Books about survival

A Burning in the Bones is the pulse-pounding conclusion to Scott Reintgen’s bestselling Waxways series. In this final installment, Ren and Theo find themselves at the center of a political storm as they attempt to reform the corrupt system of Kathor. However, their plans are derailed by a mysterious and deadly plague that threatens to consume the city. With corpses appearing in strategic locations and magic itself under threat, the stakes have never been higher for the survivors of House Brood.

This epic finale is perfect for children and teens who love high-stakes fantasy and intricate world-building. Ideal for readers interested in political maneuvering, dark mysteries, and stories where the cost of survival is high. Parents will find this a great choice for fans of Leigh Bardugo or Sabaa Tahir, offering a sophisticated narrative that explores themes of power, corruption, and the strength of found family. It is an edge-of-your-seat adventure that rewards long-time followers of the series with a satisfying and intense resolution.

Highlights:

• The thrilling conclusion to the acclaimed Waxways trilogy.
• A complex blend of political intrigue and dark magical mystery.
• High-stakes action featuring a race against a city-wide plague.
• Deep exploration of loyalty, sacrifice, and the weight of leadership.

A Court of Thorns and Roses is a captivating blend of high fantasy and intense romance, perfect for readers who love immersive world-building and complex characters. When nineteen-year-old Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, she is dragged into a magical, dangerous realm by a mysterious faerie lord named Tamlin. What begins as a captive's struggle for survival soon evolves into a passionate journey of discovery, as Feyre learns that the legends she grew up fearing are far more complicated than she ever imagined.

This book is an ideal choice for older teens and fans of Beauty and the Beast retellings who are looking for a story filled with magic, political intrigue, and high-stakes adventure. Sarah J. Maas crafts a world where the lines between hero and villain are blurred, making it a great choice for readers interested in character-driven epics. As Feyre uncovers a dark shadow threatening the faerie lands, she must find the strength to fight for her new home and the people she has grown to love.

Highlights:

• A thrilling reimagining of classic fairy tale tropes with a mature twist.
• Richly detailed world-building featuring the diverse courts of the Fae.
• A strong, resilient female protagonist who undergoes significant growth.
• Perfect for fans of epic fantasy series like The Cruel Prince or Throne of Glass.

A Dangerous Path is the gripping fifth installment in the beloved Warrior Cats series, where the stakes for the forest clans have never been higher. As Fireheart steps up to lead ThunderClan during a time of great uncertainty, he must navigate the challenges of a leader who is losing her grip on reality and a former ally who has become a deadly enemy. This dramatic adventure is perfect for children who love epic animal fantasies and stories filled with high-stakes action and complex social dynamics.

Ideal for readers interested in survival stories and intricate world-building, this book explores deep themes of duty and the weight of leadership. With a pack of renegade dogs threatening the very existence of the clan and the looming threat of Tigerclaw's revenge, fans of the series will be on the edge of their seats. It is a great choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy series like Wings of Fire or Redwall, offering a rich, immersive experience that keeps them turning pages long after lights out.

Highlights:

• High-stakes survival adventure featuring a unique society of wild cats.
• Explores complex themes of leadership, loyalty, and the burden of responsibility.
• Perfect for fans of epic animal fantasy series with deep lore and character development.
• Tense pacing with a mix of internal clan politics and external physical threats.

A Door in the Dark is a gripping dark academia fantasy thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. When a portal spell goes horribly wrong, Ren Monroe and five other teenage wizards find themselves stranded in a brutal wilderness far from the safety of Balmerick University. With limited magic and one of their classmates already dead, the group must rely on Ren’s lifelong survival skills to navigate the treacherous woods. However, the physical dangers are only the beginning, as deep-seated secrets and personal rivalries threaten to tear the group apart from within.

This pulse-pounding adventure is perfect for readers who love Naomi Novik’s The Scholomance series or Leigh Bardugo’s Ninth House. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in high-stakes survival stories, complex magic systems, and the atmospheric 'dark academia' aesthetic. Parents looking for a mature, thought-provoking fantasy for their teens will find this a compelling pick that explores themes of class, trust, and the cost of ambition. It is a great choice for those who love a mix of mystery and magic in a survivalist setting.

Highlights:

• A high-stakes dark academia survival thriller with a unique magic system.
• Explores complex social dynamics between elite and scholarship students.
• Perfect for readers who enjoy intense, atmospheric fantasy with a touch of horror.
• Features a strong, resourceful female protagonist driven by grit and determination.

