#mctba

Lady Camembert is desperate to live life on her own terms, free from the traditional gender roles in the Kingdom of Fromage. Upon her father’s passing, she seizes the opportunity for a fresh start and moves to the capital. Disguised as a man, Camembert enjoys a life full of activism, royal friends, and the latest fashions. As Camembert and Princess Brie develop feelings for each other, keeping the truth of her identity a secret gets harder. What sacrifices will Lady Camembert make to live the life of her dreams?

Elena Soo is strongly anti-prom, even going so far as to try to stage an alternative prom event to benefit her beloved community center—and then her childhood friend surprises her, dropping back into her life after four years with an over-the-top promposal. Did we mention he has grown up into a pink-haired K-Pop star? Once upon a K-Prom is a super sweet friends-to-lovers story that will keep you turning the pages.  The dialogue is playful and romantic and the K-Pop details give the reader a little glimpse into the world of K-Pop idols.  

Flamer by Mike Curato is a realistic, sometimes brutal, often tender portrayal of a teen boy figuring out that he is gay in the hyper heteronormative environment of a boy’s summer camp. Mostly depicted in delicate black ink brushstrokes,  Emotional scenes are highlighted with fiery orange and red flames, harkening to the title.  Some readers may find the barrage of anti gay slurs offensive or challenging to read; many readers will recognize they represent an accurate depiction of cultural norms in the 1990s.  The emotional climax of the story will have you in tears.  Flamer is sure to become part of the canon of queer teen literature. 

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.

Aurora Rising was one of my favorite reads of 2019! It’s an epic adventure that has some of  my favorite elements: unlikely heroes you root for, futuristic science, alien worlds, exciting adventure, mystery, suspense, and a bit of romance.  If you are a fan of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Guardians of the Galaxy, or theTV series Firefly you may find some similarities that make you smile and make this story even more endearing.  If you have no idea what Firefly is (just believe me it’s an amazing TV show) that’s okay, this book is still for you!  This is a great book for those who are looking for a fun to read. Even if you aren’t into space stories, the characters alone make this book worth picking up. Give it a try and look out for the sequel, Aurora Burning, that will be released this May!

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.

Exit, Pursued by a Bear is a tale of a young woman’s resilience and strength in the face of adversity. It’s also a story about support and friendship, Hermione is a well defined character who you can’t help but root for despite her seeming cold and distant at times. A great read for fans of realistic fiction with strong female characters.