breksta Vilkas' serene childhood abruptly disrupted by the ominous arrival of soldiers. Fleeing her home with her mother, Breksta is thrust into the harsh reality of the Academy, a place governed by cruelty and mystery. As Breksta navigates the challenges of this new life, a deep bond forms between her and her roommate Hestia, both yearning for freedom. The story takes an unexpected turn with a deadly disaster, unraveling secrets from Breksta's past that tie her destiny to the fate of the entire world. Quay masterfully weaves a narrative filled with suspense, intrigue, and a touch of magic, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
Natasha Quay demonstrates exceptional skill in crafting a compelling plot that unfolds at a perfect pace, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. The action sequences are vividly depicted, creating a palpable sense of tension and urgency. The characters are well-developed, and their evolving relationships add depth to the narrative. Themes of identity, freedom, and sacrifice are expertly explored, enriching the story with profound meaning. Quay's writing is both evocative and seamless, seamlessly blending the fantastical elements with relatable human experiences. Breksta's Academy takes readers on an utterly mesmerizing and enchanting journey, transcending mere entertainment to intricately weave a narrative that not only captivates but also leaves a lasting impact, eloquently showcasing the author's prowess in the art of skillfully delivering a meticulously crafted and emotionally resonant story that resonates deeply with the audience's emotions and contemplations.
Recommend this book:
Oversight
Dennis Batchelder
2023 Finalist
354 Pages
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Young Adult - Social Issues
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Oversight is a work of fiction in the adventure and supernatural subgenres. It is suitable for the young adult reading audience and contains mild scenes of violence but nothing too graphic. In this work penned by author Dennis Batchelder, we join our protagonist Zelly at a tumultuous time in her life. Aged seventeen, Zelly knows she has two more years to survive until she can ascend to power in the ancient order of Soul Identity, an organization that deals with past lives and memories. But when Zelly discovers that her closest friend Ying might be trying to kill her before her ascension, a journey into her own previous lives reveals even more shocking revelations, but her past might just help her survive the future.
Author Dennis Batchelder has crafted a highly original concept for this thrilling contemporary supernatural novel, so much so that the past-life elements blend into the realistic emotional plotline seamlessly. It’s easy to believe in the world Zelly inhabits, and YA readers will find themselves immediately immersed and gripped by her complex relationship with Ying and the pressures and gifts that Soul Identity brings to her life. I for one found that the dialogue was particularly well used, not just in its ease of explaining complex plot hooks without the need for a wall of prose, but also in the relatability and authenticity that it has to the true teen voice. Zelly sounds like any other seventeen-year-old girl tasked with the impossible. Readers of Oversight will find themselves rooting for her and sitting on the edge of their seats as they race to this excellent novel’s startling conclusion. A recommended read indeed.
Oversight is a work of fiction in the adventure and supernatural subgenres. It is suitable for the young adult reading audience and contains mild scenes of violence but nothing too graphic. In this work penned by author Dennis Batchelder, we join our protagonist Zelly at a tumultuous time in her life. Aged seventeen, Zelly knows she has two more years to survive until she can ascend to power in the ancient order of Soul Identity, an organization that deals with past lives and memories. But when Zelly discovers that her closest friend Ying might be trying to kill her before her ascension, a journey into her own previous lives reveals even more shocking revelations, but her past might just help her survive the future.
Author Dennis Batchelder has crafted a highly original concept for this thrilling contemporary supernatural novel, so much so that the past-life elements blend into the realistic emotional plotline seamlessly. It’s easy to believe in the world Zelly inhabits, and YA readers will find themselves immediately immersed and gripped by her complex relationship with Ying and the pressures and gifts that Soul Identity brings to her life. I for one found that the dialogue was particularly well used, not just in its ease of explaining complex plot hooks without the need for a wall of prose, but also in the relatability and authenticity that it has to the true teen voice. Zelly sounds like any other seventeen-year-old girl tasked with the impossible. Readers of Oversight will find themselves rooting for her and sitting on the edge of their seats as they race to this excellent novel’s startling conclusion. A recommended read indeed.
