Books about grief

Gayle Forman, the acclaimed author of If I Stay, returns with a haunting and deeply emotional story that blurs the lines between life and death. When Amber arrives home on her bicycle one spring afternoon, it seems like a normal day—except for the fact that Amber died seven years ago. Her sudden, inexplicable return sends shockwaves through her small community, forcing her sister, her estranged parents, and her former boyfriend to confront the grief they thought they had processed. This poignant novel explores the ripple effects of a single life and the complicated nature of second chances.

Perfect for readers who enjoy high-concept contemporary fiction with a supernatural twist, After Life is an ideal choice for fans of emotional journeys and complex family dynamics. It is a great choice for those who loved The Lovely Bones or Elsewhere, offering a unique perspective on how we remember those we've lost and how we define ourselves in the wake of tragedy. As Amber struggles to understand why she has been brought back, readers are invited to reflect on the lasting impact of love and the mystery of the human spirit.

Highlights:

• A gripping supernatural premise grounded in realistic emotional stakes.
• Explores profound themes of grief, healing, and family reconciliation.
• Written by best-selling author Gayle Forman, known for powerful YA storytelling.
• Perfect for fans of character-driven stories with a touch of mystery.

All We Lost Was Everything is a gripping, dark romantic thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. After eighteen-year-old River Santos loses her father and her home in a devastating fire, her life is turned upside down. When an anonymous donor leaves two million dollars in her GoFundMe, River is thrust into a world of suspicion and wealth she never asked for. Working at a local diner to maintain some sense of normalcy, she finds herself drawn to her standoffish coworker, Logan Evans, despite his initial hostility.

As River digs deeper into her family's past and the source of the mysterious donation, she discovers that those she trusted most—including her late father and her absent mother—were keeping dangerous secrets. This novel is perfect for fans of Binding 13 and readers who love high-stakes mysteries blended with intense romance. It is an ideal choice for young adults looking for a story about resilience, betrayal, and the search for truth in the wake of tragedy.

Highlights:

• A "worst sort of lottery" premise involving a mysterious two-million-dollar donation.
• Compelling romantic tension between River and the secretive, standoffish Logan.
• A dark, atmospheric mystery filled with shocking family revelations and twists.
• Explores deep emotional themes of grief, loss, and rebuilding one's identity.

Are You Listening? is a hauntingly beautiful graphic novel that blends the raw emotions of real life with the surreal elements of magical realism. When Bea, a runaway, crosses paths with Lou, their chance encounter turns into a transformative road trip across the shifting landscapes of West Texas. As the world around them begins to morph in strange and unsettling ways, the two women find themselves pursued by mysterious men and accompanied by a stray cat that seems to know more than it lets on. This Eisner Award-winning story is a profound exploration of how we navigate the most difficult parts of our pasts.

Ideal for readers interested in deeply emotional narratives, this book tackles heavy subjects like grief, trauma, and sexual assault with grace and sensitivity. It is a perfect choice for fans of Tillie Walden's other works, such as Spinning and On a Sunbeam, or for anyone who loves graphic novels that push the boundaries of the medium. Parents and educators should note that while the story is incredibly rewarding, it deals with mature themes suited for older teens. It is a great choice for readers who appreciate atmospheric art and stories that prioritize character connection and healing.

Highlights:

• Stunning, atmospheric illustrations by Eisner Award winner Tillie Walden.
• A poignant exploration of LGBTQ+ identity and female friendship.
• A unique blend of road-trip adventure and magical realism.
• A powerful story about confronting trauma and finding the strength to heal.

In the haunting sequel to Beautiful Creatures, Ethan Wate finds himself navigating a world that is darker and more dangerous than he ever imagined. Following a tragic loss, Lena Duchannes begins to withdraw, her powers becoming unpredictable as she struggles with the dual nature of her Caster heritage. This atmospheric Southern Gothic tale is perfect for teens who love stories filled with ancient secrets, supernatural mysteries, and high-stakes romance. As Ethan delves deeper into the hidden history of Gatlin, he must decide how far he is willing to go to save the girl he loves from the shadows consuming her.

