Tag: Coming of Age

Amazing Audiobooks (#AA2027) Featured Review: The Oks Are Not Ok

  • The Oks Are Not OK
  • Author: Grace K. Shim
  • Narrated by Shannon Tyo
  • Penguin Random House Audio
  • Publication Date: Mar 03, 2026
  • ISBN:9798217280834

When the Ok family’s financial circumstances abruptly change, they’re forced to trade their glamorous LA life for a wi-fi free, small farming town where no one knows they’re the family behind the now bankrupt and disgraced It’s Ok! fashion empire. As 16-year-old Elena adjusts to her new life, she begins to rethink the merit of her past as a party girl and influencer. Soon, she begins to reconsider what success truly means to her and what it looks like to show up as a good sister and friend. 

Weaving humor with heart, The Oks Are Not OK is a feel-good story about reinvention and family. Tyo’s narration is expressive and bright and her characters are distinct and well-crafted. Elena’s charisma and charm are especially clear in the narration. Elena’s shift from self-involved influencer to community advocate is gentle and Tyo’s narration makes it feel authentic. As Elena starts to build friendships and reconnect with her brother and parents, Tyo’s warm yet lively narration really shines. This audiobook will appeal to readers who enjoy a light-hearted character-driven story and an engaging yet relaxed listening experience.

For fans of Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean, You Have A Match by Emma Lord, and the TV comedy, Schitt’s Creek.

– Tina Chesterman

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.

Follow YALSA’s The Hub on YouTube for exclusive author interviews!

Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers (#QP2027) Feature Review: The Moon Without Stars by Chanel Miller

As she enters 7th grade, Luna is quiet but confident in who she is – a lover of books and drawing – and she knows that her best friend Scott will be by her side no matter what. But new-found popularity for Luna after she and Scott produce a series of “self-help” zines for classmates shifts her perspective on middle school, her life, and her friendships. As she navigates her new social status, Luna is forced to confront what she’d be willing to compromise, who she’s willing to give up, and how those things affect who she ultimately wants to be.

With an inviting cover that doesn’t age down the middle-school aged characters, this is an ideal bridge book for younger teens as they transition from middle grade to young adult books. Luna’s journey is ultimately a classic tale of the importance of friends and offers opportunities for readers to think about how even those who are different from us might also have their own insecurities. Luna’s straightforward and frank analysis of her own coming of age and her experiences with a diverse array of classmates provide a fresh and relatable perspective on middle school for contemporary young teens. Luna’s observations on getting older also feature a wry sense of humor that could appeal to slightly older teens who are ready to feel nostalgic about the tumultuous years of middle school. 

Younger teens who enjoy realistic, relatable fiction that provide a humorous look at growing up would enjoy this title. It is also, a great alternative and “next level” book for middle school students who are ready to read beyond The Diary of a Wimpy Kid or Dork Diaries. Recent comparable titles include Jess Callan’s Ollie in Between and Naomi Milliner’s The Trouble with Secrets. Fans of classic Judy Blume like Are You There God, It’s Me Margaret and Then Again, Maybe I Won’t will also enjoy this.

–Maryanne Olson

Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers (#QP2027) Feature Review: Leave it on the Track by Margot Fisher

Morgan “Moose” Shaker has lost everything after barely surviving a catastrophic fire in a skating rink. Her dads, her beloved hometown of Moab, and her life as she knew it are all gone as she struggles to start over in Portland, Oregon with her estranged half sister as her guardian. But Moose soon finds a new community in a junior roller derby league where she is able to focus on something other than her loss and anxiety.

Part realistic fiction about processing grief and part LGBTQ sports romance, this novel hits all the highs and lows of teen life.  Moose is an imperfect and relatable character; teens will connect with her emotional depth as she struggles with anxiety, anger, the pressure to perform in sports, as well as the dazzling sparks of new love and friendship. With short chapters, the story moves at a quick pace and is filled with other nuanced characters who support and challenge Moose. Teens will be immersed in the lushly described settings of Moab and Portland as Moose considers the dramatic differences of her life before and after the fire.

