May Picks
Middle School
 
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Eureka by Victoria Chang Recommended by Maddie Promised safety outside of San Francisco, 12-year-old Mei Mei travels by herself to Eureka, California where she navigates increasing violence against her community leading up to the expulsion of Chinese immigrants in 1885. Recommended for historical fiction readers looking for stories in verse. |
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Death in the Jungle: Murder, Betrayal, and the Lost Dream of Jonestown by Candace Fleming Recommended by Emily True crime fans will be captivated by this account of the Jonestown Massacre, in which a cult leader convinces over 900 followers to commit “revolutionary suicide” by drinking cyanide-laced punch in the South American jungle. |
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The Teacher of Nomad Land: A World War II Story by Daniel Nayeri Recommended by Leah In the shadow of World War II, two orphaned siblings embark on a perilous journey across the mountains of Iran–where survival depends on finding a common language in a world torn apart. Nayeri is a skilled storyteller both on and off the page, bringing his characters to life with heart and humor in the audiobook edition. |
High School
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The Judgment of Yoyo Gold by Isaac Blum Recommended by Maddie Yoyo Gold has always been the perfect Jewish daughter. She keeps kosher, looks after her siblings, and respects the decisions of her rabbi father. But when she sees her best friend cast out of the community over a seemingly innocent mistake, Yoyo’s eyes are opened to the truth of her neighbors’ hypocrisies. |
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My Contrary Mary by Cynthia Hand Recommended by Denise In this offbeat historical fantasy, Mary is the queen of Scotland and the jewel of the French court. Except when she’s a mouse. It’s a secret that could cost her head–or tail. Luckily, Mary has a confidant in her betrothed, Francis. But things at the gilded court take a treacherous turn after the king’s suspicious end. |
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This Place Kills Me by Mariko Tamaki illustrated by Nicole Goux Recommended by Emily A private school is thrown into chaos when its beloved theater star is found dead the morning after opening night. Transfer student Abby was the last person to see her alive, and even though Elizabeth’s death is ruled a suicide, Abby’s not convinced. Theater kids and mystery fans will swallow this book whole. |
Looking for more great reads?
Browse our T(w)een Booklists, fill out a Book Match for a custom booklist, or stop by the Loft to chat with our staff.
