The Blackthorn Key by Kevin Sands

Christopher Rowe is happy as an apprentice in Master Benedict Blackthorn’s apothecary shop. But when a mysterious cult begins murdering apothecaries in the district, life becomes dangerous. Then Master Blackthorn is murdered. Now, Christopher must follow the clues Blackthorn left and solve the mystery to prove his innocence and stop the killer.

The Blackthorn Key is a fun mix of mystery, adventure, and historical fiction. There are puzzles to solve and fast action scenes to capture the attention of a variety of readers. Better yet, if it captures your attention, there are several more books in the series.

Recommended ages–11-14 years old

Here to Stay by Sara Farizan

Bijan Majidi has survived high school by not standing out. But when he helps win a crucial game in the school’s basketball playoffs, Bijan is thrown into the spotlight. While Bijan enjoys his new popularity, not everyone is happy he is getting attention. Someone posts an anonymous picture of Bijan photoshopped to look like a terrorist. Now everyone notices him and not all in a good way. No longer able to hide in the background, Bijan must decide if he will stay in the spotlight and stand up for himself.

Here to Stay is a great book to reach a variety of readers. There is plenty of basketball to appeal to the sports lovers, but this book is so much more. Bijan’s story covers friendship, loyalty, racism, bullying, and growing up. While some of the issues are difficult, the story is told in an interesting and uplifting way.

Recommended ages–14 and up, some language and bullying/racism

The Art of Holding On and Letting Go by Kristen Bartley Lenz

Cara’s life revolves around rock climbing. When she isn’t in competitions, she is roaming the world with her parents finding new climbing challenges. But when tragedy strikes, Cara’s life changes abruptly. Now Cara must adapt to life with her grandparents in suburban Detroit, far from the California mountains that she loves. Not only that, for the first time ever, Cara is stuck in public school.

The Art of Holding on and Letting Go uses a background of rock climbing to teach valuable life lessons. Cara’s experience explores new friendships, family relationships, grief, and healing in an interesting coming of age story. With enjoyable characters and new insight to the rock climbing world, Lenz tells an interesting story that will catch the attention of teen readers.