Bloom: The Overthrow #1 by Kenneth Oppel

It seems like a simple rainstorm, but it is much more. The rain carries seeds that turn into strange black grass which grows several feet high overnight. Then there’s the pollen that causes horrendous allergic reactions. Next come plants with enticing berries and sacks that capture and devour small animals. Finally, the pit plants drag people in, gas them, cover them in acid and digest them. The plants are covering the earth and no one is immune.

Just three young teenagers on a remote island appear to be immune to the plants. Anaya, Petra, and Seth must figure out their connection to the plants and learn what causes their immunity. They may be the world’s only hope for preventing the Overthrow. This fast-paced novel is a perfect mix of science fiction, dystopia, and horror. Perfect for middle schoolers and young teens that want an exciting story with just the right amount of scary.

Recommended ages--12-16 years old

Adrift by Paul Griffin

Matt and John are two friends from Queens trying to make some extra money by working in Montauk for the summer. When Matt meets Dri and then talks John into coming to her ‘rich kids’ party, their lives are changed forever. Dri’s cousin Estefania goes out for an ill fated night windsurfing run and Matt, John, Dri, and Stef’s boyfriend Jojo head out in a small boat to save her. This leads to five kids stranded in the ocean with not much hope of survival.

Adrift is a high action book of survival, but it also delves into the psychological side of people forced into a crisis. The storms and struggles are hard enough, but when past secrets come to light, it is even harder for the kids to hold it together. This is a haunting look at our will to live and the things that get in the way. Recommended for those who enjoy a survival book, but also a psychological thriller.

Recommended ages--14 and up

There’s Something About Sweetie by Sandhya Menon

Sweetie Nair is a talented and dutiful Indian American daughter, but her mother only sees that she is fat. Ashish Patel is a slightly rebellious Indian American son who, after a bad breakup, is finally looking to his parents for dating help. When Ashish’s mom suggests that Sweetie and Ashish date, but Sweetie’s mom says no, a complicated relationship begins.

Ashish wants to date Sweetie to prove to himself that he isn’t really the pitiful loser he has been since Celia broke up with him. Sweetie wants to date Ash to prove to herself and to the world that she is much more than what her body looks like. Both enjoy their time together and might even be falling in love, but will their personal struggles ruin a great relationship?

There’s Something About Sweetie is a sweet story about self discovery and building self confidence. It also does a great job introducing some Indian American culture. At times the story was even a little too sweet for my taste, but it is one I can recommend with a clear conscience. Sweetie and Ashish are good, moral characters with an interesting story to share.

Recommended ages--12 and up