Books about diversity

'Til Death is a high-octane Young Adult mystery thriller that transports readers to the vibrant and glamorous city of Lagos, Nigeria. True-crime enthusiast Lara Oyinlola is thrilled to attend her cousin Dérin’s star-studded wedding, expecting a holiday filled with glitzy parties and fashion. However, the celebration takes a dark turn when anonymous threats emerge, demanding the wedding be canceled. Lara decides to put her sleuthing skills to the test, but she soon discovers that the family’s polished exterior hides a web of dangerous secrets and malicious intent.

This addictive debut is perfect for fans of Holly Jackson and Karen M. McManus who enjoy fast-paced "whodunit" mysteries with high stakes. Author Busayo Matuluko brilliantly weaves Nigerian culture and family dynamics into a suspenseful narrative filled with gossip, drama, and near-death encounters. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in diverse voices, amateur detectives, and stories where every character has something to hide. The blend of humor and tension makes it a compulsive read that is hard to put down.

Highlights:

• A gripping amateur detective mystery set in the heart of Lagos, Nigeria.
• Rich exploration of Nigerian family traditions, culture, and social dynamics.
• Perfect for fans of A Good Girl's Guide to Murder and One of Us Is Lying.
• Features a relatable, true-crime-obsessed protagonist navigating complex family secrets.
• A thrilling mix of glamour, gossip, and high-stakes suspense.

5 Worlds: The Sand Warrior is a breathtaking graphic novel that kicks off an epic saga often described as "Star Wars meets Avatar: The Last Airbender." The story follows three unlikely heroes—Oona Lee, a clumsy but determined Sand Dancer; An Tzu, a boy from the slums with a mysterious gift; and Jax Amboy, a famous star athlete who lacks true connection. Together, they must embark on a high-stakes quest to light five ancient beacons and save their dying galaxy from extinction. This visually stunning adventure is perfect for children who love immersive world-building and fast-paced action.

Ideal for readers interested in stories about destiny, friendship, and overcoming personal flaws, this book combines vibrant artwork with a deep, meaningful plot. Parents will appreciate the strong character development and the themes of environmental stewardship and social justice woven into the narrative. It is a great choice for reluctant readers who are drawn to the graphic novel format but still crave a complex and rewarding story.

Highlights:

• Epic world-building with a unique blend of science fiction and fantasy elements.
• Diverse cast of relatable protagonists with distinct backgrounds and abilities.
• Stunning, cinematic illustrations that bring the Five Worlds to life.
• Engaging plot perfect for fans of Amulet and Wings of Fire.

Step onto the field and back in time with Jack and Annie in A Big Day for Baseball, a thrilling installment in the #1 bestselling Magic Tree House series. When Morgan the librarian gives the siblings magical baseball caps, they are whisked away to Brooklyn, New York, in 1947. Expecting to play in a professional game, they are surprised to find themselves serving as batboys instead. As they navigate the dugout, they realize they are witnessing a monumental moment in sports history: the debut of the legendary Jackie Robinson.

This book is perfect for children who love sports, time-travel adventures, and learning about real-life heroes. It seamlessly blends historical facts with a touch of magic, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in American history and the civil rights movement. Parents and teachers will appreciate how Mary Pope Osborne introduces complex topics like racial integration and perseverance in a way that is accessible and engaging for young minds. It is a great choice for fans of the series and new readers alike who enjoy a mix of mystery and action.

Highlights:

• Features the inspiring story of baseball legend Jackie Robinson.
• Combines magical elements with accurate historical settings.
• Encourages themes of bravery, fairness, and sportsmanship.
• Part of a beloved series that builds reading confidence in early learners.

Aznan is a brilliant inventor with a big dream and a difficult reality. Living on a space station with a chronic illness that makes gravity his greatest enemy, he has dropped out of school to focus on the one thing that could change his life: the system's biggest tech competition. Set against the vibrant and dizzying backdrop of a space station circus, Aznan must showcase his homemade technology to titans of industry. But to win, he must reconnect with Kairo, his ex-best friend turned aerialist, whom he hasn't spoken to in three years.