Readers who love books about women’s sports, LGBTQ romance, and realistic fiction about grief and mental health will find much to keep the pages turning. Similar titles include All the Blues in the Sky by Renee Watson, Bruised by Tanya Boteju, and A Heart in a Body in the World by Deb Caletti.

––Lily Mayfield

Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers (#QP2026) Feature Review: Almost Sunset Wahab Algarmi

Hassan is juggling school, soccer, gaming, and the long daily fasts of Ramadan, a month his classmates barely understand. As he moves through busy days and spiritual nights, he finds support in his family and community, from pre-dawn meals to evening gatherings at the mosque. But keeping up with homework, friendships, and his faith proves challenging, and Hassan often wonders if he can balance it all. Throughout the holy month, he works to find his groove and discover what Ramadan truly means to him.

This graphic novel offers a thoughtful portrayal of a teenager navigating the balance between family expectations during Ramadan and the everyday demands of school, sports, and peer relationships. The bright, expressive illustrations and succinct text, often complemented by wordless panels, create a compelling and visually engaging story perfect for reluctant readers.This title will appeal to readers who enjoy realistic stories about navigating school, family, and cultural traditions. Teens who are curious about or connected to Muslim experiences will especially appreciate Hassan’s honest and relatable journey through Ramadan.

Readers who enjoy this book might also like Yusuf Azeem Is Not a Hero by Saadia Faruqi and Once Upon an Eid edited by S. K. Ali and Aisha Saeed. Fans of sports-centered stories with heart may also appreciate Power Forward by Hena Khan.

–Katie B.

Quick Picks for Reluctant Readers (#QP2026) Feature Review: Dan in Green Gables by Rey Terciero illustrated by Claudia Aguirre

  • Dan in Green Gables
  • by Rey Terciero
  • illustrated by Claudia Aguirre
  • Penguin Workshop
  • Publication Date: June 3, 2025
  • ISBN: 9780593385579

Fifteen-year-old Dan Stewart-Alvarez is abandoned in rural Tennessee with his grandparents by his free-spirited mother. His grandparents are strangers, and to make matters worse, his abrasive grandfather does not seem to approve of anything Dan does – or is. Dan’s queerness in a small Southern Baptist town causes problems for others in his orbit, but Dan is always unabashedly himself, and he slowly finds a way to build a safe, supportive community at Green Gables.

Labelled as a “modern reimagining” of Anne of Green Gables, this graphic novel highlights the familiar teen theme of feeling out of place and unwelcome in a new environment. Dan and Anne have similar upbeat attitudes and outlooks on life. Familiarity with the classic novel is not required in any way, however, as Dan is a fully formed character with his own motivations and struggles. The artwork is clear and expressive in this graphic novel, providing an accessible path to universal themes. The inviting cover, colorful layout, and expressive art will welcome reluctant readers.

Graphic novels with similar tones and themes include Heartstopper by Alice Oseman, We Could Be Magic by Marissa Meyer, Fitting Indian by Jyoti Chand, I Shall Never Fall in Love by Hari Conner, and The Deep Dark by Molly Ostertag. 

–Emily Williams

Check out our interview with Rex Ogle on Graphic novel reimagings!

Check out our post, I’m stealing the idea, but I wanna make it my own! here.

Check out our post, “If you’re going to run away, run away to a library.”: Interview with Rex Ogle here.

Best Fiction for Young Adults (#BFYA2026) Featured Review: Salvación by Sandra Proudman

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Lola de la Peña and her family relocate to Alta California to fulfill Mamá’s spiritual calling to heal the sick and injured with sal negra, a magical substance that cures any injury or malady.  By day, Lola is forced to play her part as the proper young Mexican girl that society expects her to be, but by night she dons the mask of Salvación, the masked vigilante hero protecting the people of Coloma. One night, however, a stranger arrives in town sharing a disturbing story of her own town’s destruction by sal roja and its wielder: Damien Hernández, who happens to arrive in Coloma the next day with promises to return Alta California to México. Determined to protect her town and all that she holds dear, Lola–under the guise of Salvación–races against the clock to determine what is truth and protect her people at all costs.

