Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers (#QP2022) Featured Review of Stranded by Jocelyn Shipley

Stranded Cover Art

Stranded by Jocelyn Shipley
Orca Publishing
Publication Date: September 22, 2020
ISBN: 978-1459823891

Kipp, a troubled teen trying to do right despite obstacles, finds himself working for a wealthy woman with a secret; she’s had troubled teens work for her before, but they have gone missing. Could Kipp be next?

A tried and true thriller with short chapters and a page-turning plot, this read is sure to grab any teens’ attention and not let go until its conclusion. Kipp is a relatable character, trying to do what is right by himself after a tragic accident that is quickly revealed to hook readers from the beginning, but there are plenty of other mysteries in the story to keep them turning the page. There is a touch of diversity in the secondary characters that works to showcase a setting any reader could see themselves in. The ending will definitely lead to some discussion.

Fans of teen dramas like Riverdale, Nancy Drew, and All American will gravitate towards Stranded, as it could be a story arc on one of those shows easily. 

–Molly Dettmann (Norman, OK)

Other Nominated Titles

  • Across the Tracks: Remembering Greenwood, Black Wall Street, and the Tulsa Race Massacre by Alverne Ball; Art by Stacey Robinson (May 5, 2021)

The Selected Lists teams read throughout the year in search of the best titles published in their respective categories. Once a book is suggested (either internally or through the Title suggestion form), it must pass through a review process to be designated an official nomination. 

Each week, the teams feature a review of one of the officially nominated titles. Additional titles to receive this designation are listed as well. At year’s end, the team will curate a final list from all nominated titles and select a Top Ten. The previous years’ lists are available on The Hub.

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Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers Blogging Team @ YALSA's The Hub.