Yes No Maybe So by Becky Abertalli and Aisha Saeed

Jamie Goldberg is roped into canvassing for his local senate candidate because his cousin is a campaign manager. Maya Rehman is putting in political service hours because her parents have offered her a car in return. However, as Jamie and Maya learn more about the campaign and what it means, they become some of the biggest and most active supporters. They aren’t only converted to the campaign. Jamie and Maya seem to be falling for each other. But can they survive a cross-cultural romance in the middle of political stress?

Yes No Maybe So is close to perfection in a young adult novel for me. It is billed as a teen romance, but it covers everything--racism, religion, political activism, and growing up. Abertalli and Saeed educate their readers on Jewish and Muslim culture, the ins and outs of political campaigning, and how state governments and elections work. They wrap all that up with some great characters and an entertaining story all while keeping the romance clean and age appropriate. I highly recommend this one!

Recommended ages--12 and up

Flame in the Mist by Renee Ahdeih

Although Mariko knows an advantageous marriage is part of her familial duty, she longs for a chance to use her intellect. She doesn’t want to be confined to the role of a noble wife. When her marriage caravan is attacked by the notorious Black Clan, Mariko’s life changes drastically. The sole survivor, Mariko is determined to infiltrate the Black Clan and discover who is responsible for her attempted murder. Dressed as a peasant boy, Mariko plots revenge, but instead finds a place where she can truly be herself.

This entertaining tale is a type of Mulan meets Robin Hood. It is a perfect read for lovers of folk tales who enjoy new twists to an older story. The characters are well developed and the story intriguing. Readers just have to be prepared for a series that is not completed yet.

Recommended ages--12 and up

The Unlikely Hero of Room 13B by Teresa Toten

Adam Spencer Ross is a normal teenage boy, just a normal boy with a threshold problem...and a few other obsessions. But when he meets and immediately falls in love with Robyn Plummer, he knows he will get better for her. He will protect her. The problem is that life is getting harder and some of his compulsions are escalating. Adam’s therapist Chuck helps him. The members of the group in 13B help, too. But Adam feels responsible for saving so many people and yet he has trouble even saving himself.

The Unlikely Hero of Room 13B is a new favorite for me. I listened to the audiobook and I loved all the characters. I want to spend a day with everyone from room 13B, but especially Adam Spencer Ross/Batman. This book is a profound and heartfelt look at the struggles of OCD--showing the true heroism of anyone who battles that disorder. It is also a book about family, friendship, and about learning to love yourself. I highly recommend this wonderful story.

Recommended ages--13 and up