The stakes turn deadly when competitors start turning up dead. What was supposed to be a showcase of innovation quickly becomes a race for survival as Aznan and Kairo realize a killer is stalking the Grand Showcase. This gripping science fiction mystery is perfect for readers who love high-stakes competitions, complex character dynamics, and stories featuring disability representation. It is an ideal choice for fans of futuristic thrillers that blend technical ingenuity with deep emotional resonance.

Highlights:

• Unique space station circus setting with high-tech stakes
• Strong representation of a protagonist living with chronic illness
• Compelling LGBTQ+ themes and complex relationship dynamics
• Fast-paced murder mystery with a rising body count
• Themes of perseverance and reclaiming one's future

Always Be My Bibi is a vibrant and witty young adult romantic comedy that transports readers from the suburbs of America to the lush tea gardens of Sylhet, Bangladesh. Bibi Hossain is a relatable, slightly spoiled teenager whose summer plans are upended by her father's strict "no dating until your sister is married" rule. When her perfect older sister, Halima, announces a surprise engagement to a wealthy heir in Bangladesh, Bibi finds herself on a plane, hoping the trip will lead to her own romantic freedom. However, she quickly clashes with the groom’s stuffy younger brother, Sohel, leading to a delightful enemies-to-lovers dynamic as they both plot to stop the wedding.

This charming novel is perfect for fans of Jenny Han and Sandhya Menon who enjoy stories about cultural identity, family expectations, and the chaos of a "Big Fat Bengali Wedding." Priyanka Taslim masterfully balances humor with heartfelt moments, exploring what it means to bridge two different worlds while finding one's own voice. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in multicultural stories, romantic comedies with a travel twist, and books that celebrate South Asian heritage.

Highlights:

• A sparkling "enemies-to-lovers" romance set against a beautiful Bangladeshi backdrop.
• Explores complex family dynamics and the pressure of cultural traditions.
• Perfect for readers who love high-stakes wedding drama and witty banter.
• A rich, immersive look at Bengali culture, food, and celebrations.

Amari and the Despicable Wonders is the thrilling third installment in the #1 New York Times bestselling Supernatural Investigations series. In this high-stakes adventure, war has finally arrived in the supernatural world. Amari Peters finds herself caught between two powerful enemies: the manipulative Elaine Harlowe and her former partner, Dylan Van Helsing. With the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs under mind control and the League of Magicians seeking a destructive new power, Amari and her loyal friends must strike out on their own to find the legendary Wonders before it is too late.

This book is perfect for children who love Percy Jackson or Nevermoor. It offers a rich, diverse world filled with magical inventions, complex moral dilemmas, and heart-pounding action. Ideal for readers interested in stories about standing up for what is right, even when the cost is high, this novel explores deep themes of sacrifice and the true meaning of heroism. It is a great choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy urban fantasy and stories featuring strong, relatable protagonists of color.

Highlights:

• An epic continuation of the series featuring intense magical battles and high stakes.
• Deep exploration of themes like prejudice, systemic change, and the weight of leadership.
• A diverse cast of characters with strong bonds of friendship and family loyalty.
• Fast-paced plot filled with creative magical gadgets and supernatural creatures.

Amari Peters is back in the thrilling sequel to the hit series, Amari and the Great Game. After the events of the first book, Amari finds herself in a world where being a magician is still illegal and the supernatural world is more divided than ever. When a mysterious new leader takes over the Bureau and a competition known as the Great Game is announced to decide the fate of all wizards, Amari must decide if she is willing to step up and lead, even if it means risking everything she has worked for.

This book is perfect for children who love Harry Potter or Percy Jackson but are looking for a modern, diverse twist on the magical school trope. Ideal for readers interested in high-stakes competitions, secret societies, and stories about standing up for what is right, B.B. Alston delivers a fast-paced adventure that explores complex themes of prejudice and power. It is a great choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy immersive world-building and relatable heroes who find their strength in their unique identities.