Ideal for readers interested in paranormal fantasy and complex character development, Beautiful Darkness expands the rich mythology of the Caster world. It is a great choice for fans of the Twilight saga or The Mortal Instruments who are looking for a more grounded, atmospheric setting. The emotional depth and exploration of grief make it a compelling read for older teens who enjoy stories where the line between good and evil is blurred.

Highlights:

• Deep exploration of Southern Gothic atmosphere and mythology
• Compelling emotional journey focusing on grief and identity
• Intense supernatural mystery with high stakes
• Perfect for fans of dark paranormal romance

Blood Promise is the gripping fourth installment in Richelle Mead’s internationally bestselling Vampire Academy series. Following the devastating events of the previous book, Rose Hathaway must leave the safety of St. Vladimir’s Academy and her best friend Lissa behind. She embarks on a dangerous solo journey across Russia to fulfill a heartbreaking promise: to find and kill the man she loves, Dimitri Belikov, who has been transformed into a soulless Strigoi. This high-stakes urban fantasy is perfect for readers who crave intense action, deep emotional stakes, and complex supernatural lore.

Ideal for fans of dark paranormal romance and fast-paced adventures, this novel explores the heavy burden of duty and the lengths one will go for love. Parents should note that this entry in the series deals with more mature themes of grief and sacrifice, making it a great choice for older teens who enjoy character-driven stories with a strong, resilient female lead. Whether your teen is already a fan of the series or looking for a compelling supernatural epic, Rose’s journey is sure to keep them turning pages late into the night.

Highlights:

• A thrilling international setting as Rose travels through the heart of Russia.
• Deep exploration of loyalty and the emotional consequences of difficult choices.
• Intense action sequences and high-stakes supernatural conflict.
• A powerful character arc for a fierce and determined female protagonist.

Boys with Sharp Teeth is a gripping and atmospheric debut that reimagines the classic tale of The Picture of Dorian Gray within the shadows of an elite boarding school. Seventeen-year-old Marin James is driven by a singular, cold purpose: revenge. After her cousin is found dead on the grounds of the exclusive Huntsworth Academy, Marin is certain that the school’s charismatic yet dangerous social leaders, Adrian and Henry, are responsible. To find the truth, she must infiltrate their world, posing as a student to dismantle their lives from the inside.

As Marin descends into the ivied halls of Huntsworth, she discovers that the truth is far more terrifying than she imagined. Drawn into a web of otherworldly secrets and twisted desires, she finds the lines between justice and vengeance beginning to blur. This dark fantasy is perfect for readers who love gothic mysteries, high-stakes drama, and stories where the monsters are as alluring as they are deadly. It is an ideal choice for fans of The Raven Boys and We Were Liars who crave a lush, suspenseful narrative filled with moral complexity.

Highlights:

• A dark and atmospheric reimagining of a classic literary masterpiece.
• Intense themes of revenge, justice, and the cost of secrets.
• A suspenseful dark academia setting filled with mystery and paranormal elements.
• Complex characters and a high-stakes plot that keeps readers guessing.
• Perfect for older teens who enjoy gothic romance and psychological thrillers.

Bridge to Terabithia is a timeless masterpiece that explores the profound power of friendship and the resilience of the human spirit. Jess Aarons, a boy who feels like an outsider in his own family, finds an unexpected soulmate in Leslie Burke, the new girl who can outrun every boy in the fifth grade. Together, they escape the pressures of school and home by creating Terabithia, a secret kingdom in the woods where they reign as king and queen. This classic novel is perfect for children who love stories about deep friendships and the magic of imagination.

As Jess and Leslie's bond grows, they navigate the challenges of growing up, from school bullies to family expectations. However, when a sudden tragedy strikes, Jess must find the strength to carry on and honor the legacy of the world they built together. Ideal for readers interested in emotional, character-driven stories, this Newbery Medal winner offers a poignant look at grief and healing. It is a great choice for parents looking to introduce their children to literature that handles complex emotions with grace and honesty.

