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. 

How It Went Down by Kekla Magoon

Magoon’s novel is an incredibly engrossing book that presents the many angles of a complicated issue. The tragic death of an unarmed black male teen at the hands of an adult white male brings about questions, confusion, and misinterpretation about what actually happened and how it went down. The writing is genuine and not preachy; the characters have strong individual voices and are absolutely believable. Due to recent events, this book may help students explore their own feelings about racial inequalities and discrimination in our country. I recommend this book to readers who are interested in racial issues and enjoy stories that take place in urban settings with topics related to community, gang activity, violence, and poverty. Although the characters will appeal to both male and female readers, I especially recommend this book to teen males who may not enjoy reading for leisure.