*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*

Ultraviolet is going to be a strong, impactful book for many young readers, especially young male readers. 

The story tackles many difficult situations and conversations that come up in young people’s lives, including puberty, mental health, emotions, and relationships - platonic and romantic. 

Salazar created an authentic character with natural human responses to the situations he was experiencing. 

Elio is forced to explore and challenge masculinity, practice consent, and learn to navigate heartbreak. 

Though the beginning half of this book was a bit slow for me, I think the format, content, and relatability will make this a solid pick for junior-high-aged readers. 

Bianca Torre Is Afraid of Everything is so much more than a murder mystery. Justine Pucella Winans has crafted a unique storyline with funny, important, and meaningful themes and discussions. 

Bianca works through their fears and questions and challenges who they want to be. Oh, and while doing this, the author throws in a slightly absurd, birdie murder mystery that Bianca witnesses and  is now determined to uncover. 

In this prequel to PET, readers are transported into a world of art, activism, and self-discovery. 

Bitter has finally found a home in the boarding school, Eucalyptus, where gifted art students thrive. 

Bitter begins to engage with the activist groups who are fighting against the rash injustice outside the walls of Eucalyptus. 

This is a timely book with brilliantly crafted characters. 

I do think I would have understood PET better if I had read Bitter first. 

This was a fine book, but I found it to be a bit boring and slow-paced. 

- Realistic sibling relationship
- Authentic anxiety/panic disorder representation
- Beautiful verse storytelling

When her sister becomes unexpectedly bonded to an enemy dragon and the only solution proposed is to kill her, Faron must make difficult choices that will shape not only her and her sister's lives, but the fate of the world, too.  

What a brilliantly done graphic memoir.

As many readers have said, this graphic novel is equal parts informative and entertaining. I appreciated the interconnection between past and present Lewis as the story unfolds. 

Lewis Hancox created a beautiful canvas that shared the real, the raw, the embarrassing, and the affirming aspects of understanding and embracing his identity. A book that will hopefully resonate with many young readers. 

A brilliant historical fantasy graphic novel that challenges racism and celebrates intersectional queer characters with a dash of unique and fun magic. 

The main characters are strong, talented, determined, and passionate. Their dynamics are something to be envious of as they look out for one another and fight for what is right. 

This book is both fun and important. Jasmine Walls has created a story that many readers will enjoy.