Highlights:

• A moving exploration of childhood friendship and the power of imagination.
• Winner of the prestigious Newbery Medal and a true touchstone of children’s literature.
• Helps young readers navigate complex themes of loss and emotional resilience.
• Perfect for fans of realistic fiction with deep emotional resonance and heart.

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.

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.

In the fourth installment of the hit graphic novel series, Cleopatra in Space: The Golden Lion, our young hero faces her most personal challenge yet. After the tragic events on planet Hykosis, Cleo is struggling with the weight of responsibility and the loss of her friend, Zaid. To cope, she throws herself into intense training at Yasiro Academy, but her focus is soon shifted when a dangerous new threat emerges. The Golden Lion—an ancient star with the power to destroy entire worlds—has been found, and Cleo must race to the frozen planet of Cada'duun to prevent it from falling into the wrong hands.

This action-packed adventure is perfect for children who love fast-paced storytelling, space exploration, and strong female leads. Ideal for readers interested in ancient history mixed with futuristic technology, Mike Maihack’s vibrant illustrations and witty dialogue bring the galaxy to life. It is a great choice for fans of the animated series on Hulu and Peacock, as well as those who enjoy series like Amulet or Zita the Spacegirl. The story masterfully balances high-stakes sci-fi action with emotional depth, exploring themes of grief and resilience.

Highlights:

• Thrilling space-faring adventure with a unique historical twist.
• Explores meaningful themes of loss, healing, and personal growth.
• Stunning full-color artwork that captures the energy of the cosmos.
• Features a brave and relatable protagonist who learns the value of teamwork.

Crescendo is the gripping second installment in Becca Fitzpatrick’s bestselling Hush, Hush saga. Following the intense events of the first book, Nora Grey finds herself caught in a whirlwind of doubt and danger. Despite her deep connection with her guardian angel, Patch, Nora begins to question his motives and his mysterious past. As she uncovers dark secrets about her own family and the ongoing war between the Nephilim and the fallen angels, the stakes have never been higher. This atmospheric sequel is perfect for readers who love high-stakes supernatural drama and complex, brooding romances.

Ideal for fans of urban fantasy and dark mysteries, this novel explores themes of trust and betrayal in a world where nothing is as it seems. Parents looking for engaging young adult fiction will find this a great choice for teens who enjoy immersive world-building and suspenseful plot twists. With its blend of paranormal elements and emotional depth, it is a must-read for those who were captivated by the first book and are eager to see Nora’s journey continue.

Highlights:

• Intense paranormal romance and supernatural conflict.
• A suspenseful mystery involving family secrets and hidden identities.
• Atmospheric setting and high-stakes emotional drama.
• Perfect for fans of the Twilight saga and Fallen series.

Deadstream is a gripping and sinister YA thriller that blends the suspense of a classic mystery with the chilling atmosphere of modern supernatural horror. After a tragic car accident leaves her grieving and confined to her bedroom by agoraphobia, Teresa finds her only connection to the world through the glowing screens of online livestreams. However, her digital sanctuary is shattered when she witnesses a terrifying paranormal entity claim the life of a popular streamer in front of thousands of viewers. As the entity begins to infiltrate other streams and eventually targets her own, Teresa is forced to confront her deepest fears and step beyond the safety of her walls to stop a relentless digital haunting.

This novel is perfect for teens who love high-stakes thrillers and stories that explore the dark side of social media. Ideal for readers interested in supernatural mysteries and psychological suspense, it offers a poignant look at trauma and the journey toward healing. Fans of The Ring or Rear Window will find themselves captivated by the eerie atmosphere and the urgent, life-or-death investigation at the heart of the story.

Highlights:

• A unique blend of supernatural horror and modern digital culture.
• A powerful exploration of agoraphobia, grief, and mental health resilience.
• Fast-paced, high-stakes mystery that keeps readers guessing.
• Relatable themes of finding courage in the face of overwhelming fear.

Everything I Promised You is a deeply moving and emotionally resonant novel that explores the complexities of first love and the devastating impact of loss. Perfect for readers who enjoy the heart-wrenching storytelling of Laura Nowlin or Jennifer Niven, this contemporary Young Adult romance follows Lia, a girl whose life has been shaped by a family legend and a destined love. When her best friend and soulmate, Beck, is suddenly taken from her, Lia must navigate a world that no longer makes sense, questioning her identity and whether she can ever find happiness again.

