Books about forgiveness

Peppi Torres is just trying to survive her first day at Berrybrook Middle School when she makes a huge mistake. In a moment of panic to avoid being teased, she trips a quiet boy named Jamie and runs away. This "awkward" moment haunts her as she tries to find her place in the school's competitive club scene. Joining the Art Club seems like a great idea, but soon she finds herself caught in a fierce rivalry with the Science Club, where Jamie just happens to be a star member.

Svetlana Chmakova's Awkward is a masterclass in middle school dynamics, capturing the genuine anxiety and humor of pre-teen life. It is perfect for children who love graphic novels like Raina Telgemeier's Smile or Victoria Jamieson's Roller Girl. This story is an ideal choice for readers interested in school stories that balance lighthearted comedy with meaningful lessons about kindness, making amends, and standing up for what is right.

Highlights:

• Relatable exploration of social anxiety and middle school "rules."
• Engaging rivalry between the Art Club and the Science Club.
• Diverse cast of characters with distinct personalities and backgrounds.
• Beautifully illustrated panels that bring the school setting to life.

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.

Fake Skating is a heartfelt and banter-filled young adult romantic comedy from #1 New York Times bestselling author Lynn Painter. The story follows Dani, who returns to her Minnesota hometown for her senior year only to find that her childhood best friend, Alec, has transformed from a nerdy kid into a worshipped hockey star. While Dani is dealing with the painful fallout of her parents' divorce, she finds herself forced into a fake relationship with the boy who once promised to never leave her side. This charming "fake dating" story is perfect for readers who love the childhood sweethearts to enemies to lovers trope.

Ideal for fans of sports romances and stories about finding yourself, this novel explores deep emotional territory, including family secrets and the complexities of growing up. Readers who enjoyed Better Than the Movies will find the same witty dialogue and relatable characters here. It is a great choice for teenagers looking for a cozy yet compelling read that balances humor with genuine heart. Whether you are a fan of hockey culture or just love a good slow-burn romance, Dani and Alec’s journey from icy tension to a warm reunion will keep you turning pages until the very end.

Highlights:

• Features the popular fake dating and childhood sweethearts tropes.
• Set in a vibrant, hockey-obsessed small town in Minnesota.
• Explores relatable themes of family divorce and rediscovering identity.
• Perfect for fans of Lynn Painter’s signature witty banter and emotional depth.

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.

In the thrilling conclusion to the Little Thieves trilogy, Vanja finds herself caught between her reputation as a folk hero and a nightmare. After two years of operating as the Pfennigeist, she is framed for a series of royal murders. To clear her name and save the empire from collapse, she must navigate a web of bloody conspiracies and sinister magic. This dark fantasy is perfect for readers who love high-stakes heists, complex anti-heroines, and intricate world-building.

Vanja isn't alone in this fight, though she tries to be. She is forced to reunite with Emeric Conrad, the official who once held her heart. Their journey is a masterclass in character development, exploring themes of forgiveness and the courage to face one's own demons. Ideal for fans of Leigh Bardugo and Sabaa Tahir, this 560-page epic offers a satisfying and emotional end to a beloved series.

Highlights:

• A high-stakes magical mystery involving royal assassinations and political intrigue.
• A compelling romantic dynamic with deep emotional history and tension.
• Richly detailed dark fantasy world inspired by German folklore and fairy tales.
• A powerful exploration of redemption, identity, and choosing your own path.

In "Hope Again", dem vierten Band der erfolgreichen "Again"-Reihe von Mona Kasten, begleiten wir Everly Penn auf einer emotionalen Reise an der Woodshill University. Everly trägt ein schweres Geheimnis mit sich: Sie ist in ihren Dozenten Nolan Gates verliebt. Nolan ist nicht nur intelligent und charmant, sondern auch der Einzige, der Everlys Leidenschaft für das Schreiben wirklich versteht. Doch eine Beziehung zwischen Studentin und Dozent ist tabu und könnte Nolans gesamte Karriere gefährden. Während Everly versucht, ihre Gefühle zu kontrollieren, wird sie von den Geistern ihrer Vergangenheit eingeholt, die sie endlich konfrontieren muss.

