Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier

The latest graphic novel by the extremely talented Raina Telgemeier is a true treat. I loved that the main character is of Mexican heritage, and the story explores the ways in which their family has lost touch with Mexican traditions after the death of Abuela (Grandma). This story shares with readers what it is like to have a sick sibling and it explains cystic fibrosis in an empathetic, kid-friendly way. The theme of ghosts and celebrating the loved ones we have lost through the holiday of Dia de los Muertos was well done and touching. This title will make a great addition to my classroom library, and I know my students will love it. I recommend this book to fans of graphic novels and Raina Telgemeier, as well as kids who feel like their siblings' needs may overshadow their own. Kids who have recently moved and had to change schools will also identify with main character, Catrina. 

Illegal by Bettina Restrepo

We need more books for adolescents about the experience of young illegal immigrants living in the United States, and the struggles they face. After my students suggested La Linea by Ann Jaramillo, I've been looking for similar books. I was very hopeful when I picked up Restrepo's book. While some parts of it will be relatable and compelling for certain students, I thought it was slightly unrealistic and did not delve into the true struggles that many immigrant youth face. The main character, Nora, and her mother seem to "luck out" and fare better than I expect most people do. Illegal is worth reading, but I had hoped for more. I'd recommend it to a younger middle school audience, or to more idealistic, naive readers since other students might see right through the hopeful, glossy perspective this book takes on a serious, complex topic. 

One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies by Sonya Sones

A student recommended this book to me, so that makes it a must-read on my list. I can see why she loved it--it's told in verse, which is very popular and accessible for many readers. This is the story of Ruby, who is forced to move to California and live with a father she's never met, after her mother dies. Ruby has to leave behind Boston, her Aunt Duffy, best friend Lizzie, and boyfriend Ray. In exchange, she gets Los Angeles and a famous, movie star dad. But for Ruby, the glamour of Hollywood and a mansion for a house cannot replace everything she's left behind and a real home. I recommend this book to readers who like books about losing a parent, change, fitting in, and relationships. This story is fast-paced and interesting, while also including some fresh, beautifully written verses to capture Ruby's complicated feelings about life with her father. Readers will be able to relate and feel like they are with Ruby every step of the way. 

Trouble is a Friend of Mine by Stephanie Tromly

I love the opening lines of this book: Of course I didn't like Digby when I first met him. No one does. This book made me laugh out loud multiple times--which is an impressive feat all in itself for a middle school teacher contending with spring fever and apathy. The playful wit and banter of both main characters, Zoe and Digby, is thoroughly enjoyable and carries the reader along into the heart of the story. Digby involves Zoe in his investigation of a local missing teen, Marina Miller. Before Zoe knows it, she's on "Planet Digby" and there's no return. I adored this book and feel that it has something for all readers--sharp wit, adventure, mystery, and humor. I would recommend this book to my 7th and 8th graders; it's great for kids who already understand and enjoy sarcasm and quirky characters. Originally, I thought the story left readers with at least one major loose end, but then I found out there is another book in the works. Can. Not. Wait. 

Out of Darkness by Ashley Hope Perez

There is a reason this book was named a Printz Honor Book. Author Perez uses fictional characters to tell the story of the New London school explosion, the worst school disaster in U.S. history. Although the historical research is well-done and interesting, the characters are what pull readers in--and they refuse to let go. The story is centered on Naomi; her twin half-siblings Beto and Cari; and Wash. Naomi, a Mexican girl, and Wash, a Black boy, strike up a friendship that ignores the strictly drawn racial lines in 1937 East Texas. Naomi's half-siblings pass as white because their father enrolls them in school using the names Robert and Carrie Smith, rather than their given birth names. Naomi, on the other hand, is quickly identified by her classmates as Not White. Her unmatched beauty does not help her situation at school--the girls envy her and the boys leer at her. The story that unfolds will keep readers up late into the night until they reach the unforgettable ending. After finishing this book, I wasn't able to sleep and its conclusion is still haunting me days later. I absolutely recommend this book to readers who enjoy historical fiction and stories about racial inequities, as well as intoxicating page turners. Due to mature content, I do not recommend this book for middle school students. It is suited to high school/college students, or adult readers. 

Close to Famous by Joan Bauer

This book opens with a bang. Foster McKee and her mother are fleeing Memphis with a crazed Elvis impersonator hot on their tail. Readers soon find out the crazy Elvis is actually Foster's mother's ex-boyfriend Huck, who is not happy to see his former love and back-up singer driving out of his life. Foster and her mom relocate to the small town of Culpepper, which has recently become home to a prison and its prisoners. Foster grapples with her own problems--her father died serving overseas in the military, and she struggles with reading and school. Like many of Bauer's books, younger readers (6th grade and below) will enjoy its optimistic portrayal of serious problems such as domestic violence. Some of this book would be too sugary for students dealing with major life problems. I recommend it to readers who enjoy cooking/baking, and stories about fitting in, perseverance, and building relationships. 

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.