Highlights:

• An action-packed magical competition that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
• Deep exploration of social justice and identity within a fantasy setting.
• A strong, relatable female protagonist navigating complex friendships and responsibilities.
• Expands the rich, imaginative world of the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs.

Amari Peters has always felt like an outsider, but when her brother Quinton goes missing, she discovers a world she never knew existed. After finding a ticking briefcase in his closet, Amari is whisked away to the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs, where she must compete for a spot in a summer camp filled with fairies, aliens, and magicians. This action-packed story is perfect for children who love magical schools and secret societies, offering a fresh, modern twist on the classic fantasy quest.

Ideal for readers interested in stories about overcoming prejudice and finding one's inner strength, Amari and the Night Brothers combines high-stakes mystery with a relatable protagonist. Amari’s journey as a magician in a world that fears her magic provides a powerful allegory for real-world issues, making it a great choice for parents looking for diverse middle-grade fiction that balances fun with meaningful themes. Fans of Percy Jackson or Harry Potter will find a new favorite hero in Amari.

Highlights:

• A thrilling blend of modern technology and ancient magic.
• Strong themes of sibling bonds, loyalty, and perseverance.
• A diverse cast of characters and a relatable, determined heroine.
• Fast-paced plot with unexpected twists and a high-stakes competition.

American Born Chinese is a groundbreaking graphic novel that masterfully weaves together three seemingly different stories into one powerful narrative. Readers follow Jin Wang, a teenager struggling to fit into a new school where he is the only Chinese-American student; the legendary Monkey King, who seeks to be more than just a monkey; and Chin-Kee, a character who embodies the most hurtful stereotypes. This award-winning book is perfect for children who love graphic novels that balance humor with deep, meaningful messages about belonging and self-acceptance.

Ideal for readers interested in diverse perspectives and modern fables, Gene Luen Yang’s work is a must-read for middle and high schoolers. It offers a unique look at the immigrant experience and the internal struggle to embrace one's heritage. This action-packed story is a great choice for fans of New Kid or The Arrival, providing a visual and emotional journey that culminates in an unforgettable climax.

Highlights:

• Winner of the Michael L. Printz Award and an Eisner Award.
• Explores complex themes of racial identity and cultural stereotypes in an accessible format.
• Features a clever blend of ancient Chinese folklore and modern-day realism.
• Engaging artwork that brings the emotional weight of the story to life.

Guardians of Dawn: Ami is a breathtaking East Asian-inspired fantasy that is perfect for readers who love epic quests and rich world-building. Li Ami is an exile, living on the fringes of society while caring for her father, whose strange ravings might actually be a dire prophecy. When a mysterious blight threatens their harvest and her father is arrested, Ami must step into her role as the Guardian of Wood to save her family and her world. This high-stakes adventure is an ideal choice for fans of Shadow and Bone or Cinder.

As the Morning Realms face a rising tide of undead and the threat of the Mother of Ten Thousand Demons, Ami joins forces with Jin Zhara, the Guardian of Fire. Together, they must journey to the Root of the World to seal a demon portal. This story is a great choice for teens who enjoy stories of self-discovery, magical destiny, and slow-burn romance. With its blend of folklore and fast-paced action, it is a must-read for anyone interested in diverse fantasy narratives.

Highlights:

• An immersive East Asian-inspired fantasy world with deep lore.
• A compelling journey of an exiled girl discovering her true power.
• High-stakes action featuring elemental magic and undead revenants.
• Themes of family loyalty, duty, and finding one's place in the world.

And They Were Roommates is a vibrant and hilarious contemporary romance that is perfect for fans of Casey McQuiston and Becky Albertalli. The story follows Charlie, who arrives at Valentine Academy for Boys with a plan to keep his identity as a trans student private. However, his world is turned upside down when he is assigned a roommate he never expected: Jasper Grimes, the boy who broke his heart before he transitioned. To make matters more complicated, Jasper doesn't even recognize him!