Recommend this book:
Blaze Union and the Puddin' Head Schools
W.T. Kosmos
2023 Honorable Mention
415 Pages
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Young Adult - Social Issues
Reviewed by Amy Raines for Readers' Favorite
In Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools by W.T. Kosmos, a teen, impressed by the students' passion for protecting seahorses, runs into some problems. A protester and media frenzy that shows the most absurd behavior and idea makes the teen think that taking a break is a good idea. In search of schools even more absurd, the teen heads to Puddin’ Head Island School to find even stranger ideas like big hands not being as skillful as small hands for offense in soccer. Baking disasters occur when the Bigs make cookies and cakes from outlandish ingredients, and the Smalls still compliment them as they eat the disgusting treats. What absurdity will be found at the next school in the next Region? Will Blaze be expelled from everywhere or be forced to drop out for fighting nonsensical school rules?
Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools is an absolutely hilarious story that had me laughing at the odd behaviors presented in every chapter. I had a lot of fun reading about Blaze and the rest of the characters that made this funny story the crazy ride it is. I absolutely love the parallels to some of the most ridiculous behaviors that humanity has had to offer in recent years, and I applaud the concept of a student who isn’t afraid to stand up for what’s right and try to change the most absurd rules. I recommend Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools to anyone who is ready to have a good laugh and maybe learn something new along the way. I hope that W.T. Kosmos has many more stories like this one waiting in the wings that will give readers a good laugh.
In Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools by W.T. Kosmos, a teen, impressed by the students' passion for protecting seahorses, runs into some problems. A protester and media frenzy that shows the most absurd behavior and idea makes the teen think that taking a break is a good idea. In search of schools even more absurd, the teen heads to Puddin’ Head Island School to find even stranger ideas like big hands not being as skillful as small hands for offense in soccer. Baking disasters occur when the Bigs make cookies and cakes from outlandish ingredients, and the Smalls still compliment them as they eat the disgusting treats. What absurdity will be found at the next school in the next Region? Will Blaze be expelled from everywhere or be forced to drop out for fighting nonsensical school rules?
Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools is an absolutely hilarious story that had me laughing at the odd behaviors presented in every chapter. I had a lot of fun reading about Blaze and the rest of the characters that made this funny story the crazy ride it is. I absolutely love the parallels to some of the most ridiculous behaviors that humanity has had to offer in recent years, and I applaud the concept of a student who isn’t afraid to stand up for what’s right and try to change the most absurd rules. I recommend Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools to anyone who is ready to have a good laugh and maybe learn something new along the way. I hope that W.T. Kosmos has many more stories like this one waiting in the wings that will give readers a good laugh.
Recommend this book:
Metamorphosis
The Girl With No Face
Ivy Logan
2023 Bronze Medal
362 Pages
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Young Adult - Social Issues
Reviewed by Joseph Bulimo for Readers' Favorite
Metamorphosis: The Girl with No Face by Ivy Logan is a dark and fractured fantasy about Amelia's quest to uncover the truths beneath past secrets. In Peradora, South America, Siobhan, the queen of the Heichi, is just beginning to discover her self-worth. Pain is as much a part of her existence as anything else. The quest for love is what motivates her. She has a daughter who knows the truth about her mother. Is she a sorceress? You might say! Follow Amelia's journey of how she perceives a world full of suspense. Learn all about what it takes to uncover the true nature of dictatorial regimes in a dystopian society.
