Books about cultural heritage

Vera Brosgol’s Be Prepared is a hilariously honest and relatable graphic novel that captures the universal struggle of trying to fit in. Growing up as a Russian girl in the American suburbs, Vera feels like an outsider. While her wealthy friends head off to fancy summer camps, Vera’s single mother finds the only option within their budget: a Russian summer camp. Vera is initially thrilled, thinking she has finally found a place where she will belong, but the reality of camp—complete with terrifying outhouses, endless history lessons, and "cool girl" drama—is far from the dream she imagined.

This graphic memoir is a perfect choice for readers who love Raina Telgemeier’s Smile or Victoria Jamieson’s Roller Girl. It beautifully balances humor with poignant moments of self-discovery and the complexities of navigating cultural identity. Ideal for middle-grade readers interested in summer camp adventures and stories about finding your own path, Be Prepared is a must-read that parents and children will both appreciate for its wit and heart.

Highlights:

• Relatable story about the challenges of fitting in and making friends.
• Engaging graphic novel format with expressive and funny illustrations.
• Explores themes of cultural heritage and the immigrant experience.
• Perfect for fans of realistic fiction and coming-of-age memoirs.

In Ghosts, Raina Telgemeier delivers a powerful and visually stunning graphic novel that explores the deep bond between two sisters. Catrina and her family move to the foggy coast of Northern California to help her younger sister, Maya, who struggles with cystic fibrosis. While the move is meant to provide Maya with better air, the girls soon discover that their new town of Bahía de la Luna is home to more than just salty breezes—it is inhabited by spirits. This story is perfect for children who love graphic novels that balance real-life challenges with a touch of the supernatural.

As the town prepares for the Day of the Dead, Maya is eager to meet a ghost, but Catrina is paralyzed by fear. The sisters must navigate their different perspectives on life, death, and the unknown. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in cultural traditions, family dynamics, and stories about overcoming anxiety. Telgemeier masterfully handles sensitive topics like chronic illness and mortality with grace and hope, making it a great choice for middle grade readers looking for emotional depth.

Highlights:

• A beautiful exploration of Mexican-American heritage and the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos).
• Relatable portrayal of sisterhood and the impact of chronic illness on a family.
• Engaging graphic novel format from the award-winning author of Smile and Sisters.
• A gentle introduction to themes of mortality and the afterlife for young readers.
• Perfect for fans of magical realism and contemporary fiction.

Hangry Hearts is a sparkling, food-filled contemporary romance that reimagines the classic Romeo and Juliet story through the lens of two rival Taiwanese-American families. Julie Wu and Randall Hur were once inseparable best friends, but a long-standing feud between their grandmothers has turned them into Saturday morning rivals at the Pasadena Farmers Market. When a school community service project forces them to work together alongside the wealthy London Kim, old feelings resurface, sparking a secret romance filled with hidden kisses and early morning breakfast dates.

This charming Young Adult novel is perfect for readers who love "enemies-to-lovers" tropes and stories centered on cultural identity and family traditions. As the Year of the Dragon approaches, Julie and Randall must decide if their love is worth defying their families' expectations. It is an ideal choice for fans of Jenny Han or Maurene Goo who enjoy stories where food, family, and first love collide in the most delicious ways.

Highlights:

• A modern, foodie-inspired retelling of Romeo and Juliet set in Pasadena.
• Explores complex family dynamics and the pressure of cultural expectations.
• Features mouth-watering descriptions of Taiwanese breakfast and Lunar New Year traditions.
• A sweet and emotional journey of second chances and resolving old grudges.

Leah Zhang is a former model who finds herself in a bit of a mess after a linguistic mishap at her cousin's wedding. Sent on a mandatory travel program across China to reconnect with her roots, Leah expects a quiet escape. Instead, she is forced to share the journey with Cyrus Sui—the boy who once ruined her life with a single lie. As they travel through breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities, Leah must navigate her complicated feelings for her rival while rediscovering the parts of herself she thought were lost forever.

This New York Times bestselling author delivers a hilarious and deeply moving romantic comedy that is perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers tropes and travel-based adventures. Ideal for readers interested in stories about cultural identity and finding one's place in the world, this book combines sharp wit with emotional depth. It is a great choice for teens who enjoy lighthearted yet meaningful contemporary fiction.

Highlights:

• A captivating enemies-to-lovers romance set against the stunning backdrop of China.
• Explores themes of cultural heritage, language barriers, and self-acceptance.
• Witty dialogue and relatable characters that will keep readers hooked.
• Perfect for fans of Ann Liang's previous hits and modern YA romcoms.

Salvación is a breathtaking Latinx Young Adult fantasy that reimagines the legend of El Zorro with a powerful female lead. Set in the high-stakes era of Alta California following the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, the story follows Lola de La Peña. By day, Lola navigates the rigid societal expectations of a young Mexican lady, but by night, she transforms into the masked vigilante Salvación. This novel is perfect for readers who love stories about secret identities, magical systems rooted in culture, and the fight for justice against overwhelming odds.

When a ruthless man wielding deadly sal roja (red salt) magic threatens to destroy her home, Lola must race against time to protect her family and community. Along the way, she encounters Alejandro, a boy whose loyalties are unclear but whose presence makes her mission even more complicated. Ideal for fans of Zorro and readers interested in historical fantasy with a romantic twist, this book explores themes of duty, heritage, and the courage to be oneself. It is a great choice for teens looking for diverse voices in the fantasy genre.

Highlights:

• A thrilling gender-flipped reimagining of the classic El Zorro legend.
• Richly detailed historical setting in 19th-century Alta California.
• A unique magic system based on healing and destructive salts.
• Compelling romantic tension and high-stakes adventure.
• Strong themes of cultural identity and female empowerment.

In These Vengeful Wishes, aspiring artist Ceci is uprooted from her life and moved to the eccentric town of Santa Aguas after her stepfather's arrest. The town is steeped in the terrifying legend of La Cegua, a vengeful spirit who punishes untrustworthy men. As Ceci settles into a crumbling, rumored-to-be-cursed manor, she begins to paint a mysterious door that she eventually finds hidden deep within the forest. Alongside her new friend Jamie, she discovers a well that grants wishes—but in Santa Aguas, every wish comes with a devastating price.

This atmospheric YA horror novel is ideal for readers interested in dark folklore and stories where the past refuses to stay buried. Vanessa Montalban crafts a haunting narrative that explores the weight of family secrets and the thin line between justice and revenge. It is a great choice for fans of Trang Thanh Tran and Krystal Sutherland, offering a perfect blend of supernatural chills and emotional depth. Parents looking for diverse horror with strong cultural roots will find this a captivating addition to their teen's bookshelf.

Highlights:

• A dark and immersive exploration of Latinx folklore and the legend of La Cegua.
• A gripping mystery centered on a cursed family manor and long-hidden secrets.
• Perfect for fans of atmospheric YA horror and supernatural thrillers.
• Explores complex themes of justice, revenge, and the consequences of our desires.