Full of action, lots of heart, and dangerous magic, Salvación retells the well-known folk tale of El Zorro and flips it on its head with a female protagonist and important themes.

Teens that enjoy strong female leads, folk-tale retellings, and historical fiction, with a side of romance will enjoy Salvación. Readers who have enjoyed Elizabeth Lim’s Six Crimson Cranes series and Marissa Meyer’s Cinder series for their folk and fairy tale retellings, or Erika Sánchez’s I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter for its story of a young Mexican girl finding herself despite the expectations of society.

– Amy Kilkenny

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 Best Fiction for Young Adults Committee appreciates teen feedback as members evaluate the nominated titles. Teen librarians are encouraged to share the List of Potential Nominees under consideration with their patrons and solicit feedback using the link: tinyurl.com/bfya2026

Best Fiction for Young Adults (#BFYA2026) Featured Review: Best of All Worlds by Kenneth Oppel

13-year-old Xavier “Zay” goes with his dad and pregnant step-mom to their lake cottage for a typical family holiday, until they wake up the next morning in a replica of the cottage on a goat farm with not a soul around them. They do not know exactly how they got there, but that there is some sort of dome around them, and sometimes are gifted supplies or animals by their unseen captures. Three years later a new family appears, and now 16-year-old Zay is excited at the prospects of being around a girl his age, however the family is led by a conspiracy theorist who will do anything to get his family free, even if that means harm to Zay and his family.

The novel immediately puts the reader on edge with a thick atmosphere of suspense and danger. Zay is a relatable character for teen readers as he navigates forced farm life during his teen years. The social commentary that comes with the new family appearing might seem a little a little heavy handed at times, but adds to the story and makes it one that leaves the reader thinking about it long after finishing it in one setting.

Fans of this read will enjoy Dry by Neal Shusterman and This Moth Saw Brightness by A. A. Vacharat as well.

-Molly Dettmann

Want read more? Check out our Quick Picks Review of Best of All Worlds here!

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 Best Fiction for Young Adults Committee appreciates teen feedback as members evaluate the nominated titles. Teen librarians are encouraged to share the List of Potential Nominees under consideration with their patrons and solicit feedback using the link: tinyurl.com/bfya2026

Best Fiction for Young Adults (#BFYA2026) Featured Review: Lucy, Uncensored by Mel Hammond and Teghan Hammond

  • Lucy, Uncensored
  • by Mel Hammond and Teghan Hammond
  • Publisher: Penguin Knopf
  • Release date: October 8th, 2024
  • ISBN: 9780593814055

Best friends Lucy and Callie dream of leaving their small town and enrolling in a college drama program. But when they encounter bigotry on their campus visit, they decide to set off on a road trip to explore other options. To Lucy’s surprise, she gravitates toward a women’s college far from home. As far as she can tell, the school seems open and accepting, but they’ve never accepted a trans woman before. Will she be the first?

Throughout the book the main characters were age-appropriately chaotic: they forget to submit important assignments, lose their belongings, and disappoint themselves and each other. They’re trying so hard, but they can’t quite keep it all together. This felt authentic to the teen experience. Their dialogue felt authentic as well. Lucy and Callie don’t always know what to say, and neither do their parents or teachers, but they’re ultimately trying to be supportive and honest. This heartfelt messiness was refreshing.

Readers will appreciate the representation of the trans experience. At only about 250 pages, Lucy, Uncensored is packed with (theater) drama, but Lucy’s happiness takes center stage. Lucy encounters transphobic jerks, navigates her relationship with her dad, and experiences exhaustion in her journey as an advocate—but she also experiences joy and self-fulfillment.