Step into the chilling and atmospheric world of Alice, a gripping installment in Joseph Delaney's acclaimed series. This dark fantasy novel follows Alice, a powerful young witch who has long fought alongside the Spook and Tom Ward. Now, she finds herself trapped alone in the terrifying realm of the dark, surrounded by the very creatures she once helped banish. To save the world from eternal despair, Alice must embark on a perilous quest to find the final weapon capable of destroying the Fiend once and for all.

This book is a perfect choice for readers who love high-stakes adventures and eerie, supernatural settings. It explores deep themes of sacrifice and the thin line between light and dark, making it an ideal pick for fans of dark folklore and epic battles. Parents looking for a compelling story about a strong female protagonist facing impossible odds will find this a great choice for their teens. It is a masterclass in building tension and exploring the consequences of one's choices in the face of overwhelming evil.

Highlights:

• A dark and immersive journey through a supernatural underworld.
• Features a complex and courageous female lead character.
• High-stakes conflict involving ancient magic and legendary villains.
• Perfect for readers who enjoy spooky, atmospheric fantasy series.

Mary Addison killed a baby. Allegedly. After spending years in a group home for a crime she may or may not have committed, Mary is now a teenager facing an impossible future. When she discovers she is pregnant, the stakes become higher than ever. To keep her baby and find a path to a real life, she must confront the secrets of her past and prove that the truth is far more complicated than the headlines suggested. This is a haunting, gritty, and deeply emotional psychological thriller that explores the flaws in the justice system and the weight of a labeled past.

Perfect for readers who love dark, thought-provoking mysteries and unreliable narrators, Allegedly is a gripping choice for fans of intense contemporary fiction. It is an ideal pick for those interested in social justice, complex character studies, and stories that challenge your perceptions of right and wrong. Tiffany D. Jackson delivers a powerhouse narrative that will keep readers guessing until the very last page, making it a great choice for book clubs and mature teen readers looking for a story with real-world weight.

Highlights:

• A masterfully crafted unreliable narrator that keeps readers questioning everything.
• A raw and unflinching look at the juvenile justice system and group home life.
• Deeply emotional themes regarding motherhood, trauma, and the search for truth.
• A shocking, high-stakes plot that is impossible to put down.

In the final installment of Madeleine L'Engle's legendary A Wrinkle in Time Quintet, Polly O'Keefe finds herself caught in a temporal rift that transports her 3,000 years into the past. While visiting her grandparents, the renowned scientists Alex and Kate Murry, Polly accidentally steps through a "gate" between circles of time. She is not alone, however; she is accompanied by her friend Zachary, whose grave illness adds a desperate layer of urgency to their prehistoric survival. This rich and heady brew of science fiction and ancient druidic lore explores the thin veil between the past and the present.

This book is a perfect choice for readers who love complex narratives that blend scientific theory with mystical fantasy. Ideal for fans of A Wrinkle in Time who are ready for more mature themes, it offers a thought-provoking look at how our actions ripple through time. Parents looking for high-quality literature with strong moral foundations and intellectual depth will find this a great choice for their teens. It is a masterful conclusion to a series that has captivated generations of readers.

Highlights:

• A thrilling time-travel adventure set in the ancient past.
• Deep exploration of friendship, sacrifice, and the interconnectedness of time.
• Features the beloved Murry family legacy and the next generation of heroes.
• Perfect for readers interested in druidic history and speculative science.

Set in a fractured future where the former United States is divided into two desperate nations, Andromache follows the journey of Andromache Kanoska. Chosen as a bride for the technologically advanced but humanly depleted Eastern Federation, she must navigate a world of high-stakes politics and dangerous secrets. This gripping dystopian tale is perfect for readers who love stories of survival, complex moral dilemmas, and high-stakes romance in a post-apocalyptic setting. It is an ideal choice for fans of intense world-building and character-driven narratives.

As Andromache competes in rigorous challenges to prove her worth as the next Eastern Consort, she discovers a dark truth about the people in power. Her only hope lies in Denzel Xavier, the future Elector, but in a world built on lies, trust is a dangerous commodity. She must decide whether to protect her own life or risk everything to save those the Federation deems expendable. Great for readers interested in social justice themes and romantic suspense, this novel explores identity and the value of human life in a world where technology often outweighs humanity.

