Shouting at the Rain by Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Delsie has always felt left behind--when her mother leaves, when Papa Joseph dies, and when her best friend only wants to hang out with the new girl. She wonders if she’s broken and how her life got so mixed up. But as the summer goes on and Delsie makes new friends and recognizes old loyal friendships, her perspective begins to change. She realizes that ‘It’s not what you look at that counts, but what you see,’ and Delsie finally understands that she has been surrounded by love all along.

As usual, Lynda Mullaly Hunt approaches painful subjects with hope and grace. She creates wonderful characters that make you want to cheer. Shouting at the Rain is a marvelous read aloud about friendship, family, and community perfect for all ages.

Recommended ages--8 and up

Love from A to Z by S.K. Ali

Zayneb is on her way to Doha, Qatar, after being suspended from school because of a racist teacher. Adam is on his way home, still working through being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. They both notice each other on the plane from London, but only exchange a few words. When they meet again at a party, neither can deny their connection. However, life’s problems and some miscommunication threaten their beginning relationship. Will they overcome the distractions that get in their way?

This is a light story of young love, but it is also so much more. Zayneb’s story confronts the problem of racism while Adam’s experience faces the trials of physical disabilities. Also, their story reveals much about the culture and beliefs of Islam. Love from A to Z is a love story with a powerful social message.

Recommended ages--13 and up

Far Away by Lisa Graff

CJ loves her unique life. She lives in a tour bus and travels the United States with her Aunt Nic’s psychic medium show. When CJ gets lonely for her mother who died shortly after she was born, she can talk to her through Aunt Nic. When Aunt Nic warns CJ she will no longer be able to communicate with her mother, CJ goes searching for a tether--something to tie her mother’s soul to the earth. CJ heads out on a road trip that digs deeper into her family’s past. However, the secrets CJ uncovers leave her wondering what is true and what are lies.

Through a story filled with mystery, Lisa Graff introduces an interesting cast of characters. CJ is spunky and sometimes bossy, but also vulnerable and endearing. Her journey for truth and connection is heartbreaking, but also uplifting. Although CJ’s story is unique, tween young readers will relate to the desire to belong and the blessings and trials of family. This novel would be a good fit for middle grade readers and tweens or a fun read aloud for younger grades.

Recommended ages--10 and up