Pride by Ibi Zoboi

“Zuri Benitez has pride. Brooklyn pride, family pride, and pride in her Afro-Latino roots. But pride might not be enough to save her rapidly gentrifying neighborhood from becoming unrecognizable.

When the wealthy Darcy family moves in across the street, Zuri wants nothing to do with their two teenage sons, even as her older sister, Janae, starts to fall for the charming Ainsley. She especially can’t stand the judgmental and arrogant Darius. Yet as Zuri and Darius are forced to find common ground, their initial dislike shifts into an unexpected understanding.

But with four wild sisters pulling her in different directions, cute boy Warren vying for her attention, and college applications hovering on the horizon, Zuri fights to find her place in Bushwick’s changing landscape, or lose it all.” - taken from Goodreads.com

I loved this modern take on Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. The characters and setting is what makes this book work. An awesome cultural twist on this classic story.

Visit Ibi Zoboi’s website.

Alex & Eliza trilogy by Melissa de la Cruz

Alex and Eliza - book one

“Their romance shaped a nation. The rest was history.

1777. Albany, New York.

As battle cries of the American Revolution echo in the distance, servants flutter about preparing for one of New York society’s biggest events: the Schuylers’ grand ball. Descended from two of the oldest and most distinguished bloodlines in New York, the Schuylers are proud to be one of their fledgling country’s founding families, and even prouder still of their three daughters—Angelica, with her razor-sharp wit; Peggy, with her dazzling looks; and Eliza, whose beauty and charm rival that of both her sisters, though she’d rather be aiding the colonists’ cause than dressing up for some silly ball.

Still, she can barely contain her excitement when she hears of the arrival of one Alexander Hamilton, a mysterious, rakish young colonel and General George Washington’s right-hand man. Though Alex has arrived as the bearer of bad news for the Schuylers, he can’t believe his luck—as an orphan, and a bastard one at that—to be in such esteemed company. And when Alex and Eliza meet that fateful night, so begins an epic love story that would forever change the course of American history.” - taken from Goodreads.com

Love & War - book two

“1780. Albany, New York.

As the war for American Independence carries on, two newlyweds are settling into their new adventure: marriage. But the honeymoon's over, and Alexander Hamilton and Eliza Schuyler are learning firsthand just how tricky wedded life can be. Alex is still General George Washington's right-hand man and his attention these days is nothing if not divided--much like the colonies' interests as the end of the Revolution draws near. Alex & Eliza's relationship is tested further by lingering jealousies and family drama.” - taken from Goodreads.com

All For One - book three

“1785. New York, New York.

As a young nation begins to take shape, Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler are on top of the world. They’re the toast of the town, keeping New York City buzzing with tales of their lavish parties, of Eliza’s legendary wit, and of Alex’s brilliant legal mind.

But new additions to Alex & Eliza’s little family mean change is afoot in the Hamilton household. When they agree to take in an orphaned teenage girl along with Eliza’s oldest brother, John Schuyler, Eliza can’t help but attempt a match. It’s not long before sparks start to fly…if only Eliza can keep herself from interfering too much in the course of true love. After all, she and Alex have an arrival of their own to plan for, though Alex’s latest case brings a perilous threat that may destroy everything.” - taken from Goodreads.com

I enjoyed diving into this twist on the love story between Alexander Hamilton and Eliza Schyler. As I read through this trilogy, I kept stopping to check the facts of their lives against the fictional tale of these two. The author does detail where she took her liberties with the story at the end of each book. A good read for those fans of the musical.

Visit Melissa de la Cruz’s website.

Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi

“A timely, crucial, and empowering exploration of racism--and antiracism--in America

This is NOT a history book.

This is a book about the here and now.

A book to help us better understand why we are where we are.

A book about race.

The construct of race has always been used to gain and keep power, to create dynamics that separate and silence. This remarkable reimagining of Dr. Ibram X. Kendi's National Book Award-winning Stamped from the Beginning reveals the history of racist ideas in America, and inspires hope for an antiracist future. It takes you on a race journey from then to now, shows you why we feel how we feel, and why the poison of racism lingers. It also proves that while racist ideas have always been easy to fabricate and distribute, they can also be discredited.

