Dry by Neal Shusterman occurs in the near future when California has run low on water due to extreme drought. This book is an absolute masterpiece when it comes to depicting human behavior when no water is available. In this book, the main character, Alyssa, is forced to make many decisions and makes many acquaintances to increase their odds at survival better.
The Shadow of What Was Lost by James Islington follows the journey of Davian, a young man who discovers he possesses powerful abilities in a world where magic is feared and controlled. As he grapples with his newfound powers and the secrets of his past, Davian becomes entangled in a web of politics and ancient prophecies. Alongside his friends Wirr and Asha, Davian embarks on a quest to uncover the truth about his heritage and the threat of dark forces that threaten to plunge the world into chaos.
Crank by Ellen Hopkins is a compelling novel that dives into the harrowing world of addiction through the eyes of Kristina Snow, a high school girl who becomes entangled in the dangerous allure of meth, also known as "crank." As Kristina's experimentation with drugs intensifies, she transforms into her alter ego, "Bree," leading her down a path of self-destruction, fractured relationships, and profound loss.
When Paedyn saves a prince she gets thrown into the purging. In the purging everyone battles with their powers, however Paedyn doesn’t have any powers. Your girl Paedyn here is so observant. Like she has no powers but can trick everyone into she has them.
Personally, I’ve never read The Hunger Games and this book truly amazed me. This is the exact energy and passion you want for your main leads. Paedyn knows her priorities and gets them straight. While Kai on the other hand is just falling head over heels in love with her.
Midnight in Chernobyl is a historical non fiction written by Adam Higginbotham. As the title suggests, this book details the entire Chernobyl nuclear meltdown in what was at the time, the Soviet Union, but now present day Ukraine. Higginbotham begins by explaining the precursor to this tragic event. This includes how the Soviet Union cut costs in their construction of nuclear plants in order to bring them online at a rapid pace. This included operators not being properly trained.
The Forerunner is an autobiography by Cori Bush who currently serves as the representative in the house for Missouri’s first congressional district. The book details her life before politics and how her experiences throughout her life have shaped her to be the person she is today. The book is really raw and honest and contains some heavy topics that Cori has experienced throughout her life, especially in her childhood.
Oathbringer is the third book in The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson. Coming off of the wildly successful first two books, the story grows more compelling and exciting. Sanderson finally weaves Danilar’s, Shallan’s, and Kaladin’s storylines together. Now that many characters have met and much of the book takes place in the newly discovered Urithuru, the true meat of the series is finally revealed.
Words of Radiance is the second book in The Stormlight Archive series by Brandon Sanderson. Please read the first book, The Way of Kings, before this review. After the momentous events of the last book, the war against the Parshendi has taken a turn. Danilar must face assassins while trying to navigate politics and allies on the Shattered Plains. Kaladin has taken on a new role as bodyguard, and must find a way to balance his new responsibilities with his burgeoning powers.
The Way of Kings is Brandon Sanderon’s first novel in a sweeping fantasy series entitled The Stormlight Archive. Set in a mythical world called Roshar, the book centers on a few characters; the dead king’s brother Danilar, who is attempting to avenge his brother’s memory. Kaladin, a slave who has survived many hardships and is cursed to endure them. Shallan, a young girl set on saving her family through whatever means necessary.
Every Falling Star is a historical autobiography by Sungju Lee. In his autobiography, Sungju details his life in North Korea and his harrowing escape from the country. His story starts out in Pyongyang back when he was a child. His family includes his dad who is a military officer, his mom, his dog Bo Cho as well as his grandfather, who is a doctor and grandmother who is a former teacher.
