Duels and Deception by Cindy Anstey

In the style of Georgette Heyer, Duels and Deceptions is a light Regency mystery for teen readers. Miss Lydia Whitfield is a dutiful daughter prepared to follow her dead father’s wishes and unite her family estate with the neighbors through marriage. She has everything planned until she meets her attorney’s young (and attractive) law clerk Robert. When Lydia is kidnapped for her fortune and Robert comes to her rescue, Lydia begins to question the future she has laid out.

The story follows Lydia and Robert through a series of ridiculous misadventures that would would make Georgette Heyer proud. The book doesn’t include the same level of Regency period detail and accuracy, but it has a similar style. Duels and Deceptions is a great read for Jane Austen fans or for those who enjoy a frivolous tale.

Recommended ages--12 and up

Captain Superlative! By J.S. Puller

Janey Silverman is content to be invisible at Deerwood Park Middle School. You don’t make many friends, but you also are never noticed by Dagmar Hagen, the popular soccer star who makes her bully victims feel small and worthless. But things start to change when Captain Superlative shows up at school. She comes complete with red mask, silver swimsuit, tights, a neon wig, and even a cape. Captain Superlative spreads kindness and smiles and all without caring what other students think.

Janey is perplexed by Captain Superlative, but also inspired. When Janey defends another student, Captain Superlative insists Janey become her sidekick. But does Janey have the courage to be a sidekick, especially if Captain Superlative isn’t always there? This inspiring middle grade/tween novel will reach a wide variety of readers. Most students should be able to identify with one of the characters and their different situations. With a story both heartwarming and sometimes difficult, Captain Superlative! illustrates the power of kindness that can always begin with just one.

Recommended ages--8 and up

I Am Malala (Young Readers Edition) by Malala Yousafzai

Malala tells the captivating story of her fight for women’s education. Her story begins before the Taliban has a strong hold in Pakistan, but shows how one man’s wicked influence can corrupt entire communities. As religious persecution spreads, Malala and her family fight back for the education they treasured. Her story, while painful and discouraging in parts, is inspiring and hopeful. She shows young readers the power of speaking out about what you believe.

I Am Malala is a good book for students curious about different worlds and cultures. It shows the bleakness of war as well as the power of being committed to a cause. Malala’s story deals tactfully and appropriately with the violence she faced, but this is a good book for young readers to discuss with adults.

Recommended ages--10 and up (with adult guidance and discussion)