The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart follows four unique children, Reynie, Sticky, Kate, and Constance, each who have their own specific talent that they excel in. After a series of difficult exams, in which giving the correct answer isn’t always necessary to pass, the four are escorted to a mansion owned by the odd, yet kind, Mr. Benedict. He gives them a mission, to infiltrate the Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened and find out exactly what is going on behind the scenes.
Eragon by Christopher Paolini is a book that delves deep into the mystical world of dragons, elves, and tyrants. The story follows Eragon, an orphan living with his uncle, after he finds a mysterious stone that he laters discovers is a dragon egg. After it hatches, the dragon, which Eragon names Sephira, immediately imprints onto Eragon, sending him into a war between the Dragon Riders and the tyrant king, Galbatorix.
The Ranger’s Apprentice: Ruins of Gorlan by John Flanagan follows the journey of an orphan boy named Will when he begins his journey as a Ranger. Will follows his mysterious mentor, Halt, on the assignments that he receives, all varying from assisting a farmer to following an order from the king to investigate the possible revival of a man long thought to be dead. Throughout his journey, Will learns more about what exactly being a Ranger means, and whether he wants to continue along the path of becoming one.
Summary: Dark Age by Pierce Brown is the fifth book in the Red Rising series, continuing the story of Darrow, a lowborn revolutionary fighting against a tyrannical society ruled by a color-coded hierarchy. Set in a future where humanity has colonized the solar system, the story explores into themes of power, betrayal, and the consequences of war.
Wendy Mass’ A Mango Shaped Space is a Young Adult novel that tells Mia Winchell’s story, a young girl with synesthesia—a phenomenon that causes her to see colors and shapes when she hears sounds. Mia struggles with not being able to relate to her peers at school, as her synesthesia affects her relationships and ability to succeed in school.
Adam Silvera’s They Both Die at the End is a Young Adult, LGBT novel that recounts the final hours of main characters Mateo and Rufus’ lives after being informed that they only have 24 hours to live. Confronted by this daunting news, both characters are forced to confront their fears and regrets as they set off together to fulfill their final wishes.
The House of Hades, the 4th book of the Heroes of Olympus, stands out as the most engaging book in the series. Every chapter offers another engaging story of Annabeth and Percy’s journey through Tartarus or the Argo II’s journey to save them. With fun characters like Leo and Frank as well as dramatic characters like Annabeth or Nico, there is not a single forgettable character in the story. Riordan’s way of blending ancient mythology and modern life leads to an incredible read.
Summary: Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare is a tragedy that revolves around the conspiracy to assassinate the Roman dictator Julius Caesar. The play follows the manipulation and betrayal by key figures, including Brutus, Cassius, and Antony, as they grapple with loyalty, ambition, and power. Brutus, torn between his friendship with Caesar and his concern for Rome's welfare, ultimately joins the conspiracy led by Cassius.
Many avid readers of today may know author Tahereh Mafi, creator of the Book Tok-popular series, Shatter Me. While I love Shatter Me as much as the next person, I have another book that I believe to be Mafi’s most eloquent work.
Have you ever read a fairytale, or remembered a favorite fable from your childhood, and wished for more? More characters, more backstories, and more truth. The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani, tells the story of two girls, Sophie and Agatha, who grow up in a dull, dreary village. Sophie’s greatest desire is to become a princess and escape from her father and his new wife’s family. Agatha lives in a graveyard with only her mother and cat for company.