Metamorphosis's subtitle reads, "The Past Will Blind You, The Truth Will Set You Free," which is exceptionally appealing. Love stories always carry a deeper meaning. I was impressed by the concept of the storyline. Hatred is what stirs conflict but, simultaneously, is transitional. I also like the contemporary outlook; it gives one a feeling of anticipation regarding the unexpected. The magical element and a foreign language influence are noteworthy, enhancing diversity. As the second book in The Breach Chronicles, Metamorphosis exceeded expectations. Ivy Logan has a vivid sense of imagination in her writing. Her storytelling is admirably profound. This great read will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Metamorphosis: The Girl with No Face by Ivy Logan is a dark and fractured fantasy about Amelia's quest to uncover the truths beneath past secrets. In Peradora, South America, Siobhan, the queen of the Heichi, is just beginning to discover her self-worth. Pain is as much a part of her existence as anything else. The quest for love is what motivates her. She has a daughter who knows the truth about her mother. Is she a sorceress? You might say! Follow Amelia's journey of how she perceives a world full of suspense. Learn all about what it takes to uncover the true nature of dictatorial regimes in a dystopian society.
Metamorphosis's subtitle reads, "The Past Will Blind You, The Truth Will Set You Free," which is exceptionally appealing. Love stories always carry a deeper meaning. I was impressed by the concept of the storyline. Hatred is what stirs conflict but, simultaneously, is transitional. I also like the contemporary outlook; it gives one a feeling of anticipation regarding the unexpected. The magical element and a foreign language influence are noteworthy, enhancing diversity. As the second book in The Breach Chronicles, Metamorphosis exceeded expectations. Ivy Logan has a vivid sense of imagination in her writing. Her storytelling is admirably profound. This great read will keep you on the edge of your seat.
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Running for Shelter
A True Story (Holocaust Books for Young Adults)
Suzette Sheft
2023 Silver Medal
174 Pages
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Young Adult - Social Issues
Reviewed by Steve Leshin for Readers' Favorite
Running For Shelter by Suzette Sheft is the story of the author’s grandmother as a young girl raised in Vienna, Austria in the 1930s. At first young Inga Eisinger lives a sheltered life. Her mother is Stella, who enjoys fine art, and nice things. Inga’s grandmother is around and has a governess who teaches proper manners and ensures Inga behaves. The young girl enjoys her friends in the exciting city of Vienna. All this comes to a halt when her estranged father suddenly appears on their doorstep. He is in trouble and asks for help from Stella. In the background, there is the Nazi invasion of Austria. Soon Inga witnesses her father being brutally beaten and taken away from the house. She does not understand why. Soon things go from bad to worse. Inga’s house is absent of furniture, the servants are gone, and she must leave Vienna with her mother and go to Switzerland. Overnight her whole world changes and Inga must live in poverty and be torn away from her family. Why? There is a family secret that her mother did not reveal to her.
Running For Shelter is a coming-of-age tale geared toward young adults. Yet it can be appreciated by readers of all ages. Suzette Shef was only age 13 when she began to write Running For Shelter, the true story of her grandmother’s experience during the Holocaust. It is an incredibly well-researched account of a young girl’s life experience during the horrible events taking place when the Nazis invaded most of Europe. It is written in a style that is engrossing and will engage the reader in a powerful and meaningful way. I was impressed with the writing and the way Shef related the story of her grandmother. In a way, it reminded me of Anne Frank's diary. Shef demonstrates the subtle way the Holocaust affected the lives of those not taken directly to the camps, yet they were still victims. Part of the Holocaust Books for Young Adults series, it is an essential and engaging work. A must-read.
Running For Shelter by Suzette Sheft is the story of the author’s grandmother as a young girl raised in Vienna, Austria in the 1930s. At first young Inga Eisinger lives a sheltered life. Her mother is Stella, who enjoys fine art, and nice things. Inga’s grandmother is around and has a governess who teaches proper manners and ensures Inga behaves. The young girl enjoys her friends in the exciting city of Vienna. All this comes to a halt when her estranged father suddenly appears on their doorstep. He is in trouble and asks for help from Stella. In the background, there is the Nazi invasion of Austria. Soon Inga witnesses her father being brutally beaten and taken away from the house. She does not understand why. Soon things go from bad to worse. Inga’s house is absent of furniture, the servants are gone, and she must leave Vienna with her mother and go to Switzerland. Overnight her whole world changes and Inga must live in poverty and be torn away from her family. Why? There is a family secret that her mother did not reveal to her.
