#mcfls

White Rose is a strong, stirring reminder to stand up for what you believe in, even when it’s difficult - especially when it’s difficult. History buffs and poetry admirers will love this MCTBA nominee.

As families begin disappearing in Baltimore, Jane finds herself in the middle of a conspiracy in which she must battle the undead as well as politicians who are advocating for an America that represses people of color in order to maintain the status quo.   At first glance this book is a new and interesting take on zombie lore and a different approach to the alternative history genre.  However, themes of race and systematic racism run throughout the book and make it a deeper read.  This is a book that can spark a discussion about race in America and might be a good book to pick up if you are looking for a thought provoking unique read.  Or you can just read it for the zombies.

Spirited away to the High Court of Faerie as a child after witnessing the murder of her parents, seventeen-year-old Jude is desperately trying to fit in. She is constantly underestimated and dismissed--by her well-meaning sisters, her bloodthirsty adoptive father, and her cruel and arrogant classmates, especially the enigmatic Prince Cardan. But Jude is no pushover. She is a fierce, whip-smart heroine who turns her weaknesses into strengths. She knows she’s capable of being more than the feeble mortal everyone sees her as. When a tournament where Jude’s dream of proving herself by becoming a knight draws closer, she finds herself enmeshed in the politics of the Faerie realm. It’ll take all of her cunning to survive. Once again, author Holly Black draws readers into her beautiful, dark, and dangerous world of Faerie--a world filled with magic and monsters. With compelling characters, delicious drama, and hints of romance, this first book in “The Folk of the Air” series will have you clamoring for more. Fans of twisty plots, political intrigue, and dark fairy tales will love this MCTBA nominee.

This book is perfect for any reader looking for a sweet love story. But more importantly, it is important for anyone who is struggling with accepting their body. It is the best confidence booster and you will surely be rooting for our couple right to the very end.

Jay Reguero, a high school senior living in Michigan, is hoping to take it easy on his last spring break before he graduates, playing video games and hanging with his friend. But when his father tells him that his cousin and former pen-pal, Jun, has been murdered by the Filipino government as part of President Duterte’s war on drugs, he decides to fly to the Philippines to find out the truth.  This book is compelling from page one, and begs you to read until the end.  This authentic voice novel deals with many issues that teens face today, including struggles with family dynamics, drugs, mental health issues as well as broadens one’s world views as it vividly draws you into the island world of the Philippines.  Do not miss this gripping page turner.

Words We Don’t Say is much more than your basic YA novel.  While some readers may struggle with the novel at first, as the reader is never really taken out of Joel’s head space, this read really pulls together in the end.  There are so many important social issues brought to light including a very well done depiction of veterans and PTSD.  The reader will also enjoy the unique style of Joel’s character development, really beginning to understand him through his many unsent text messages.  

McManus’ well-developed characters, spooky setting, and intricate plots weave together to create a fast-paced, page-turner mystery that readers won’t put down until the end.

McGinnis creates a page-turner as the reader delves into the realistic spiral of drug addiction and the devastating effects it has on the user, friends, and family.