A fantastic graphic memoir, chronicling Krosoczka's growth as an artist through his childhood.

Thanks to Penguin for a copy of this book to read and review! It wasn't necessarily something I'd pick up on my own, but I'm really glad I read it. Overall, I thought Jesselyn's voice really shined through the novel. Her story also gives readers a unique look into the boxing culture. She makes a lot of great points about the gender barriers in the sport, and her story is super inspirational. I can't wait to see what she'll do next!

Simon was one of my favorites from the original series, so I was happy to read these stories about him. And there was so much emotion in this book! Magnus and Alec and then that ending. Man! All the feels.

Kendi really breaks down racist structures in this book, in a way that's easy to access and understand. There were so many moments that I saved, and it's important to understand ways to break down racist thinking paths--to become truly antiracist.

Original review posted at between-the-shelves.com!

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for sending me an ARC of this to review! This isn't something that's necessarily in my wheelhouse, but it sounded interesting enough. It's essentially a coming of age story, set in the backdrop of 1950s Italy. Since I don't know many historical fiction novels set in Italy, I thought I'd give it a whirl!

Those looking for a plot driven story definitely won't find it in this book. Belladonna is definitely a character and setting driven story. And the characters aren't always likable. However, there is a lot of substance there, and Salam draws you in slowly to this world she's created. The theme of obsession is reflected in the style the book is written in.

However, the book does move a bit too slowly for me at times. I wish I could have gotten a bit more about what was happening outside of the school, to give a little more historical context. Despite that, Salam has a knack for description, easily pulling you into this school in Northern Italy.

If you're looking for a book with strong characters, theme, and setting, this is definitely the book for you! Historical fiction fans won't be disappointed.

This might be my favorite Civil War story yet, though I am a bit biased because it is Spider-Man. We get to see how Peter Parker struggles with this conflict, and how his unmasking affects the rest of his life. And what an ending! I wasn't really expecting where this was going to go, but the ending of this volume really packs a punch.

A series of essays about George M. Johnson's experience growing up as Black and gay. In the introduction, he states that this is for the teens that don't get to see themselves in books, that don't get to have the important conversations that are much needed. It's important to read these experiences that might not align with your own. Plus, the audiobook is read by the author and it's fantastic!

Alana and Marko are so fantastic together. They would do anything for Hazel, protecting her with their lives. We also get to meet Petrichor in this one who might be one of my favorite characters.

I had so much hope for this book, but I just could not get into it. There was something about the world building that was difficult to follow, which make it difficult for me to follow what was going on. There were so many cultures and religions and it just felt like too much for me. But I finished it!