Highlights:

• A compelling post-apocalyptic setting with rich world-building.
• A strong female protagonist facing difficult moral and ethical choices.
• An intriguing blend of political intrigue and romantic tension.
• Deep exploration of social inequality and the ethics of advanced technology.
• Perfect for fans of high-stakes dystopian series and romantic thrillers.

Ark Angel is the pulse-pounding sixth installment in the world-renowned Alex Rider series. After narrowly surviving a sniper's bullet, teenage superspy Alex Rider finds himself in an exclusive hospital, hoping for a quiet recovery. However, trouble follows Alex everywhere. When he thwarts a kidnapping attempt on a fellow patient—the son of a billionaire—he is thrust into a dangerous conspiracy involving "Ark Angel," the world's first luxury hotel in outer space. This high-stakes adventure is perfect for children who love fast-paced action, high-tech gadgets, and stories about young heroes saving the world.

As Alex investigates the mysterious eco-terrorist group Force Three, he discovers a plot that could result in millions of deaths. From the streets of London to the launchpads of French Guiana, readers will be on the edge of their seats as Alex races against time. Ideal for readers interested in espionage and science fiction, this book combines realistic spycraft with futuristic technology. It is a great choice for fans of the Cherub series or anyone who enjoys a cinematic reading experience filled with narrow escapes and global intrigue.

Highlights:

• Features the iconic teen superspy Alex Rider in one of his most dangerous missions yet.
• Explores themes of environmentalism and the ethics of extreme wealth.
• Packed with high-tech gadgets and intense, cinematic action sequences.
• A thrilling blend of mystery, espionage, and science fiction elements.

Between Shades of Gray is a powerful and heart-wrenching historical novel that sheds light on a forgotten piece of history. Set in 1941, fifteen-year-old Lina is a talented artist whose life is shattered when the Soviet secret police barge into her home in Lithuania. Alongside her mother and younger brother, she is deported to a grueling labor camp in Siberia. Separated from her father, Lina uses her art to document her experiences and leave a trail of clues, hoping they will eventually lead her family back together.

This moving story is ideal for readers interested in World War II history, survival narratives, and stories of incredible human resilience. Ruta Sepetys crafts a narrative that is both haunting and hopeful, making it a perfect choice for teenagers and adults who appreciate deeply emotional and educational storytelling. It is a must-read for fans of The Book Thief, offering a unique perspective on the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable hardship.

Highlights:

• A gripping and emotionally resonant portrayal of the Baltic deportations during WWII.
• Focuses on the power of art and creativity as a means of survival and communication.
• Explores themes of family loyalty, sacrifice, and the enduring nature of hope.
• Highly acclaimed and award-winning novel that provides important historical context.

In the seventh installment of the epic Bone saga, the stakes have never been higher. Following the devastating eruption of a long-dormant volcano, the world is plunged into an ash-covered nightmare. The Lord of the Locusts has finally been unleashed, and the Bone cousins—Fone, Phoney, and Smiley—must navigate a landscape of soot and shadows alongside Thorn and Gran'ma Ben. Their goal is the city of Atheia, but the journey is fraught with danger as they cross the treacherous 'Ghost Circles,' where the boundary between the living and the spirit world blurs.

This volume is perfect for children who love high-stakes fantasy and immersive world-building. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in graphic novels that balance humor with dark, cinematic storytelling. Fans of Amulet or Wings of Fire will find themselves captivated by the rich lore and the evolving mystery of Thorn’s heritage. As the series approaches its climax, the emotional depth and character growth make it a great choice for middle-grade readers looking for a story that grows with them.

Highlights:

• A thrilling blend of epic fantasy and slapstick humor.
• Stunning artwork that brings the apocalyptic setting to life.
• Deepening character arcs as the Bone cousins face their greatest fears.
• A high-stakes quest that explores themes of destiny and sacrifice.

In the fifth volume of the acclaimed Bone series, Fone and Smiley Bone find themselves separated from their cousins and navigating the treacherous Eastern Border. Their mission is a delicate one: they are attempting to return a lost rat creature cub to the mountains. However, the wilderness is far from safe. They soon encounter the formidable Rock Jaw, an enormous and cynical mountain lion who considers himself the master of the territory. As the Bone cousins try to protect a group of orphaned baby animals, they must use their wits to survive the shifting alliances of the wild.