Dieses Buch ist die ideale Wahl für Leserinnen und Leser, die emotionale New-Adult-Romane mit Tiefgang suchen. Mona Kasten versteht es meisterhaft, die Zerrissenheit zwischen Pflicht und Verlangen darzustellen. Perfekt für alle, die Geschichten über Heilung, Vertrauen und die Komplexität moderner Beziehungen lieben. Wer nach einer fesselnden College-Romanze sucht, die sowohl Herzschmerz als auch Hoffnung bietet, wird von Everlys und Nolans Geschichte begeistert sein.

Highlights:

• Eine packende "Forbidden Love"-Romanze in einem authentischen College-Setting.
• Tiefgründige Auseinandersetzung mit Themen wie Trauma-Bewältigung und Selbstfindung.
• Sympathische und vielschichtige Charaktere mit hoher Identifikationskraft.
• Emotionaler Schreibstil, der den Leser von der ersten bis zur letzten Seite fesselt.

Insurgent is the high-stakes second installment in Veronica Roth's bestselling dystopian trilogy. Following the world-shattering events of Divergent, Tris Prior finds herself on the run in a fractured Chicago. As war breaks out between the factions, Tris must navigate a landscape of betrayal and secrets while grappling with the heavy burden of grief and the consequences of her previous choices. This action-packed sequel delves deeper into the complex politics of their society, challenging Tris to decide what she is willing to sacrifice for the people she loves.

This book is perfect for readers who love intense, fast-paced narratives with strong female leads and high emotional stakes. It is an ideal choice for fans of The Hunger Games or The Maze Runner who enjoy exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and the moral gray areas of rebellion. Parents will find it a great choice for older teens interested in thought-provoking science fiction that explores social structures and personal responsibility.

Highlights:

• Intense action and suspenseful plot twists that keep readers engaged.
• Deep exploration of emotional themes like forgiveness and self-sacrifice.
• A complex, relatable protagonist navigating a crumbling society.
• Expansion of the unique faction-based world-building.

Karen's Sleepover is a delightful and relatable graphic novel that captures the excitement and occasional drama of a child's first big social event. Karen Brewer is thrilled to host her very first sleepover with her best friends, complete with spooky stories, cookie baking, and late-night snacks. However, things take an unexpected turn when a disagreement with her best friend Nancy leads to a falling out. When Karen invites a new girl, Pamela, to take Nancy's place, she quickly realizes that friendship isn't always easy and that some bonds are worth mending.

This book is perfect for children who love the Baby-sitters Club universe or fans of Raina Telgemeier. It is ideal for readers interested in stories about navigating friendships, managing big emotions, and the ups and downs of growing up. With vibrant illustrations by Katy Farina, this graphic novel makes reading accessible and engaging for transitional readers who are moving into longer stories but still enjoy visual storytelling. It's a great choice for parents looking to discuss conflict resolution and empathy with their children.

Highlights:

• Relatable story about navigating friendship fights and making up.
• Engaging graphic novel format that encourages reluctant readers.
• Explores themes of blended families and social dynamics in a gentle way.
• Part of the popular Baby-sitters Little Sister series.

Set against the sun-drenched backdrop of 1983 Malibu, Malibu Rising follows the four famous Riva siblings as they prepare for their legendary end-of-summer party. Nina, Jay, Hud, and Kit are the children of the world-renowned singer Mick Riva, but behind the glamour of their surfing lifestyle lies a history of abandonment and struggle. Over the course of twenty-four hours, the party spirals out of control, and long-held family secrets finally come to the surface, forcing the siblings to choose what they will keep from their past and what they will leave behind.

This compelling narrative is perfect for older teens who enjoy complex family dynamics and immersive historical settings. It masterfully explores the powerful, unbreakable bonds between siblings and the difficult journey of defining oneself outside of a parent's shadow. Ideal for readers interested in character-driven stories, 80s nostalgia, and emotional dramas, this book is a great choice for those who love stories about resilience and the meaning of home.

Highlights:

• An intense exploration of sibling loyalty and the impact of family secrets.
• A vivid 1980s Malibu setting that captures the essence of surf culture and fame.
• Multi-generational storytelling that connects the parents' past to the children's present.
• Perfect for fans of emotional contemporary fiction and sophisticated coming-of-age themes.