Through a gripping, fast-paced, and energizing narrative written by beloved award-winner Jason Reynolds, this book shines a light on the many insidious forms of racist ideas--and on ways readers can identify and stamp out racist thoughts in their daily lives.” - taken from Goodreads.com

This is a book that everyone should read. Outlining the history of racist ideas in America, I know that I now won't be able to think about the people, events, and ideas presented in this book the same way again. Very enlightening.

Visit Jason Reynolds’ website.

How to Speak Boy by Tiana Smith

“Quinn and Grayson have been fierce speech and debate rivals for years. They can't stand one another, either in competition or in real life.

But when their AP Government teacher returns their school assignments to the wrong cubbies, they begin exchanging anonymous notes without knowing who the other is.

Despite their differences, the two come together through their letters and find themselves unknowingly falling for the competition. Before the state tournament, the two of them need to figure out what they want out of life, or risk their own future happiness. After all, what’s the point of speech and debate if you can't say what's in your heart?” - taken from Goodreads.com

Quinn Edwards has always seen Grayson Hawkes as her main speech and debate rival. When they are named co-captains of the team, Quinn is determined to come out on top in the end. After an AP government assignment is mixed up upon return, Quinn starts a secret penpal relationship with a male classmate. As the season goes on, Quinn begins to fall not only for Grayson, whom she doesn't completely trust, but her unknown pen pal. This was another one of those cute rom-coms where the girl is completely caught off guard in the end. 

Visit Tiana Smith’s website.

The Shadows Between Us by Tricia Levenseller

“Alessandra is tired of being overlooked, but she has a plan to gain power:

1) Woo the Shadow King.

2) Marry him.

3) Kill him and take his kingdom for herself.

No one knows the extent of the freshly crowned Shadow King’s power. Some say he can command the shadows that swirl around him to do his bidding. Others say they speak to him, whispering the thoughts of his enemies. Regardless, Alessandra knows what she deserves, and she’s going to do everything within her power to get it.

But Alessandra’s not the only one trying to kill the king. As attempts on his life are made, she finds herself trying to keep him alive long enough for him to make her his queen—all while struggling not to lose her heart. After all, who better for a Shadow King than a cunning, villainous queen?” - taken from Goodreads.com

Once again, this book proves why the author has become one of my favorites. Writing fierce female characters is her forte. Alessandra is a girl who is determined to be in charge of her own destiny. With her take-charge attitude, she has her sights on ruling the kingdom, alone. What she doesn't plan on is falling in love with the Shadow King. A great fantasy read for fans who love a whole lot of romance thrown in. Swoon-worthy indeed.

 

Visit Tricia Levenseller’s website.

American Panda by Gloria Chao

“At seventeen, Mei should be in high school, but skipping fourth grade was part of her parents' master plan. Now a freshman at MIT, she is on track to fulfill the rest of this predetermined future: become a doctor, marry a preapproved Taiwanese Ivy Leaguer, produce a litter of babies.

With everything her parents have sacrificed to make her cushy life a reality, Mei can't bring herself to tell them the truth--that she (1) hates germs, (2) falls asleep in biology lectures, and (3) has a crush on her classmate Darren Takahashi, who is decidedly not Taiwanese.

But when Mei reconnects with her brother, Xing, who is estranged from the family for dating the wrong woman, Mei starts to wonder if all the secrets are truly worth it. Can she find a way to be herself, whoever that is, before her web of lies unravels?” - taken from Goodreads.com

I definitely enjoyed this book more than I thought I would and found that I had a hard time putting it down. Mei is a seventeen-year-old freshman at MIT and is a first-generation Chinese-American. With that comes the strict expectations to do as her family wishes. As Mei begins to spread her wings, she begins to free herself and a surprising character from their gilded cage of Chinese traditions. I really love how the story showcased Mei's growth. A worthwhile read.

Visit Gloria Chao’s website.

Love From A to Z by S.K. Ali

“A marvel: something you find amazing. Even ordinary-amazing. Like potatoes—because they make French fries happen. Like the perfect fries Adam and his mom used to make together.

An oddity: whatever gives you pause. Like the fact that there are hateful people in the world. Like Zayneb’s teacher, who won’t stop reminding the class how “bad” Muslims are.