A teen reader interested in drama would enjoy this, but it would also appeal to many teen readers who are discovering their paths, navigating the college admissions process, or just want a short, funny, yet heartfelt coming-of-age story. Readers might also enjoy A Whole Song and Dance by Sarvenaz Tash or Dumplin’ by Julie Murphy.

– Carolyn Vidmar

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 Best Fiction for Young Adults Committee appreciates teen feedback as members evaluate the nominated titles. Teen librarians are encouraged to share the List of Potential Nominees under consideration with their patrons and solicit feedback using the link: tinyurl.com/bfya2026

Best Fiction for Young Adults (#BFYA2026) Featured Review: They Bloom at Night by Trang Than Tran

In the coastal Louisiana town of Mercy, few residents remain after a hurricane floods the region, leaving an especially widespread toxic algae bloom to take over the local landscape. Among the remaining locals, an alarming number have gone missing. Vietnamese-American teen Noon and her mother are forced to strike a deal with an unsavory gator park operator that will send Noon and the operator’s daughter, Covey on a mission to trap or kill a monster that locals believe is responsible for their missing loved ones. The mission will not only be dangerous, it will force Noon to reengage with a past trauma as she also contends with disturbing physical changes in her own body and growing feelings for Covey.

This atmospheric climate-themed horror novel is a coming-of-age story at heart. Though the mystery of what lurks beneath the algae infested waters is what propels the narrative along, the real substance of the story is Noon’s development as she processes trauma and grief while coming to understand her identity. The horror elements are visceral and the setting feels vivid. The poetic writing style and moderate pacing give this novel a dreamy, literary quality that distinguishes it from many other queer horror stories.

Fans of queer and trans horror stories, particularly those that also serve as ruminations on identity will find much to love in Tran’s latest. Fans of Tran’s debut novel, She is a Haunting, will feel right at home with the intersection of horror and generational trauma present in her newest outing. Readers who enjoyed the grisly body horror and rural setting of Andrew Joseph White’s Hell Followed With Us will be similarly drawn to They Bloom at Night. For another novel with body horror elements, sapphic characters, and a poetic writing style, readers may also enjoy House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland.

– Courtney Waters

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 Best Fiction for Young Adults Committee appreciates teen feedback as members evaluate the nominated titles. Teen librarians are encouraged to share the List of Potential Nominees under consideration with their patrons and solicit feedback using the link: tinyurl.com/bfya2026

Best Fiction for Young Adults (#BFYA2026) Featured Review: This is the Year by Gloria Munoz

  • This is the Year
  • by Gloria Munoz
  • Publisher: Holiday House
  • Release date: January 7th, 2025
  • ISBN: 9780823458363

In a not-so-distant future, Juli loses her twin sister to a hit-and-run accident caused by a self-driving car in south Florida. Now, starting her senior year of high school she is trying to figure out how to exist without her sister. In addition, a new privately funded space program, Cometa, is seeking applicants of “new Americans” to be on the first-ever team to colonize the moon.

While the elite competition to find the best-of-the-best has been done before, this cli-fi book discusses realistic alterations of the setting like the dissolving (extinction) of animals, unpredictable weather patterns, and significant class differences. This idea of only seeking applicants who are “new Americans” for this voyage presents two ideas; one of being disposable people in a high-risk journey and two, creating a unique purpose for those individuals who are naturalized citizens.

The writing is interspersed with Spanish that is not defined within the text, but can be inferred by the reader, in most cases. Readers who are interested in science fiction and dystopian novels will enjoy this potential future outlook of earth. Readers who enjoyed Dare Mighty Things by Heather Kaczynski and Heart of Iron by Ashley Poston should pick this up next.

–  Jessica Lorentz Smith

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 Best Fiction for Young Adults Committee appreciates teen feedback as members evaluate the nominated titles. Teen librarians are encouraged to share the List of Potential Nominees under consideration with their patrons and solicit feedback using the link: tinyurl.com/bfya2026