Quick Review

The One Memory of Flora Banks is a gripping young adult novel. It explores the life of Flora, who suffers from anterograde amnesia. Her only recall is from childhood. When she kisses a boy, she remembers something for the first time in years. This sparks a journey of self-discovery and bravery.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Unique narrative style reflecting Flora’s condition.
• Strong character development, especially Flora’s journey.
• Engaging and emotional plot twists.

➖Cons:

• Repetitive elements can feel tedious at times.
• Some characters are underdeveloped or unlikeable.

Quick Review

“Masterminds: Payback” concludes Gordon Korman’s thrilling trilogy. The story captures four kids cloned from criminal masterminds. Betrayal leads them on a dangerous journey filled with suspense. They must find their origins while dealing with their new identities. Ultimately, it’s an exciting and satisfying conclusion to the series.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Engaging characters with unique backgrounds.
• Fast-paced and unpredictable plot with many twists.
• Satisfying conclusion to a well-written trilogy.

➖Cons:

• The simplified storytelling might not appeal to all readers.
• Some readers found the ending somewhat anticlimactic.

Quick Review

City of Saints & Thieves by Natalie C. Anderson is a gripping young adult thriller.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Richly detailed setting of Kenya and Congo.
• Strong character development, particularly of Tina.
• Engaging and fast-paced plot with twists.

➖Cons:

• The mystery aspect lacks suspense at times.
• The romance subplot feels somewhat unnecessary.

Quick Review

Here Lies Daniel Tate is a spine-tingling mystery thriller. It follows a con artist impersonating a lost boy. The story explores themes of identity, family secrets, and survival. Terrill masterfully keeps readers questioning the truth. This gripping tale unveils shocking twists and emotional depth.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Intriguing premise with a clever con artist.
• Strong character development throughout the story.
• Captivating writing style that keeps you engaged.
• Unpredictable twists that keep readers guessing.
• Realistic portrayal of family dynamics and secrets.

➖Cons:

• Lack of chapters might be frustrating for some readers.
• Ending may leave some readers wanting more closure.

Quick Review

I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez is a poignant tale of self-discovery.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Authentic representation of Mexican-American culture.
• Honest portrayal of mental health struggles.
• Complex character development throughout the narrative.

➖Cons:

• Julia’s character may be unlikable to some readers.
• Plot feels episodic at times, losing focus.

Quick Review

The Nowhere Girls is an empowering tale about three unlikely friends who fight against rape culture. In a society fraught with misogyny, they pave the way for change. The novel dives deep into crucial issues while highlighting the importance of female solidarity.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Strong character development with relatable protagonists.
• Addresses important issues like rape culture and misogyny.
• Diverse representation across various identities and backgrounds.

➖Cons:

• Some themes might be too intense for sensitive readers.
• A few interactions may feel unrealistic for teenagers.

Quick Review

“Honestly Ben” by Bill Konigsberg picks up where “Openly Straight” left off. It follows Ben Carver navigating friendships and romantic confusion. With pressure from school and family, Ben faces challenges head-on, exploring his identity. The story is both heartfelt and comical, touching on significant themes of love and acceptance.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Engaging character development, especially with Ben and Rafe.
• Humor woven throughout serious themes.
• Exploration of bisexuality and identity issues.
• Strong secondary characters like Toby bring depth.
• Captivating writing style that makes readers invested.

➖Cons:

• Some plot elements feel rushed and unresolved.
• Occasional confusion about Ben’s sexuality is frustrating.
• Critics mentioned biphobia and bi-erasure issues.

Quick Review

Words on Bathroom Walls is an emotional journey. It explores Adam, a teen with paranoid schizophrenia. Through journal entries, readers experience his struggles and relationships. The honest portrayal of mental illness is both humorous and heartbreaking.

Pros and Cons

➕Pros:

• Engaging portrayal of schizophrenia.
• Adam’s humor brings lightness to heavy themes.
• Realistic and healthy relationships depicted.

➖Cons:

• Some plot elements feel predictable.
• Journal entry format may not appeal to everyone.