This book is an ideal choice for teenagers and parents looking for stories that handle heavy topics like grief and acceptance with grace and authenticity. Katy Upperman crafts a beautiful narrative about the 'army-brat' lifestyle, the weight of expectations, and the slow, painful process of healing. It is a great choice for readers interested in realistic fiction that doesn't shy away from the messy parts of growing up and moving on after heartbreak.

Highlights:

• A poignant exploration of grief and the journey toward emotional healing.
• A compelling 'destined to be' romance with a tragic and realistic twist.
• Authentic representation of military family life and the challenges of frequent moves.
• Perfect for fans of emotional contemporary YA like If He Had Been with Me.

Fearless is the breathtaking conclusion to Lauren Roberts' bestselling Powerless trilogy, a high-stakes "romantasy" that has captivated readers worldwide. Set in the Kingdom of Ilya, the story follows Paedyn Gray and Kai Azer as they face their final, life-altering choices. This epic finale blends intense action with a slow-burn romance, exploring the ultimate battle between love and loyalty in a world divided by power and class. It is a perfect choice for older teens and young adults who enjoy immersive world-building and emotionally charged narratives.

Ideal for readers interested in dystopian settings and dark fantasy, this 528-page novel delivers a satisfying resolution to the complex character arcs of Paedyn and Kai. Parents looking for books for readers who love The Hunger Games or Fourth Wing will find this series to be a compelling next step. With its focus on sacrifice, grief, and the weight of destiny, Fearless offers a sophisticated reading experience that explores what it truly means to be brave in the face of impossible odds.

Highlights:

• The thrilling conclusion to the #1 bestselling Powerless trilogy.
• A complex "enemies-to-lovers" romance with high emotional stakes.
• Richly developed dystopian world featuring themes of class struggle and survival.
• Perfect for fans of epic fantasy and romantic adventure.

First Love Language is a heartwarming and poignant Young Adult debut that beautifully blends a charming romantic comedy with a deep exploration of cultural identity. Catie Carlson, a Taiwanese American teen raised in a white family, has always felt like a piece of her puzzle was missing. When she strikes a deal with her coworker Toby—Mandarin lessons in exchange for dating coaching—she embarks on a journey that is as much about finding her biological roots as it is about finding first love. Using her late father’s annotated copy of The Five Love Languages, Catie navigates the complexities of the heart while uncovering the truth about her past.

This novel is perfect for readers who love 'fake dating' tropes with a meaningful twist. It is an ideal choice for fans of Frankly in Love and Tokyo Ever After, offering a profound look at transracial adoption, grief, and the courage it takes to be vulnerable. Parents and teens alike will appreciate the luminous storytelling and the authentic portrayal of a young woman reclaiming her heritage. Whether you are looking for a sweet summer romance or a moving story about family bonds, this book delivers an unforgettable experience.

Highlights:

• A touching exploration of transracial adoption and cultural heritage.
• A sweet and funny 'dating coach' romance with a Mandarin-learning twist.
• Deeply emotional themes of grief and reconnecting with a late parent's legacy.
• Perfect for fans of contemporary YA authors like Jenny Han and David Yoon.

For No Mortal Creature is a breathtaking romantic gothic fantasy that transports readers to a world where the line between life and death is dangerously thin. When Jia Yi discovers she has the rare ability to move between realms, she is thrust into a mysterious spirit world filled with ghosts and secrets. This atmospheric tale is perfect for readers who love dark, immersive fantasies and stories inspired by classic literature like Wuthering Heights.

As Jia Yi journeys into the afterlife to rescue her beloved grandmother, she must navigate a complex web of betrayal and desire. Forced to rely on her former love, Lin, and her cold enemy, Prince Essien, Jia Yi faces impossible choices that threaten both her soul and her heart. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in high-stakes adventures, complex character dynamics, and beautifully haunting world-building that lingers long after the final page.