This unputdownable second-chance romance is ideal for readers interested in stories about self-discovery, identity, and the complexities of young love. As Charlie and Jasper spend long nights writing love letters for their classmates, they find themselves confronting deep feelings and past hurts. It is a great choice for teens looking for authentic LGBTQ+ representation and a roommate mishap trope that is both funny and deeply moving.

Highlights:

• A heartwarming and funny second-chance romance set in a boys' academy.
• Explores important themes of transgender identity, self-acceptance, and growth.
• Perfect for readers who enjoy the roommate mishap and secret identity tropes.
• Features a charming subplot involving writing love letters for fellow students.

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe is a lyrical and deeply moving coming-of-age story that explores the complex bond between two Mexican-American teenagers in El Paso, Texas. Aristotle "Ari" Mendoza is a quiet, angry loner struggling with his family's secrets, while Dante Quintana is an expressive, intellectual boy who sees the world through a unique lens. When their paths cross at a local swimming pool, an unlikely friendship begins that will challenge their perspectives on life, love, and who they are meant to be.

This Printz Honor book is ideal for readers interested in character-driven narratives and emotional depth. It is perfect for teens who love stories about self-discovery, the nuances of family dynamics, and the transformative power of friendship. Benjamin Alire Sáenz’s poetic prose makes this a great choice for fans of realistic fiction who appreciate a slow-burn, heartfelt journey toward acceptance and identity.

Highlights:

• A tender and honest exploration of male friendship and vulnerability.
• Beautifully written prose that captures the intensity of teenage emotions.
• Strong focus on Mexican-American identity and family relationships.
• A landmark LGBTQ+ young adult novel that resonates with readers of all ages.

Aristotle and Dante Dive into the Waters of the World is the breathtaking sequel to the award-winning Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. In this deeply moving conclusion to their story, Ari and Dante navigate their senior year of high school while exploring the depths of their love in a world that often feels hostile. Ari, who has spent years being silent and invisible, must find his voice, stand up to bullies, and learn what it truly means to build a life with someone else. This novel is a lyrical exploration of identity, culture, and the courage it takes to be yourself.

Perfect for readers who love emotional contemporary fiction and character-driven stories, this book is an ideal choice for fans of Adam Silvera and Mary H.K. Choi. It beautifully captures the complexities of growing up, the strength of family bonds, and the transformative power of first love. Parents looking for diverse young adult literature that tackles heavy themes with grace and sincerity will find this to be a profound reading experience for their teens.

Highlights:

• A powerful exploration of LGBTQ+ identity and Hispanic-American culture.
• Focuses on emotional growth, communication, and the importance of community.
• Features a poetic and introspective writing style that resonates with mature readers.
• A heartfelt conclusion to a beloved coming-of-age duology.

Bingsu for Two is an irresistibly charming contemporary romance that blends the high stakes of family expectations with the chaotic fun of viral internet fame. When River Langston-Lee walks out of his SATs and quits his job at his parents' cafe, he finds himself working at a struggling Korean cafe called Bingsu for Two. There, he meets Sarang Cho, his grumpy, goth co-worker who is determined to save her family's business—and who isn't exactly thrilled to have River around. This enemies-to-lovers story takes a hilarious turn when a viral video forces the pair into a fake-dating scheme to keep the cafe afloat.

Perfect for fans of Jenny Han and Better Than the Movies, this debut novel by Sujin Witherspoon is ideal for readers interested in Korean culture, delicious food descriptions, and the "fake dating" trope. It explores the pressures of growing up and the courage it takes to choose your own path rather than following the one laid out by others. With its blend of humor, heart, and swoon-worthy moments, it is a great choice for teens who love romantic comedies with depth.

Highlights:

• A delightful "enemies-to-lovers" and "fake dating" romance.
• Rich exploration of Korean-American identity and cafe culture.
• Relatable themes of academic pressure and finding one's own voice.
• Perfect for fans of K-dramas and contemporary YA fiction.

