After the success of my first list last week, I’ve decided to write another one, and to continue writing one every Thursday. Thank you so much for your continued support.
As a high school English teacher, I love to introduce new books to my students. These are four very different books for young-adult readers, but all tremendous reads. Like with my last list, I’ve provided a quick blurb and the link to my full review.
Sky in the Deep by Adrienne Young. (Out now)
Described as “part Wonder Woman, part Vikings―and all heart,” I was blown away by this story of a young Eelyn. After being taken as a slave by one of the rival clans, she needs to use her wits and her strength to survive. A great character and superb writing make this one a must-read.
https://paulspicks.blog/2018/03/05/sky-in-the-deep-by-adrienne-young/
Tradition by Brendan Kiely. (Releases May 1st)
Told by Jules and Jamie, a girl who wants to be done with the drama and a hockey-player transfer student who doesn’t want to get sucked into it. They band together to fight the strict privilege of a New England boarding school. With characters that reach way beyond high school stereotypes, Kiely has crafted a timely novel that looks unflinchingly at the subject of consent. Well written and realistic.
https://paulspicks.blog/2018/03/14/tradition-by-brendan-kiely/
Anger is a Gift by Mark Oshiro. (Releases May 22nd)
Moss Jeffries is a young man who has a lot of anger and anxiety, but also so much hope and loyalty. These two opposing forces battle in his head as his Oakland neighborhood is struck with acts of police brutality and systematic oppression. The support of his devoted friends, his first boyfriend, and his resolute mother is inspiring. This is an important book for many, many reasons.
https://paulspicks.blog/2018/03/26/anger-is-a-gift-by-mark-oshiro/
LifeL1k3 by Jay Kristoff. (Releases May 29th)
Set in a post-apocalypse California. A world populated by cyber-krakens! Eve is a young junker who spends her time looking for parts for her mech-warrior and taking care of her ailing grandfather. Everything changes when a piece of tech falls from the sky, a most human-like android named Ezekiel. This Lifelike will take Eve on an adventure throughout the wild west and into her own past. Fun and thoughtful.
https://paulspicks.blog/2018/03/29/lifel1k3-by-jay-kristoff/
Paul's Picks 
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