Running For Shelter is a coming-of-age tale geared toward young adults. Yet it can be appreciated by readers of all ages. Suzette Shef was only age 13 when she began to write Running For Shelter, the true story of her grandmother’s experience during the Holocaust. It is an incredibly well-researched account of a young girl’s life experience during the horrible events taking place when the Nazis invaded most of Europe. It is written in a style that is engrossing and will engage the reader in a powerful and meaningful way. I was impressed with the writing and the way Shef related the story of her grandmother. In a way, it reminded me of Anne Frank's diary. Shef demonstrates the subtle way the Holocaust affected the lives of those not taken directly to the camps, yet they were still victims. Part of the Holocaust Books for Young Adults series, it is an essential and engaging work. A must-read.
Recommend this book:
Chronicles of MatiLou and PerryAnn
Martha Passel
2023 Gold Medal
387 Pages
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Young Adult - Social Issues
Reviewed by Joe Wisinski for Readers' Favorite
Chronicles of MatiLou and PerryAnn by Martha Passel is about two young women who face tragedies, tough decisions, and many questions about their future, as well as what happened in the past. The book is written in four parts and covers 30 years. PerryAnn’s parents had died in a car crash, and she wanted to know exactly what happened, so she and MatiLou looked for the answer. Their quest was complicated by the fact that a boy PerryAnn had a crush on may have been involved. At the same time, MatiLou struggled with her marriage because her husband worked for causes that were in opposition to her beliefs. As they work through their respective issues, the characters mature and eventually find the answers they are looking for. In addition to the two friends, there’s a significant character who’s 83 years old and who teaches a philosophy of forgiveness, acceptance, and responsibility. The book has a strong pro-environment message.
Chronicles of MatiLou and PerryAnn by Martha Passel is a fascinating read. The author grabs her reader’s attention from the beginning and keeps them in suspense throughout. The characters are credible because they show the full gamut of human emotions and frailties. I liked the pro-environment message, which the author is passionate about, although never preachy. Because the characters are young this is particularly important, as young people will identify with them and be encouraged to support the same cause. I also liked the emphasis on relying on your best friends, even though you may sometimes have disagreements. The inclusion of the wise elderly character teaches respect for those who are older and who know more than readers do. The ending wraps up the plot lines well and leaves readers looking for more. Anyone from early teens upward will find it compelling, entertaining, and satisfying. I highly recommend this book.
Chronicles of MatiLou and PerryAnn by Martha Passel is about two young women who face tragedies, tough decisions, and many questions about their future, as well as what happened in the past. The book is written in four parts and covers 30 years. PerryAnn’s parents had died in a car crash, and she wanted to know exactly what happened, so she and MatiLou looked for the answer. Their quest was complicated by the fact that a boy PerryAnn had a crush on may have been involved. At the same time, MatiLou struggled with her marriage because her husband worked for causes that were in opposition to her beliefs. As they work through their respective issues, the characters mature and eventually find the answers they are looking for. In addition to the two friends, there’s a significant character who’s 83 years old and who teaches a philosophy of forgiveness, acceptance, and responsibility. The book has a strong pro-environment message.
Chronicles of MatiLou and PerryAnn by Martha Passel is a fascinating read. The author grabs her reader’s attention from the beginning and keeps them in suspense throughout. The characters are credible because they show the full gamut of human emotions and frailties. I liked the pro-environment message, which the author is passionate about, although never preachy. Because the characters are young this is particularly important, as young people will identify with them and be encouraged to support the same cause. I also liked the emphasis on relying on your best friends, even though you may sometimes have disagreements. The inclusion of the wise elderly character teaches respect for those who are older and who know more than readers do. The ending wraps up the plot lines well and leaves readers looking for more. Anyone from early teens upward will find it compelling, entertaining, and satisfying. I highly recommend this book.
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