Crystal says:
Fans of The Phantom of the Opera will surely enjoy this dark retelling as much as I did. Howard’s vivid imagery, along with the immense amount of research she put into the novel, is more than enough to draw the reader in until the very last page.
Recommendation
Lady Midnight by Cassandra Clare
Crystal says:
I’m a huge fan of anything in Cassandra Clare’s Shadowhunters universe, and this installment did not disappoint. I’m waiting for a chance to read the next book.
The Thank You Book by Mo Willems
Pam says:
I enjoy sharing books that make me laugh and this is one of them. Elephant and Piggie have an amazing friendship. They just know how to have fun.
Cruel Beauty by Rosamund Hodge
Crystal says:
This was an interesting take on the story of Beauty and the Beast. A perfect mix of the beloved fairy tale and Greek mythology, this book is a dark retelling of the classic that was easy to finish in just a few days.
Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard
Crystal says:
Red Queen is such a fantastic introduction into a new fantasy world that I have never experienced before as a reader. I can’t recommend this series enough.
Jessica says:
This book has an interesting spin on dystopian society. In the distant future, some people have evolved to have abilities, and they rule over those without. It’s a good read.
Pig the Pug by Aaron Blabey
Recommended by Pam
No review available
Through the Woods by Emily Carroll
Tracy says:
This is a uniquely beautiful and terrifying graphic novel, where the text and images truly become inseparable.
On Writing by Stephen King
Heather says:
No other book on the craft of writing can come close to this timeless masterpiece. King is a giant in the writing world, and his advice is as relevant today as it was years ago. A must-read for any writer.
Nowhere Girl by Susan Strecker
Heather says:
This suspenseful mystery unfolds carefully, exposing secrets with such majesty that it will take your breath away. I didn’t see the end coming, and neither will you!
Escape from Camp 14 by Blaine Harrison
Vicki says:
The true story of Shin Dong Hyuk’s escape from one of North Korea’s political prisons, and his struggle for freedom.
The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls
Vicki says:
If you haven’t read this, please do. From page one, you will instantly be a part of the childhood of Jeannette Walls and her loving but child-like and irresponsible parents.
Monty says:
A wonderful memoir of all the adventures and tragedies a young girl lives through while growing up with a very dysfunctional family. It is a book that will hold your attention; you will not want to put it down.
Donna says:
Based on a true story, this movie is a window into a very dysfunctional family, the damage it did, and strangely enough, the unconditional love it generated. For people that have gone through hard times with their own brand of craziness, this is a hilarious, emotional, and cleansing flick. I highly recommend it.
Hiding in the Light by Rifqa Bary
Vicki says:
A young Muslim girl living in the U.S. converts to Christianity and finds love and forgiveness for those who persecute her.
An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir
Tracy says:
Fascinating world building, complex characters, and truly compelling writing—full of action, heartbreak, and a very real sense of danger—combine to create one of the most memorable books I’ve read in years.
Chris says:
A complete page-turner. With a unique fantasy setting and compelling characters, this book becomes impossible to put down.
Rosemary: The Hidden Kennedy Daughter by Kate Clifford Larson
Tanya says:
An interesting look into the Kennedy family, delving into the one member who seemed to almost be forgotten. It’s a very sad yet also sweet telling of the best kept secrets of the Kennedys.
Vicki says:
The most beautiful of the Kennedy girls could not keep up intellectually, and for many years was hidden away, until a visit from JFK.
Scythe by Neal Shusterman
Tracy says:
Set in a world where humans are virtually immortal and ordained killers known as Scythes are used to keep overpopulation in check, this is a gripping sci-fi thriller that raises thought-provoking questions about morality and human nature.
We Were Liars by E. Lockhart
Tracy says:
A story of love, lies, secrets, and deep family dysfunction, We Were Liars is a gorgeously written psychological thriller full of drama and mystery.
The Female of the Species by Mindy McGinnis
Tracy says:
This is an unsettling, brutal book in many respects, but it’s also complex, riveting, and completely brilliant.
Highly Illogical Behavior by John Corey Whaley
Tracy says:
There’s an unselfconscious ease and wit to this book, creating a highly readable story about mental illness, friendship, and taking chances. The characters are quirky and immensely likable despite their flaws.
Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
Tracy says:
Crisp, beautiful writing, a unique situation, and an unforeseen twist make this debut novel much more than just another sweet love story. Now that there’s a movie, the book is finally getting the attention it deserves.
Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk
Angel says:
I enjoyed this book. It’s not a light, easy read; it will leave you thinking. It was full of good lessons and suspense.
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
Angel says:
This is one of my son’s favorite books. He loves basketball. This book is great because the game descriptions are very exciting and realistic.
Short by Holly Goldberg Sloan
Angel says:
This book is super cute and heartwarming. I really enjoyed it.
Tracy says:
This is a charming, feel-good read brimming with appealing characters and relationships. I loved Julia’s authentic, curious narrative voice and the moments of unexpected humor.
The Warden’s Daughter by Jerry Spinelli
Angel says:
This book has some complex characters. It is suspenseful with some surprising twists!
The Boxcar Children by Gertrude Chandler Warner
Kirsten says:
Four orphans who refuse to lose what little remains are pulled even closer together in the midst of a mystery.
The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary
Kirsten says:
Curiosity can be dangerous but how boring would life be if we weren’t curious? Some of the best friendships are built on curiosity.





