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. 

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

The writing in this book was so beautiful; I never wanted it to end and the storytelling talent of this author is beyond compare. Woodson shares the story of her youth in free verse that conveys so much emotion in its compact format. The story follows the author and her family from her birthplace in Columbus, Ohio, to Greenville, South Carolina, and eventually Brooklyn, New York, during the 1960s and 1970s. This brown girl never stopped dreaming, and it makes her story incredible, unforgettable, and amazing. I recommend this book to readers who like stories about family, personal identity, Civil Rights, and books in verse. If I could, I would give this book 10 out of 5 stars—it is one of my very favorites and I truly loved this book.

Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper

Just because she can't control her movements, is in a wheelchair, and can't talk, everyone thinks that Melody is not smart. Her teachers and classmates believe that her brain is handicapped as well. But Melody hears and understands everything--she has millions of words, thoughts, and ideas locked in her mind with no way out. Until one day when she gets a miraculous device, similar to a super computer, that finally allows her to "talk." Finally, Melody can speak up for herself and be heard. But soon Melody learns that being able to speak might be the easy part about interacting with her classmates. Find out what happens when Melody joins her school's quiz team and shows everyone what she really knows--and not everyone is happy about it. I recommend this book to readers who like stories about overcoming obstacles, success stories, kids with disabilities, and books like Wonder. This book made me laugh, cry, and celebrate right along with Melody. It is one of the best books I've read in 2014. I give this amazing book 5 out of 5 stars!

Hidden by Helen Frost

The lives of two 8-year-old girls, Wren and Darra, change forever when Darra's father steals a minivan and does not realize that Wren is hiding inside. Written in verse, this book moves quickly and takes the reader along as Wren figures out how to escape the minivan inside Darra's locked garage without being discovered. Years later, the two girls meet again by chance at a summer camp. Find out what happens when Wren and Darra confront each other about their shared past. I recommend this book to readers who like suspense, family drama, and books in verse; readers who liked Girl, Stolen, will also enjoy this similar but different story. I give it 5 out of 5 stars!

The Here and Now by Ann Brashares

Thanks to getting back to school, my blog has been on hiatus. I'm hoping to be back to a more regular schedule...
This book is categorized as Science Fiction because it involves time travel, but it takes place mostly in current time which makes it a good crossover book for students considering sci fi. The main character Prenna travels "back" in time to 2010 and the story takes place in 2014. The future where Prenna comes from basically takes all of our current worst fears and makes them true and magnified: an enormous food shortage, a major epidemic without a cure, and the worst effects of global warming. Prenna and a group travelers come back in time in hopes of a better life, and to also "fix" the problems that resulted in this horrible world. However, Prenna and the travelers are forced to follow strict rules about how they can interact with time natives, or the people who have not traveled back in time. The most serious rule of all is no physical contact, or falling in love, with a time native. Prenna abides by the rules until she meets Ethan. Then everything changes and Prenna challenges every belief that holds her community together. I recommend this book to readers who enjoy science fiction, survival stories, action/suspense, and books such as the Divergent or Legend series. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars!

Sisters by Raina Telgemeier

The latest by Raina Telgemeier does not disappoint! Based on the true story of the author's relationship with her little sister, this graphic novel is both humorous and heart-felt. During a family road trip from California to Colorado, Raina learns about her relationship with her little sister, her family, and herself. I also liked the book's design and how the pages were yellow(ed) to indicate a flashback. I strongly recommend this book to readers who enjoyed Smile and Drama, the author's other titles; to any readers who like graphic novels; and to readers who can relate to the ups and downs of having a brother or sister. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars!

Notes From the Midnight Driver by Jordan Sonnenblick

While not my favorite Sonnenblick book (which would be Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie), this was still a solid read. After Alex Gregory drove a car without a license (while drunk) and decapitated a lawn gnome, he is required to work community service with senior citizen and resident grouch Solomon Lewis. In the beginning of the book, Alex is self-centered and immature. In fact, I thought his character was annoying. Yet, as the book continued, I started to like Alex more and more. I loved Solomon, a character who was inspired by the author's grandfather. The story takes hilarious (and somewhat predictable) turns as crusty old Solomon and Alex get to know each other. 
I recommend this to readers who can relate to family issues, divorce, and making mistakes, as well as readers who like music--playing electric guitar in particular. It would strongly appeal to middle school boys with an interest in music. I give this book 3.5 out of 5 stars!