Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Josie Moraine, the daughter of a brothel prostitute, feels trapped by her parentage. She wants nothing more than to escape New Orleans and the stigma that follows her. In spite of hard work and help from loyal friends, Josie is continually constrained by her ties to her mother and the expectations of society.

Out of the Easy is a fantastic character novel--with many characters that defy stereotypes and make readers love them. It is also an interesting look at New Orleans in the 1950s with rich historical detail. Whether you read for history, storyline, or character development, this book is a great find. The story deals with some sensitive subjects, but remains appropriate for teen readers.

Recommended ages--13 and up

Seasons of the Storm by Elle Cosimano

As Jack Sommers lay dying alone, Gaia offered him a different choice. Now he is an immortal Winter caught in the brutal cycle of the Seasons. Each year he hunts and kills Autumn (Amber) then lives as a Winter and waits for Spring (Fleur) to kill him. After death, Jack recovers, trains, and lives the cycle over again. But when Jack and Fleur fall in love, Jack starts to question the system. If the four Seasons unite, is there a way to avoid the yearly killing cycle?

Soon Jack and his friends are running for their lives, trying to find a new way to survive. Seasons of the Storm is a unique and exciting read with fantasy and hints of dystopia and romance. It will appeal to a variety of adventure lovers who enjoy plenty of interpersonal drama as well. It manages to fit the mold of a variety of genres, making it both familiar and new at the same time.

Recommended ages--12 and up

The Incredible Magic of Being by Kathryn Erskine

Julian, his moms, and his sister have just moved to Maine to open a B&B. With his eternal optimism, Julian sees magic in everything around him. However, he wishes he could help his family see the same magic of the universe. Instead, he worries that they are all falling apart and in spite of his ‘uni-sensing’ he can’t figure out how to fix them. On top of everything else, their mysterious neighbor Mr. X might prevent Julian’s family from opening their B&B.

With an endearing and precocious hero, The Incredible Magic of Being will leave all readers smiling. Through Julian’s accounts, even the most skeptical can see the magic in the universe, but most importantly the magic that comes from the love of family. This uplifting book is great read for all ages, especially when life is getting you down.

Recommended ages--ALL