This installment is perfect for children who love epic quests mixed with slapstick humor and high-stakes tension. Jeff Smith’s masterful storytelling and expressive illustrations make this an ideal choice for readers interested in graphic novels that offer both heart and adventure. It is a great choice for fans of Amulet or Wings of Fire who are looking for a series that balances lighthearted moments with a truly grand narrative scope.

Highlights:

• Features the fan-favorite duo of Fone Bone and the hilarious Smiley Bone.
• Introduces Rock Jaw, one of the most complex and memorable antagonists in the series.
• Explores themes of responsibility and the consequences of war on nature.
• Stunning visual storytelling that captures both humor and intense action.

Book of a Thousand Days is a breathtaking fantasy novel by Newbery Honor author Shannon Hale, based on the classic Grimm fairy tale 'Maid Maleen.' The story follows Dashti, a loyal maid who is locked in a stone tower for seven years alongside her mistress, Lady Saren. Written as a series of diary entries on scraps of parchment, the narrative captures Dashti’s incredible resilience as she faces starvation, isolation, and the unknown dangers lurking outside the tower walls. This book is perfect for children who love immersive world-building and stories of quiet strength.

Ideal for readers interested in fairy tale retellings and strong female protagonists, this novel explores deep themes of class, devotion, and the power of one's voice. As Dashti and Saren eventually escape their prison, they must navigate a landscape ravaged by war and deception. Dashti’s journey from a humble 'mucker' to a hero is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, making it a great choice for fans of character-driven fantasy. Readers who enjoyed Ella Enchanted or The Goose Girl will find themselves enchanted by Dashti’s courage and the lyrical prose.

Highlights:

• A unique epistolary format told through the protagonist's secret diary.
• A powerful exploration of loyalty and friendship between two very different young women.
• Richly detailed setting inspired by Mongolian culture and folklore.
• A compelling blend of survival, romance, and magical realism.

In Brian's Hunt, the final installment of Gary Paulsen's legendary survival series, Brian Robeson returns to the wild where he feels most at home. While camping in the deep woods, Brian discovers a wounded dog, leading him on a tense and emotional journey to find out what happened. His instincts suggest a dangerous predator is on the loose, prompting him to travel north to protect his Cree friends. This gripping tale masterfully explores the deep connection between humans and animals and the raw reality of life in the wilderness.

This book is a perfect choice for children who love high-stakes survival stories and readers interested in the great outdoors. Gary Paulsen’s spare, evocative prose makes it an ideal pick for reluctant readers who enjoy fast-paced action and realistic scenarios. Fans of the original Hatchet will find this a satisfying conclusion to Brian's journey, offering a mature look at his growth as a woodsman and his respect for the natural world.

Highlights:

• A thrilling conclusion to the beloved Hatchet series.
• Explores the powerful and mysterious bond between a boy and his dog.
• Perfect for fans of wilderness survival and realistic adventure fiction.
• Features intense encounters with nature and lessons in tracking and survival.

In Brian's Return, Gary Paulsen brings readers back into the world of Brian Robeson, the resilient protagonist of the award-winning classic Hatchet. After surviving the harsh wilderness and returning to civilization, Brian finds himself struggling to adapt to the "normal" world. High school life, with its social pressures and noise, feels more alien to him than the quiet, dangerous woods ever did. This powerful story explores Brian's realization that he truly belongs in the wild, leading him to make the life-changing decision to return to the northern woods.

This book is perfect for children who love survival stories and readers interested in the deep connection between humans and nature. Gary Paulsen's vivid descriptions of the wilderness and Brian's internal journey make this an ideal choice for fans of outdoor adventure and character-driven narratives. It is a poignant conclusion to Brian's journey of self-discovery, highlighting the importance of finding where one truly belongs.

Highlights:

• A compelling exploration of the psychological impact of survival and the struggle to reintegrate into society.
• Vivid, realistic descriptions of nature and the skills required to live off the land.
• A deeply personal look at a young man's search for identity and purpose.
• The fourth installment in the beloved Hatchet series.

Brian's Winter is a gripping "what-if" sequel to Gary Paulsen's classic survival story, Hatchet. In this riveting adventure, thirteen-year-old Brian Robeson is not rescued at the end of summer. Instead, he must face the brutal, unforgiving Canadian winter with only his wits and his hatchet. This story is perfect for children who love high-stakes survival tales and readers interested in the raw power of nature. Paulsen's breathtaking descriptions of the wilderness make this an immersive experience for any young reader who has ever wondered if they could survive on their own.

