When I Was the Greatest by Jason Reynolds

This book was the greatest. My young, Black male students seek authentic stories with a voice they can relate to, and Reynolds’ book about an admirable character dealing with the real struggles of growing up in an urban neighborhood, family issues, friendship and brotherhood is exceptional. When Ali finds himself at a high school party with his friends Noodles and Needles, he can’t believe they actually got in the door. But Ali’s excitement turns to dread and fear as the events of the evening threaten to change everything for him. As a result, Ali is forced to acknowledge what it really takes to stand up for family and to defend our own. I recommend this book to readers who like realistic problems, urban/inner city settings, friendship complications, fights and brotherhood. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars—it is fast-paced and characters are well-defined. I can’t wait to share this book.

Lovetorn by Kavita Daswani

I loved reading about Shalini and her adjustment to life in the U.S. after moving to Los Angeles, California, from India. Not only does Shalini have the regular worries of any high schooler in a new place—finding friends, fitting in, navigating a new school—she needs to learn an entire culture (American) and maintain her long-distance relationship with her fiance, Vikram, back in India. Shalini has been engaged to Vikram since she was 3 years old; little did she know that she would have the chance to move to the U.S. and develop a serious crush on an American boy. Shalini becomes torn between her old love and new possibilities. I recommend this book to readers who like to read about other cultures, being the new girl, fitting in, as well as family issues. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars—it was a quick, enjoyable read that will appeal to many teen readers.