Blended is a poignant and powerful novel by Sharon M. Draper, the award-winning author of Out of My Mind. The story follows eleven-year-old Isabella, who feels torn between two worlds as she alternates weeks between her divorced parents. In one home, she is Isabella, living in a wealthy neighborhood with her Black father; in the other, she is Izzy, living in a modest house with her white mother. This moving story is perfect for children who love realistic fiction that explores the complexities of modern family life and the search for self-identity.

As Isabella navigates her parents' new engagements and the constant questions about her heritage, she begins to realize that being biracial is about more than just switching houses—it is about finding her own voice in a world that often tries to label her. The stakes rise significantly when a traumatic encounter with the police forces her family to confront harsh realities. This book is ideal for readers interested in social justice and stories that tackle tough, real-world issues with grace and honesty. It is a great choice for middle grade readers looking for a story that is both heart-wrenching and hopeful.

Highlights:

• Explores the nuances of biracial identity and belonging.
• A realistic look at the challenges of divorce and blended families.
• Tackles important social justice themes including prejudice and police encounters.
• Written by the acclaimed author of Out of My Mind.

Bloodmarked is the electrifying sequel to the award-winning Legendborn, continuing the story of Bree Matthews as she navigates a world of ancient magic and secret societies. This contemporary fantasy masterfully blends Arthurian legend with a powerful exploration of Black identity and the weight of ancestral history. It is a perfect choice for readers who love high-stakes adventures, complex magic systems, and stories that challenge systemic issues while delivering pulse-pounding action.

In this installment, Bree must go on the run to rescue her kidnapped love interest, Nick, while grappling with her own unpredictable powers as a Bloodcrafter and Medium. As she faces opposition from the Regents of the Order, she must turn to her ancestors to learn the true meaning of her strength. Ideal for fans of Cassandra Clare and Margaret Rogerson, this book is a great choice for older teens looking for a deep, immersive fantasy world with a strong, relatable protagonist.

Highlights:

• A unique and modern reimagining of King Arthur’s knights and magic.
• Deeply resonant themes of heritage, racism, and self-discovery.
• A compelling love triangle and intense character dynamics.
• High-stakes action involving demons, secret societies, and ancient wars.

Brewed with Love is a charming and cozy sapphic romantasy that invites readers into the magical world of Sage Bishop, a dedicated plant witch. Sage is determined to save her family’s struggling apothecary, Bishop Brews, but her plans are complicated when her ex-best friend and first crush, Ximena Reyes, is hired as the new assistant. When a powerful memory-wiping tonic is stolen under Sage's watch, she must team up with Ximena to track down the thief before the shop is shut down for good. This delightful tale blends small-town mystery with a heartwarming second-chance romance.

Perfect for fans of witchy vibes and sweet romances, this book is an ideal choice for readers who enjoy stories about finding one's path and the magic of first love. Shelly Page crafts a world filled with quirky characters and enchanting potions that will captivate anyone looking for a 'low-stakes' but high-emotion fantasy. It is a great choice for teens who appreciate diverse representation and stories that celebrate family legacy and personal growth.

Highlights:

• A cozy 'romantasy' setting featuring a magical apothecary and unique plant-based spells.
• A heartwarming sapphic second-chance romance between former best friends.
• An engaging mystery involving a stolen potion and a race against time.
• Themes of family responsibility, forgiveness, and self-discovery.

Brown Girl Dreaming is a breathtaking memoir written in mesmerizing verse that captures the heart of Jacqueline Woodson’s childhood. Growing up in the 1960s and 70s, Jacqueline navigates life between the bustling streets of New York and the quiet, river-filled landscapes of South Carolina. This National Book Award winner offers a deeply personal look at what it was like to grow up as an African American during the Civil Rights movement, dealing with the lingering shadows of Jim Crow while searching for a sense of belonging.