This book is an ideal choice for fans of outdoor exploration and realistic fiction. It explores deep themes of resilience and self-reliance as Brian learns to hunt, build shelter, and stay warm against impossible odds. It is a great choice for reluctant readers because of its fast-paced plot and visceral action. Parents looking for books that inspire grit and a connection to the natural world will find this to be a standout addition to their child's library.

Highlights:

• An intense, realistic look at wilderness survival and bushcraft skills.
• A compelling "alternate ending" scenario that expands on a beloved classic.
• Focuses on character growth, problem-solving, and mental toughness.
• Perfect for fans of My Side of the Mountain and Island of the Blue Dolphins.

Catching Fire is the gripping second installment in Suzanne Collins' world-renowned trilogy. After surviving the brutal Hunger Games through an act of defiance, Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark return home to District 12. However, their victory has sparked a flicker of hope across Panem, and the Capitol is determined to extinguish it. This high-stakes sequel is perfect for readers who love intense survival stories, political intrigue, and complex characters facing impossible choices.

As Katniss and Peeta embark on their Victory Tour, they realize the stakes are higher than ever. President Snow is watching their every move, and a special edition of the games—the Quarter Quell—threatens to pull them back into the arena. This book is an ideal choice for teens interested in social justice, rebellion against oppression, and the emotional weight of leadership. It offers a deeper look into the world of Panem, making it a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and action-packed adventures.

Highlights:

• A thrilling expansion of the world of Panem and its political landscape.
• Deep exploration of the consequences of rebellion and the cost of survival.
• Compelling character development for Katniss as she becomes a symbol of hope.
• High-tension pacing that leads to a shocking and unforgettable cliffhanger.

Chapterhouse: Dune is the breathtaking conclusion to Frank Herbert’s legendary Dune Chronicles. In this final installment, the desert planet Arrakis has been destroyed, and the Bene Gesserit sisterhood finds itself on the run from the violent Honored Matres. Under the leadership of Mother Superior Darwi Odrade, they attempt to transform the green world of Chapterhouse into a new desert to ensure the survival of the sandworms and the precious spice melange. This is a perfect choice for older readers who love complex world-building, political intrigue, and philosophical depth.

Ideal for fans of epic space operas, this novel explores the weight of history and the evolution of humanity. It is a great choice for those who have followed the journey from the very beginning and want to see how the fate of the galaxy is ultimately decided. With its intricate plot and deep themes of leadership and legacy, it remains a cornerstone of science fiction literature. Readers interested in high-stakes strategy and ecological transformation will find this book particularly compelling.

Highlights:

• The epic conclusion to one of the most famous science fiction series of all time.
• Deep exploration of the Bene Gesserit's culture, history, and survival tactics.
• Intense political and philosophical conflicts that challenge the characters' beliefs.
• A fascinating look at ecological engineering and the rebirth of a desert ecosystem.

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.

Dawn is the gripping third installment in the Warriors: The New Prophecy series, where the stakes have never been higher for the wild cats of the forest. As the Twolegs (humans) continue to destroy their ancestral home, the young feline heroes return from their quest with a heavy burden: they must convince four fiercely independent and often rival Clans to unite and embark on a perilous journey to a new territory. This epic tale of survival and unity is perfect for children who love high-stakes animal adventures and complex world-building.

Ideal for readers interested in animal fantasy and epic quests, Erin Hunter’s world is rich with lore, tradition, and heart-pounding action. Parents will find this a great choice for encouraging reluctant readers, as the fast-paced plot and relatable character dynamics keep children engaged from start to finish. It explores deep themes of trust and sacrifice, making it a standout pick for fans of series like Wings of Fire or Redwall.

Highlights:

• An epic survival story featuring a unique society of wild cats.
• Focuses on the importance of cooperation and overcoming differences for the greater good.
• Perfect for fans of immersive fantasy worlds and animal-led adventures.
• High-stakes drama that keeps middle-grade readers turning pages.

In "Die Tribute von Panem - Gefährliche Liebe", dem packenden zweiten Teil der weltberühmten Trilogie, kehrt Katniss Everdeen nach ihrem Sieg in den Hunger Games zurück nach Hause. Doch der Frieden ist trügerisch: Ihr Akt des Widerstands hat in den Distrikten eine Welle der Hoffnung ausgelöst, die das Kapitol mit aller Macht unterdrücken will. Katniss und Peeta werden gezwungen, erneut in die Arena zu treten, während die Flammen der Revolution immer höher schlagen. Dieses Buch ist perfekt für Jugendliche, die fesselnde Dystopien und tiefgründige Charaktere lieben.

