Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn

So much happens in this book, I could not stop reading. In this sequel to Legendborn, Briana Mathews is no longer just fighting shadowborn demons and trying to uncover the truth of her mother’s death. Now, Bree finds herself in the supposedly most powerful position within the unwelcoming Order. She is suddenly fighting demons who want to take over the world, political leaders who see her as a threat to their system, and ancestors from two different bloodlines who think she should do things differently.  … More Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn

The Boy, the Cloud, and the Very Tall Tale by Heather Smith

The Boy, the Cloud, and the Very Tall Tale is a story that transports readers to a charming magical setting filled with adventure and quirky characters I couldn’t help but adore. Themes of growing into oneself and learning to be vulnerable are wonderfully interwoven into Ewan’s character. The rest of the poignant narrative explores themes of self-worth, grief, and a heartfelt exploration of loss. This book will enchant readers with its cozy fantasy atmosphere created by magical elements and captivating dialogue. … More The Boy, the Cloud, and the Very Tall Tale by Heather Smith

Don’t Want to Be Your Monster by Deke Moulton

What truly stands out is the inclusiveness of the book as a host of under-represented communities find a place in the story. Moulton truly provides a rich tapestry of gender, sexuality, race, religion and culture without tokenizing or stereotyping these characters. Deeper questions about familial bonds, the historical Othering of marginalized groups, and the difficulty of ‘doing the right thing’ are also addressed, making it a more rewarding and layered experience. … More Don’t Want to Be Your Monster by Deke Moulton

The Skull by Jon Klassen

These instances of horror showcase Klassen’s ability to push the boundaries of children’s literature, creating a tale that not only entertains but also challenges readers’ emotions and expectations. The evocative yet simplistic writing style further conveys sense of dread throughout the story and makes this book great for younger readers interested in exploring scarier genres. … More The Skull by Jon Klassen