This book is ideal for readers interested in history, poetry, and stories of self-discovery. Through vivid imagery and accessible language, Woodson shares her journey of finding her voice as a writer despite struggling with reading as a child. It is a perfect choice for children who love emotional, character-driven stories and parents looking for books that tackle complex social issues with grace and sensitivity. Readers will be inspired by Jacqueline’s perseverance and her beautiful portrayal of family bonds and spiritual growth.

Highlights:

• Written in beautiful, accessible free-verse poetry that is perfect for reluctant readers.
• Explores important historical themes like the Civil Rights movement and Jim Crow laws through a child's eyes.
• A powerful story about overcoming learning struggles and finding one's passion for storytelling.
• Winner of the National Book Award, Newbery Honor, and Coretta Scott King Award.

Celestial Banquet is a breathtaking Young Adult fantasy that blends the high-stakes intensity of The Hunger Games with the culinary artistry of Iron Chef. Set in a vibrant world inspired by Chinese and Southeast Asian folklore, the story follows Cai, a determined noodle chef who enters a legendary cooking competition held by the Major Gods. With the survival of her impoverished hometown on the line, Cai must navigate a cutthroat landscape where the prize is immortality and the penalty for failure is death. This magical adventure is perfect for readers who love stories about resilient heroines, rich cultural traditions, and the powerful ways food connects us to home and family.

As Cai battles impossible odds, she must also contend with her growing feelings for her childhood friend Bo and the mysterious noble Seon. From hunting mystical sea serpents to preparing enchanted dishes from legendary creatures, the trials are as dangerous as they are delicious. This book is an ideal choice for fans of lush world-building and romantic subplots, offering a heartfelt exploration of what it means to fight for your dreams. Readers who enjoy epic adventures with a focus on heritage and heart will find themselves devouring this tale.

Highlights:

• A unique culinary fantasy setting inspired by East Asian folklore and traditions.
• High-stakes competition with life-or-death consequences and magical cooking trials.
• A strong, relatable female protagonist driven by love for her family and community.
• A compelling romantic triangle that adds emotional depth to the action-packed plot.
• Themes of resilience, identity, and the cultural significance of food.

In this explosive sequel to the bestselling Infinity Alchemist, Ash has saved New Anglia from destruction, but his internal battle is only just beginning. Haunted by terrifying nightmares and the ghost of his mother, Ash is convinced that a greater danger looms over the world. As he struggles to master his immense alchemical powers to communicate with the dead, he finds himself caught in the middle of a rising tide of violent anti-alchemist sentiment that threatens to tear society apart.

When Ash is captured by a radical group inspired by his father’s dark legacy, he is forced to make an impossible choice. Alongside his partners Callum and Ramsay, Ash must decide whether to trust the established Houses or embrace his father's path as the leader of a total alchemist revolution. This high-stakes fantasy is perfect for readers who love intricate magic systems, political intrigue, and deeply emotional character arcs. It is an ideal choice for fans of diverse YA fantasy who enjoy stories about finding one's place in a world on the brink of war.

Highlights:

• A thrilling blend of high-stakes alchemy and revolutionary politics.
• Deeply resonant themes of grief, trauma, and self-discovery.
• Compelling LGBTQ+ representation and complex romantic dynamics.
• Expansive world-building that explores social justice and systemic change.

City of the Dead is a pulse-pounding addition to the Maximum Ride universe, following the fierce and winged Hawk as she navigates a crumbling urban landscape. In this high-stakes sequel, Hawk must team up with her legendary mother, Maximum Ride, to face an invisible enemy that threatens to consume their city. As the dead begin to outnumber the living, the duo must reconcile their differences and combine their unique strengths to survive. This action-packed thriller is perfect for children who love fast-paced dystopian adventures and stories about powerful heroines finding their place in a broken world.