In "Save You", dem zweiten Band der packenden Maxton-Hall-Trilogie von Bestseller-Autorin Mona Kasten, begleiten wir Ruby Bell durch ein emotionales Trümmerfeld. Nachdem James Beaufort ihr Herz in tausend Stücke gerissen hat, wünscht sich Ruby nichts sehnlicher, als in ihre unsichtbare Welt am Maxton Hall College zurückzukehren. Doch James lässt nicht locker und setzt alles daran, Ruby zurückzugewinnen. Die Geschichte ist perfekt für Jugendliche und junge Erwachsene, die hochemotionale Achterbahnfahrten und dramatische Liebesgeschichten in einem exklusiven Setting lieben.

Dieses Buch ist die ideale Wahl für Leserinnen und Leser, die sich für Themen wie Vergebung, soziale Unterschiede und die erste große Liebe interessieren. Mona Kasten schafft es meisterhaft, die Zerrissenheit zwischen tiefem Schmerz und unaufhaltsamer Anziehung darzustellen. Wer den ersten Teil verschlungen hat, wird von dieser Fortsetzung begeistert sein, die noch tiefer in die Abgründe der elitären Welt eintaucht und zeigt, dass wahre Gefühle oft komplizierter sind als gedacht.

Highlights:

• Hochemotionale Fortsetzung der Spiegel-Bestseller-Reihe Maxton Hall
• Fesselnde Dynamik zwischen den Hauptcharakteren Ruby und James
• Einblicke in die Welt der elitären Privatschulen mit all ihren Schattenseiten
• Themen wie Vertrauen, Verrat und die Suche nach dem eigenen Weg

The Hallow Hunt is the pulse-pounding sequel to the bestselling The Revenant Games, delivering a dark and atmospheric adventure perfect for fans of All of Us Villains and Kingdom of the Wicked. After winning the games but losing the trust of the vampire she loves, Bly finds herself in a desperate race against time. To save her sister and escape a death sentence for treason, she must venture into the mysterious Hallow Pool alongside Kerrigan, the very man she betrayed. This high-stakes fantasy explores the thin line between love and hate in a world where witches and vampires rule.

Ideal for readers interested in complex moral dilemmas and enemies-to-lovers tropes, this novel combines intense action with deep emotional stakes. Parents looking for engaging young adult fiction will find this a great choice for teens who enjoy gothic settings, magical lore, and stories about the lengths one will go to for family. With its rich world-building and fast-paced plot, it is a must-read for anyone who loves dark fantasy romances.

Highlights:

• A high-stakes quest through a dangerous, magical forest.
• Complex enemies-to-lovers romance with deep emotional tension.
• Exploration of sisterly bonds and the weight of past betrayals.
• Richly detailed world-building involving vampire and witch mythology.
• Perfect for fans of dark, atmospheric young adult fantasy series.

The Last Bookstore on Earth is a gripping and atmospheric young adult novel that blends the high stakes of a post-apocalyptic world with a tender, slow-burn romance. Set in a future ravaged by climate disasters known as "Storms," seventeen-year-old Liz Flannery has found sanctuary in an abandoned New Jersey bookstore. Her solitary life of trading books for survival is upended when Maeve, a mysterious and prickly newcomer, arrives seeking shelter. As the two girls work together to fortify their haven against an impending cataclysm, they discover that the greatest challenges aren't just the elements, but the secrets and scars they carry from the world before.

This debut novel is perfect for fans of Station Eleven and The Last of Us, offering a unique "sapphic dystopian" experience that balances harrowing survival with hopeful connection. Ideal for readers interested in climate fiction, LGBTQ+ stories, and character-driven adventures, Lily Braun-Arnold crafts a hauntingly beautiful narrative about finding love and purpose at the edge of the world. It is a great choice for teens who enjoy emotional depth, atmospheric settings, and stories about resilience in the face of overwhelming odds.

Highlights:

• A compelling sapphic romance set against a high-stakes dystopian backdrop.
• Explores themes of survival, forgiveness, and the enduring power of literature.
• Perfect for fans of character-driven post-apocalyptic stories like Dry.
• Atmospheric setting in an abandoned bookstore that serves as a sanctuary.

Step through the wardrobe and enter the magical land of Narnia in this captivating adaptation of C.S. Lewis's timeless masterpiece. When four siblings—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—are evacuated to a mysterious country house during the Blitz, they never expected to find a gateway to another world. Narnia is a land frozen in eternal winter by the wicked White Witch, waiting for the return of the Great Lion, Aslan, and the fulfillment of an ancient prophecy. This story is a perfect choice for children who love epic battles, talking animals, and the classic struggle between good and evil.