Highlights:

• A unique, gothic-inspired exploration of the afterlife and the spirit realm.
• Compelling romantic tension involving two enigmatic and dangerous rivals.
• A strong female protagonist driven by family loyalty and courage.
• Rich, atmospheric prose that captures the essence of classic gothic fiction.

His Mortal Demise is the explosive and heart-wrenching conclusion to The Last Bloodcarver duology. Set in a lush, Vietnam-inspired fantasy world, this story follows Kochin, a rare healer known as a heartsooth, who is driven to the brink of madness by grief. Desperate to bring his beloved Nhika back from the dead, Kochin embarks on a perilous journey to a battle-torn island to uncover the grisly secrets of resurrection. This novel is perfect for fans of Chloe Gong and Marie Lu who enjoy high-stakes romance and intricate world-building.

As Nhika awakens in a world transformed by war, she must trace Kochin's haunting footsteps to understand the price he paid for her life. With a unique medical magic system and dual perspectives, the story explores the thin line between love and obsession. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in dark fantasy and moral dilemmas that test the limits of the human heart.

Highlights:

• A unique and riveting medical magic system.
• A rich, atmospheric setting inspired by Vietnamese culture and history.
• Intense emotional stakes exploring grief, sacrifice, and resurrection.
• Compelling dual-POV narrative that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter is a powerful and poignant Young Adult novel that explores the complexities of growing up between two cultures. Julia is a sharp-tongued, rebellious teenager who doesn't fit the "perfect daughter" mold that her sister, Olga, once filled. When Olga dies in a tragic accident, Julia is left to navigate her mother's overwhelming grief and the crushing weight of family expectations. This gritty yet hopeful story is ideal for readers interested in diverse voices and authentic portrayals of the first-generation American experience.

As Julia begins to uncover secrets about her sister’s life, she realizes that Olga might not have been the perfect daughter everyone believed. This journey of discovery leads Julia toward her own path of healing and self-acceptance. Perfect for fans of The Hate U Give or The Poet X, this book is a great choice for older teens looking for a story that tackles mental health, cultural identity, and the pursuit of one's dreams despite the odds.

Highlights:

• A raw and honest look at grief and family dynamics in a Mexican American household.
• Explores themes of identity, mental health, and the pressure to conform.
• Features a strong, relatable protagonist who finds her voice through writing.
• Perfect for readers who enjoy contemporary realistic fiction with emotional depth.

I Kill Giants is a powerful and emotionally resonant graphic novel that follows Barbara Thorson, a sharp-tongued fifth-grader who marches to the beat of her own drum. While her peers are interested in pop culture and social status, Barbara is busy preparing for battle against the giants she believes are coming to destroy her world. Armed with her trusty warhammer, Coveleski, she navigates a life of isolation and misunderstanding, leaving readers to wonder if the monsters she hunts are real or manifestations of a deeper internal struggle.

This award-winning story is perfect for children who love urban fantasy mixed with realistic emotional depth. As the narrative unfolds, the true nature of Barbara's "giants" is revealed, offering a poignant exploration of grief, escapism, and the courage it takes to face the hardest parts of reality. Ideal for readers interested in complex characters and visual storytelling, this book provides a unique bridge between high-stakes fantasy and the raw honesty of growing up.

Highlights:

• A deeply moving exploration of how children use imagination to cope with trauma and loss.
• Stunning, expressive artwork that captures both the mundane and the epic.
• A strong, unconventional female protagonist who challenges social norms.
• A great choice for fans of A Monster Calls or Bridge to Terabithia.

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.

Into The Deep Blue is a moving and lyrical contemporary novel that follows Nick and Fiona, two best friends who are bound together by a shared, devastating tragedy: the unexpected loss of their mothers during their senior year of high school. While Nick has closed himself off from the idea of happy endings, Fiona struggles with a sense of numbness that makes her question if they have anything left in common besides their pain. As they navigate the complexities of their final year, they must decide if their bond is strong enough to evolve into something more, or if the weight of their grief will pull them apart.