Ideal for readers interested in survival stories and complex family dynamics, James Patterson delivers a cinematic reading experience that keeps teens turning pages. The book explores deep themes of legacy, instinct, and the weight of being a hero. It is a great choice for fans of the original Maximum Ride series or anyone looking for a gritty, diverse, and suspenseful urban fantasy. With its relentless pacing and emotional core, it stands out as a must-read for young adults who enjoy high-octane storytelling.

Highlights:

• Features the iconic mother-daughter duo of Maximum Ride and Hawk.
• A gripping dystopian setting filled with suspense and unseen dangers.
• Explores themes of identity, responsibility, and survival.
• Fast-paced chapters perfect for keeping reluctant readers engaged.
• A diverse cast of characters in a high-stakes urban environment.

Clap When You Land is a breathtaking novel-in-verse that explores the profound impact of loss and the unexpected bonds of sisterhood. When a plane crash claims the life of their father, Camino Rios in the Dominican Republic and Yahaira Rios in New York City are left devastated. However, the tragedy unearths a shocking secret: they are sisters who never knew the other existed. This poignant story follows their journey as they navigate grief, anger, and the complicated legacy of the man they both loved.

Elizabeth Acevedo’s lyrical writing makes this an ideal choice for readers interested in emotional contemporary fiction and diverse voices. The dual-perspective narrative provides a rich look at different cultural experiences while highlighting the universal themes of family and forgiveness. It is perfect for teens who love character-driven stories that tackle heavy subjects with grace and beauty. Fans of The Poet X and those looking for powerful stories about identity and resilience will find this book deeply moving.

Highlights:

• A masterfully written novel-in-verse that is both accessible and emotionally resonant.
• Dual perspectives that explore the lives of two sisters separated by distance and secrets.
• Rich cultural representation of the Dominican Republic and the Dominican diaspora in NYC.
• A touching exploration of grief, healing, and the meaning of family.

Jerry Craft returns with Class Act, the highly anticipated companion to the Newbery Medal-winning New Kid. This time, the spotlight shifts to Drew Ellis, an eighth grader at the prestigious Riverdale Academy Day School. While Drew is a talented and hardworking student, he can't help but notice the vast gap between his life and the lives of his more privileged classmates. As he navigates the complexities of being one of the few students of color in his school, Drew must decide if he can bridge the social divide or if the pressure to fit in is too much to handle.

This graphic novel is perfect for children who love relatable stories about school life and the challenges of growing up. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in social justice, diversity, and the nuances of modern friendships. Parents will appreciate the way Craft handles sensitive topics like systemic inequality and self-acceptance with humor and heart, making it a great choice for middle schoolers looking for depth in their reading.

Highlights:

• A powerful exploration of race, privilege, and social class in a school setting.
• Dynamic and expressive graphic novel artwork that brings the characters to life.
• Relatable themes of friendship, identity, and finding one's place in the world.
• A perfect follow-up for fans of New Kid and Smile.

Evie Riley is looking for a fresh start at Camden Academy after a painful heartbreak, but her plans are immediately derailed by a clerical error. Accidentally assigned to an all-boys dorm, Evie finds herself at the center of a whirlwind of rumors and gossip. Instead of hiding, she decides to embrace her new reputation, but she realizes she needs a guide to navigate her "bad girl" persona. Enter Salem Grayson, her grumpy and mysterious dorm mate, who agrees to a unique pact: he will teach her how to break the rules if she helps him find his better side.

As their lessons progress, the lines between their agreement and their feelings begin to blur. Come As You Are is a poignant and witty exploration of identity, gender, and the courage it takes to open your heart again after it has been broken. This contemporary romance is perfect for readers who love the "grumpy-meets-sunshine" trope and stories set in elite boarding schools. It is an ideal choice for fans of inclusive Young Adult fiction that features diverse characters and authentic emotional journeys.

Highlights:

• A charming "opposites attract" romance with a unique "good vs. bad" pact.
• Strong LGBTQ+ and transgender representation in a modern boarding school setting.
• Explores themes of self-acceptance and overcoming social gossip.
• Perfect for fans of Dahlia Adler's witty and inclusive storytelling.