Suzanne Collins schafft eine meisterhafte Fortsetzung, die ideal für Leser ist, die sich für Themen wie Gerechtigkeit, Mut und moralische Dilemmata interessieren. Die Mischung aus nervenaufreibender Action und emotionaler Tiefe macht diesen Roman zu einer großartigen Wahl für Fans von starken Protagonistinnen und komplexen Gesellschaftskritiken. Wer den ersten Band verschlungen hat, wird von der steigenden Spannung und den politischen Intrigen in Panem begeistert sein.

Highlights:

• Spannungsgeladene Fortsetzung der weltbekannten Dystopie-Saga.
• Tiefgründige Auseinandersetzung mit Rebellion und politischer Macht.
• Starke weibliche Hauptfigur, die zur Symbolfigur des Widerstands wird.
• Fesselnde Mischung aus Survival-Action und emotionaler Zerreißprobe.

In Divine Madness, the fifth installment of the high-octane CHERUB series, teenage special agent James Adams faces his most psychological challenge yet. When a link is discovered between the ecoterrorist group Help Earth and a mysterious religious cult known as The Survivors, James is sent deep into the Australian Outback. His mission is to infiltrate their isolated headquarters and gather intelligence, but the vast distance from civilization is the least of his worries. Surrounded by the cult's intense brainwashing techniques, James must fight to keep his own identity while uncovering a global threat.

This gripping thriller is perfect for children who love fast-paced action, undercover missions, and stories where young people outsmart adults. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in espionage, survival skills, and complex moral dilemmas. Fans of the Alex Rider series or The Maze Runner will find themselves hooked by the realistic stakes and the gritty, no-nonsense world of CHERUB agents. This book offers a compelling look at the power of the mind and the importance of resilience under pressure.

Highlights:

• High-stakes undercover mission in a remote, dangerous setting.
• Explores complex themes of psychological manipulation and mental strength.
• Features a relatable teenage protagonist who relies on training and wit rather than gadgets.
• Part of a bestselling series known for its realistic approach to the spy genre.

Frank Herbert’s Dune is an epic masterpiece that transports readers to the harsh desert world of Arrakis. This legendary science fiction novel follows young Paul Atreides as his noble family takes control of a planet that is the only source of the universe's most valuable substance: the spice melange. It is a perfect choice for older teens who love complex world-building, intricate political intrigue, and stories of destiny.

Ideal for readers interested in environmentalism and philosophy, Dune blends high-stakes adventure with deep questions about power and ecology. As Paul navigates betrayal and the mysterious ways of the desert-dwelling Fremen, he must embrace a destiny far greater than he ever imagined. This book is a great choice for fans of grand-scale space operas and those looking for a challenging, rewarding literary experience.

Highlights:

• An immersive and detailed alien world with a unique ecosystem.
• A gripping story of political maneuvering and family loyalty.
• Explores profound themes of ecology, religion, and human potential.
• Winner of the Hugo and Nebula awards, defining the sci-fi genre.

Embrace the Serpent is a sweeping romantic fantasy that transports readers to the last free kingdom, where magic and danger collide. Saphira is an eighteen-year-old orphan and a gifted jeweler's apprentice who has spent her life staying invisible to avoid the Empire's reach. However, her rare ability to harness magic within gemstones eventually draws the attention of the mysterious Serpent King. Forced into a marriage of convenience to escape a worse fate, Saphira finds herself thrust into a deadly game of court intrigue where every move could be her last.

This enchanting tale is perfect for children and teens who love stories of high-stakes romance and magical world-building. As Saphira navigates her new life, she is caught between her cold, serpentine husband and a cunning, handsome huntsman. Ideal for readers interested in complex female protagonists, unique magic systems, and the 'marriage of convenience' trope, this book offers a lush and atmospheric escape. It is a great choice for fans of The Wrath & the Dawn and Once Upon a Broken Heart.

Highlights:

• A compelling marriage of convenience trope set in a dangerous magical court.
• Unique gemstone-based magic system that adds depth to the fantasy world.
• High-stakes political intrigue and a captivating romantic triangle.
• A strong, resilient female lead who must find her voice and power.