YA Shelf Talk

    The Princess and the Grilled Cheese Sandwich by Deya Muniz is a fantasy fiction, young adult graphic novel that is 239 pages plus some great background stories of where the story originated from by the author in the back. I chose to read this story after I did a deeper search into YAL that was more lighthearted and comical but staying true to critical underlying themes for adolescents who might be mature enough and interested in the same genre(s). I also found more interest in the book once I realized it had some fairytale elements to it since the run-of-the-mill fairytales often include the same old worn out story of a damsel in distress being swept off her feet by a burly man--often one of royal descent. It was fun to read the modern twists to these outdated storylines.  Recognition Young Adult Favorites Award, 2024 Librarian Favorites Award, 2024 Best Book of 2023, New York and Chicago Public Libraries YALSA Great Graphic Novel for Teens, 2024 ALA Rainbow List Pick...

      I loved this book! Akim Aliu: Dreamer  was a quick read with strong messages of resiliency and identity. Akim Aliu is a Ukranian-Nigerian-Canadian professional hockey player who shares his life's journey in this graphic memoir. He candidly recounts many experiences and with racism, both overt and covert, and overcoming adversity throughout his upbringing and experiences leading him to the NHL and ultimately speaking out against many prominent figures who terrorized him throughout his life and career.  Publication: 2023 Pages: 128 Genre: Graphic Novel Memoir Awards & Recognition Great Graphic Novels for Teens, 2024 Children's Favorites Award, 2024 In the Margins Book Awards, nonfiction, 2024 Texas Maverick Graphic Novel Reading Lists, 2024, grades 6-12 MISelf in Books (Michigan), 2023, middle school Eureka Book Award Honors (California), 2023 CDE (California ) Recommended List, 2023, grades 6-8 Classroom Considerations As with any YAL featured in YA She...

  Felix Ever After by Kasen Callender I chose to read Felix Ever After because it is honestly the first time I would read about a transgender protagonist. I thought the story would offer valuable insights into the transgender/queer/LGBTQ experience--and through the lens of a BIPOC. Callender did a great job with Felix's character and story. Summary Felix Love--yes, his last name is love--is a Black, queer, and transgender teenager in his senior year of high school. He is also a talented visual artist who is trying to beef up his portfolio to get into Brown University. He participates in a summer art program where he grapples with his identity, the idea of falling in love, and self-acceptance. The story's centerpiece is a love triangle Felix has as he navigates his own identity challenges with parents and social media bullying and prospects for his future after high school. The relationship Felix has with his father is an interesting piece of the story because his dad is so lovi...