But Zayneb, the only Muslim in class, isn’t bad. She’s angry.

When she gets suspended for confronting her teacher, and he begins investigating her activist friends, Zayneb heads to her aunt’s house in Doha, Qatar, for an early start to spring break.

Fueled by the guilt of getting her friends in trouble, she resolves to try out a newer, “nicer” version of herself in a place where no one knows her.

Then her path crosses with Adam’s.

Since he got diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in November, Adam’s stopped going to classes, intent, instead, on perfecting the making of things. Intent on keeping the memory of his mom alive for his little sister.

Adam’s also intent on keeping his diagnosis a secret from his grieving father.

Alone, Adam and Zayneb are playing roles for others, keeping their real thoughts locked away in their journals.

Until a marvel and an oddity occurs…

Marvel: Adam and Zayneb meeting.

Oddity: Adam and Zayneb meeting.” - taken from Goodreads.com

This is a love story and the personal journeys of two teens that begin with a chance meeting on a flight. When their paths continue to cross over the next two weeks, Adam and Zayneb soon realize that they cannot fight their mutual attraction even as they each work to overcome personal struggles. I loved how the author wrote this in a diary-style from the two main characters while providing a satisfying ending.

Visit S.K. Ali’s website.

Bygone Badass Broads: 52 Forgotten Women who Changed the World by Mackenzi Lee

¨Based on Mackenzi Lee’s popular weekly Twitter series of the same name, Bygone Badass Broads features 52 remarkable and forgotten trailblazing women from all over the world. With tales of heroism and cunning, in-depth bios and witty storytelling, Bygone Badass Broads gives new life to these historic female pioneers. Starting in the fifth century BC and continuing to the present, the book takes a closer look at bold and inspiring women who dared to step outside the traditional gender roles of their time. Coupled with riveting illustrations and Lee’s humorous and conversational storytelling style, this book is an outright celebration of the badass women who paved the way for the rest of us.¨- taken from Goodreads.com

This was a quick read about fifty-two mostly forgotten women who changed the world. Beware, this may be a history book but the language is super casual with a modern take that can take a bit to get used to. Out of the fifty-two women, I'd only heard of a couple of them beforehand. Definitely an enjoyable read.

Visit Mackenzi Lee’s website.

The Start of You and Me duology by Emery Lord

“It’s been a year since it happened—when Paige Hancock’s first boyfriend died in an accident. After shutting out the world for two years, Paige is finally ready for a second chance at high school . . . and she has a plan. First: Get her old crush, Ryan Chase, to date her—the perfect way to convince everyone she’s back to normal. Next: Join a club—simple, it’s high school after all. But when Ryan’s sweet, nerdy cousin, Max, moves to town and recruits Paige for the Quiz Bowl team (of all things!) her perfect plan is thrown for a serious loop. Will Paige be able to face her fears and finally open herself up to the life she was meant to live?”  - taken from Goodreads.com

I adored this book and loved Paige Hancock,her struggles over the death of her boyfriend and her incredible circle of friends. Determined to move on with her life and date the newly single Ryan Chase, it's his cousin, Max Watson, who eventually finds his way under her skin. reminiscent of a Hallmark channel movie, readers will need to stick to the very end to see the real magic happen.

SPOILER ALERT! Please don’t read any further if you don’t want to ruin the rest of the story.

The Map From Here to There - book 2

“It's senior year, and Paige Hancock is finally living her best life. She has a fun summer job, great friends, and a super charming boyfriend who totally gets her. But senior year also means big decisions. Weighing "the rest of her life," Paige feels her anxiety begin to pervade every decision she makes. Everything is exactly how she always wanted it to be--how can she leave it all behind next year? In her head, she knows there is so much more to experience after high school. But in her heart, is it so terrible to want everything to stay the same forever?” - taken from Goodreads.com

This second book picks up at the beginning of Paige Hancock's senior year of high school. She has a lot on her plate: college, a job, her parents, and of course Max Watson. And in true Paige fashion, she doesn't know how to cope. I was a bit frustrated with her and that she shut out her friends and family but Paige finally realizes that she needs to learn to live in the now and not obsess over the future.

Visit Emery Lord’s website.