Ah, fall. The leaves are changing, the days get shorter and the nights get longer – better for reading books! Here are some new ones that have crossed my path:
Glory O’Brien’s history of the future by A.S. King.
“As her high school graduation draws near, Glory O’Brien begins having powerful and terrifying visions of the future as she struggles with her long-buried grief over her mother’s suicide.”– Provided by publisher.
I read this in practically one sitting. A.S. King kills it, yet again. Glory is a fierce and intelligent narrator, the premise is interesting and unusual for a dystopian YA novel and the loose ends are tied up in a satisfying way. My main critique is that the legislation that is the impetus for the plot seemed a bit far-fetched, although I loved the feminist angle in general. This is a perfect read for all those dumb young stars in the spotlight claiming we don’t need feminism and that feminism is a bad word. Imagine a world without those rights – which King did skillfully.
The unfinished life of Addison Stone by Adele Griffin.
“When a celebrated New York City teenager, known for her subversive street art, mysteriously dies, her life is examined in a series of interviews with her parents, friends, boyfriends, mentors, and critics.”– Provided by publisher.
Interesting use of multi-media throughout the story. The character of Addison Stone felt real – like the latest It-girls Alexa Chung, Olivia Palmero, or Blake Lively known for image more than talent. But Addison had substance too. Griffin sure lucked out in finding her beautiful muse (the daughter of a friend, I believe), but some of the story fell flat and some photos were a bit contrived. overall and interesting concept, mostly well-executed.
Popular a memoir: Vintage wisdom for a modern geek by Maya Van Wagenen.
“A touchingly honest, candidly hysterical memoir from breakout teen author Maya Van Wagenen. Stuck at the bottom of the social ladder at “pretty much the lowest level of people at school who aren’t paid to be here,” Maya Van Wagenen decided to begin a unique social experiment: spend the school year following a 1950s popularity guide, written by former teen model Betty Cornell. Can curlers, girdles, Vaseline, and a strand of pearls help Maya on her quest to be popular? The real-life results are painful, funny, and include a wonderful and unexpected surprise-meeting and befriending Betty Cornell herself. Told with humor and grace, Maya’s journey offers readers of all ages a thoroughly contemporary example of kindness and self-confidence.”– Provided by publisher.
I love you Maya! And the world is surely at her feet. She’s been offered a movie deal and man, I hope fame and fortune don’t ruin this sweet, sweet girl. So positive, offering real-life examples of how to get out there and be a good person. Have Maya’s book in every school so the sweet, shy, good-hearted kids can find ways to make friends and share their positive energy!
Enjoy!
Sharon Long
Teen Services Librarian