"Hard, yet heartwarming"

Fighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley: Very moving. Fighting Words won the 2021 Newbery award, and I think it deserves that honor. It's a hard, yet heartwarming read that explores some of my favorite tropes, like sisterhood and kids in foster care. Don't let the age of the main character fool you: this book is about important topics and kids, teens, and adults alike should read it.

*Content Warnings Apply

"An evil queen ruling on the moon"

Cinder (and the rest of the Lunar Chronicles series) by Marissa Meyer: My best friend and I adore this series, set in the dystopian New Beijing after several world wars. The Lunar Chronicles has it all: a newly crowned emperor, 4 kick-butt protagonists, an escaped convict with a quirky sense of humor, an evil queen ruling on the moon, and lots more. The world-building is intrinsic and the plot complex across the 4 books in the series. Cress, the third book in the series, is my personal favorite.

"Laugh-out-loud lines"

The Ruins of Gorlan (and the rest of the Ranger's Apprentice series) by John Flanagan: I was recommended this book by several family members who had loved the series. It's set in a medieval-like world with mid-teen boy, Will, as protagonist. The series follows Will as he becomes a ranger, a protector of the village. My favorite character is Halt, Will's mentor, who has some laugh-out-loud lines.

- LaFayette Teens Recommend