- libbyames
- Jul 28, 2021
Hugo hasn’t traveled much out of Surrey, England, so he is looking forward to the train trip across the United States with his girlfriend. Unfortunately, his girlfriend dumps him right before the trip and everything is reserved under her name. So, Hugo is in search of an alternate Margaret Campbell. In New York, Mae Campbell is still hurt by being rejected by her dream film school. On a whim, she signs up to join Hugo on his trip. As expected, humor, romance, and adventure begin.
Just like most romantic comedies, the plot is completely unbelievable, but entertaining. The characters are complicated and wonderful. The problems are challenging, but not insurmountable. It all leads to a fun, light travel story which remains remarkably clean. A perfect read for teens and even safe for tweens.
Recommended ages--12 and up
- libbyames
- Jul 27, 2021
As the only Asian person in her small-town Indiana high school, Ali Chu deals with and ignores a fair amount of clueless racism. But when Chase Yu moves in and everyone assumes they are meant for each other, Ali begins to fight back. The most annoying part is that she does find herself attracted to Chase in spite of her anger about everyone’s matchmaking. However, when Ali’s mom finds out about Chase, she forbids a relationship even though she has always said Ali can date Chinese boys. As Ali tries to find reasons for her mother’s opposition, she finds out more family secrets than she was ready for.
Our Wayward Fate is an interesting story about identity, friendship, and family. Ali’s experience gives a unique perspective of Asian American life while also showing universal family struggles. Her story is eye opening and intriguing. A good read for teens everywhere.
Recommended ages--13 and up
- libbyames
- Jul 27, 2021
When a skeleton is found on her family’s property, Rowan Chase feels compelled to learn its history. But her search into the past leads to painful discoveries about the past as well as the present. Told from alternating points of view and time periods, reveals the tension of Tulsa during the 1921 race riots as well as some of the current racial issues. Rowan’s investigation runs parallel to William’s story of life in 1921 Tulsa and the two perspectives solve a compelling mystery.
This story is fast-paced with excellent character development and realistic historical representation. It taught me a lot about a mostly undiscussed era in history. Although it definitely teaches profound lessons, the writing is never high handed or preachy. It kept my attention and would be a good read for most teen readers--also a great one for discussion.
Recommended ages 12 and up