This book is perfect for children who love emotional, character-driven stories and is an ideal choice for readers interested in dual-perspective narratives. Fans of Nicola Yoon and John Green will find this tale of heartache and healing particularly resonant. It is a great choice for older teens looking for a story that treats the subjects of loss and recovery with deep sensitivity and hope. Archer’s spitfire pacing and rich character development make this a compelling read for anyone who enjoys realistic fiction that explores the messy, beautiful reality of growing up.

Highlights:

• A poignant dual-POV narrative that explores the depths of teenage grief.
• Perfect for fans of emotional contemporary authors like Nicola Yoon and John Green.
• A realistic portrayal of the transition from friendship to romance amidst personal tragedy.
• Themes of hope and healing that provide a light at the end of a dark tunnel.

In this poignant sequel to The Summer I Turned Pretty, Belly finds herself facing a summer that feels nothing like the ones before. After Susannah's illness returns and her relationship with Conrad falters, the magic of Cousins Beach seems to have vanished. When Conrad goes missing, Belly and Jeremiah must team up to find him, leading them back to the beach house where everything began. This emotional journey explores the messy reality of growing up, the weight of grief, and the complicated nature of first love.

Perfect for readers who love emotional contemporary fiction and complex love triangles, this novel is an ideal choice for fans of Sarah Dessen or those who enjoyed the To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before series. Jenny Han masterfully captures the bittersweet transition from adolescence to adulthood, making it a great choice for teens looking for a story that balances romance with deep, relatable emotional stakes. It is a must-read for anyone interested in stories about family bonds and finding one's way through heartbreak.

Highlights:

• The emotional second installment in the blockbuster The Summer I Turned Pretty trilogy.
• Deep exploration of grief, healing, and the evolution of childhood friendships.
• A compelling and realistic portrayal of a complicated love triangle.
• Atmospheric storytelling that perfectly captures the feeling of a life-changing summer.

King and the Dragonflies is a powerful and emotionally resonant novel by Kacen Callender that explores the complexities of grief, identity, and friendship in the American South. Twelve-year-old Kingston "King" Bellamy is convinced that his older brother Khalid, who unexpectedly passed away, has transformed into a dragonfly. As King navigates his profound sense of loss, he must also grapple with his own identity and the expectations of those around him in his small Louisiana town.

When King’s former best friend, Sandy, goes missing, King finds him hiding in his backyard to escape an abusive home. As the two boys hide away, they form a deep bond that allows them to confront their secrets and the truth about who they are. This National Book Award-winning story is ideal for readers interested in lyrical prose and deeply moving narratives that tackle tough subjects with grace and sensitivity. It is a perfect choice for children who love stories about self-discovery and the enduring power of friendship.

Highlights:

• A poignant exploration of grief and the healing process.
• Important themes of LGBTQ+ identity and self-acceptance.
• Richly atmospheric setting in rural Louisiana.
• A beautiful story about the courage to be your true self.

Legendborn is a gripping contemporary fantasy that breathes new life into the King Arthur legend. After the sudden death of her mother, sixteen-year-old Bree Matthews seeks a fresh start at a residential program for bright high schoolers at UNC–Chapel Hill. However, her first night on campus reveals a hidden world of demons and a secret society of "Legendborn" students who hunt them. When a mysterious mage fails to wipe Bree’s memory, she discovers her own unique magic and a shocking connection to her mother’s past. This award-winning novel is perfect for readers who love high-stakes urban fantasy and stories that blend ancient myths with modern-day social issues.

Ideal for fans of The Mortal Instruments or Percy Jackson looking for a more mature, diverse perspective, Tracy Deonn’s debut is a searing tale of grief, power, and self-discovery. It masterfully braids together Southern folk traditions and "Black Girl Magic" into a fast-paced mystery. Whether you are interested in secret societies, Arthurian lore, or complex character growth, this book is a great choice for young adult readers who want a story that is both magical and deeply grounded in real-world history.

Highlights:

• A unique reimagining of Arthurian legend set on a modern college campus.
• Explores powerful themes of ancestral trauma, grief, and identity.
• Winner of the Coretta Scott King - John Steptoe for New Talent Author Award.
• Features a strong, relatable Black female protagonist discovering her heritage.
• Perfect for fans of intricate magic systems and high-stakes mystery.