Books about hobbies

Dungeons and Drama is a delightful Young Adult romantic comedy that perfectly blends the high-stakes world of musical theater with the strategic fun of tabletop gaming. When Riley Morris’s dreams of directing the school musical are dashed, she finds herself stuck working at her father’s game store. To navigate her social life and professional ambitions, she strikes a deal with her nerdy co-worker, Nathan. What starts as a classic fake-dating scheme to make their respective exes and crushes jealous soon turns into something much more real as Riley discovers that role-playing games—and Nathan himself—are far more charming than she ever expected.

This book is ideal for readers interested in the "fake dating" trope, theater geeks, and anyone who has ever felt like an outsider in their own family. It’s a great choice for fans of Jenny Han or Emma Lord who enjoy stories about finding love in unexpected places and balancing personal passions with family expectations. With its witty dialogue and relatable characters, it’s the perfect read for teens who love a mix of humor and heart.

Highlights:

• A charming "fake dating" plot that explores the transition from strangers to friends to something more.
• A unique crossover between theater culture and the world of Dungeons & Dragons.
• Relatable themes of navigating family dynamics and pursuing one's creative dreams.
• Witty, fast-paced dialogue perfect for fans of contemporary YA romcoms.

Sunny Lewin is officially a middle schooler, and things are getting complicated! While her best friend Deb is suddenly obsessed with lip gloss, fashion, and acting cool to impress boys, Sunny feels left behind. She isn't sure she wants to trade her interests for makeup and magazines. Everything changes when she discovers the world of Dungeons & Dragons. In the basement with her new friends, Sunny can be a monster-slaying hero without worrying about her hair or her outfit. But can she balance her old friendships with her new passion?

Sunny Rolls the Dice is a heartwarming and hilarious graphic novel that perfectly captures the awkward transition into adolescence. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in 1970s nostalgia, tabletop gaming, and the struggle to stay true to oneself. This book is perfect for children who love the Smile series by Raina Telgemeier or fans of relatable coming-of-age stories that celebrate being unique.

Highlights:

• Relatable middle school drama about friendship and fitting in.
• Introduces the fun and creativity of Dungeons & Dragons.
• Vibrant graphic novel format that appeals to visual learners.
• Set in the groovy 1970s with fun historical details.