Ideal for readers interested in portal fantasies and magical adventures, this version brings the beloved characters to life with dramatic flair. Whether it is Lucy's first encounter with Mr. Tumnus or Edmund's tempting encounter with Turkish Delight, the story explores deep themes of betrayal, forgiveness, and bravery. It is a great choice for families to read together or for young readers ready to dive into one of the most celebrated literary worlds ever created.

Highlights:

• An iconic portal fantasy that transports readers to a world of talking beasts and mythical creatures.
• Explores powerful themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the bond between siblings.
• Perfect for fans of The Chronicles of Narnia looking for a concise, dramatic retelling of the classic tale.
• Features the legendary battle between the heroic Aslan and the chilling White Witch.

In the twelfth installment of the sensationally popular Dog Man series, The Scarlet Shedder, our favorite canine superhero faces his most colorful challenge yet! After a smelly encounter with a skunk leads to a tomato juice bath, Dog Man is left with a bright red coat. This unexpected change leads to him being shunned and exiled by the very citizens he has sworn to protect. It is a heartfelt and hilarious tale about what it means to do the right thing even when the world turns its back on you. As Dog Man struggles to find his place, he must decide if he will still save those who have treated him poorly.

Dav Pilkey delivers another masterclass in visual storytelling, blending slapstick humor with surprisingly deep emotional themes. This book is perfect for children who love high-energy action, silly jokes, and the "supa" heroics of the Bark Knight. Ideal for readers interested in graphic novels that tackle complex feelings like rejection and the importance of perseverance, it remains a great choice for reluctant readers who are drawn in by the engaging comic format and vibrant illustrations. Parents will appreciate the positive messages about empathy and resilience woven into the fast-paced plot.

Highlights:

• A hilarious and touching story about redemption and staying true to oneself.
• Features the beloved characters from the Dog Man and Cat Kid universes.
• Perfect for fans of Captain Underpants and InvestiGators.
• Engaging graphic novel format that builds reading confidence in young fans.
• Explores meaningful themes of social exclusion and forgiveness in an accessible way.

The Tale of Despereaux is a Newbery Medal-winning masterpiece by Kate DiCamillo that weaves together the lives of three unlikely heroes. Despereaux Tilling is a tiny mouse with oversized ears who defies the rules of his community by falling in love with music, stories, and a human princess. His journey takes him from the depths of a rat-infested dungeon to the heights of a glittering castle, proving that even the smallest creature can possess the greatest courage. This enchanting story is perfect for children who love classic fairy tales with a modern twist and readers interested in themes of bravery and forgiveness.

Ideal for fans of Charlotte's Web or The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane, this book is a great choice for parents looking for a sophisticated read-aloud or for independent readers who enjoy rich, lyrical prose. The narrator’s direct address to the "Gentle Reader" creates an intimate experience that draws children into a world where light and dark collide. It is a timeless story about the power of hope and the importance of following one's heart, even when the world seems set against you.

Highlights:

• A multi-perspective narrative that beautifully intertwines three distinct storylines.
• Explores deep emotional themes like forgiveness, empathy, and the quest for light.
• Features a brave and unique animal protagonist that children will instantly root for.
• Winner of the prestigious Newbery Medal for excellence in children's literature.

In the heart-wrenching conclusion to the New York Times bestselling trilogy, Belly must finally face the ultimate choice that will change her life forever. After two years of stability with Jeremiah, she believes she has found her soul mate and is ready to commit to a future together. However, the shadow of her first love, Conrad, still looms large. As wedding bells approach, Belly is forced to confront her deepest feelings and decide which brother truly holds her heart, knowing that her choice will inevitably break one of theirs.

This novel is perfect for readers who love high-stakes emotional drama, complex love triangles, and stories about the difficult transition from adolescence to adulthood. It is an ideal choice for fans of Jenny Han’s other works, such as To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before, and for viewers of the hit Prime Video series. Parents looking for engaging contemporary fiction for older teens will find this a compelling exploration of loyalty, family dynamics, and the bittersweet nature of growing up.

Highlights:

• The dramatic and highly anticipated conclusion to The Summer I Turned Pretty trilogy.
• Explores deep emotional themes of first love, forgiveness, and self-identity.
• Features bonus content including heartfelt letters from Conrad to Belly.
• A relatable coming-of-age story that resonates with older teen readers.