Summer is on the horizon and school’s almost out–it’s the perfect time to get your TBR list ready. With plenty of books to choose from, here’s a sampling of some of the new books hitting the shelves in the Teen Center this summer.
- “Together We See” by Ari Tison (June 16) – The latest from award-winning author Ari Tison is a propulsive murder mystery set in Costa Rica. Following her parents’ divorce, Ulá heads to Wisconsin with her mother to finish high school while her brother Kabék remains in Costa Rica with their father. When their dad suddenly dies, Ulá returns, and the siblings unite to investigate the mysterious circumstances behind his death. Told from multiple perspectives, this novel will have readers on the edge of their seats as family secrets and truths are revealed.
- “For the Greatest Good” by Blair Hanson (June 30) – Concerned about his town’s unsafe drinking water, high schooler Gavin is determined to do something about it–even if it means coming back into contact with his estranged father, who works for CrispFlow, a massive public utilities conglomerate. With morally grey characters, this reflective, character-driven novel explores the complicated realities of family and trying to make change.
- “My Tokyo Summer” by Abby Denson and Utomaru (July 7) – After exchanging many letters, long-distance pen pals Abby (who lives in America) and Yuuko (who lives in Japan) finally get to meet when Abby enrolls in a summer college program in Japan. Together, the two have a life-changing summer exploring the Tokyo art scene and collaborating together on their own comic. Featuring bright, vibrant illustrations and a heartwarming friendship story, this graphic novel inspired by the creators’ own adventures is perfect for the summer.
- “To Dance the Moon and Stars” by Tasia M S and Barbara Perez Marquez (July 14) – This sweeping graphic novel romantasy is perfect for fans of fairy tales and mythology. Teenager Myra is a high priestess-in-training caught between her obligations to her family’s legacy and her passion, dancing, which is forbidden in her kingdom. When an ancient evil threatens to upend everything, Myra must make a decision. Lush, detailed illustrations beautifully bring the story to life.
- “Hollow Magic” by Mars Lauderbaugh (August 11) – Rosefinch, a witch, sets off on a journey in search of a way to control her volatile magic. When she arrives in the town of Harp, a refuge for fey and other magical folk, she encounters a curse inflicting several inhabitants. Teaming up with a knight and the prince of Harp, the trio journeys to the dangerous Feywild to get some answers. Mars Lauderbaugh, cover artist of several books including “Cemetery Boys,” makes their graphic novel debut in this rich fantasy about found family.
For additional recommendations, fill out a BookMatch request or stop into the library. If you’re looking for summer books assigned and suggested by Princeton Public Schools, check out the School Reading List collection on the third floor. And, with all the reading this summer, be sure to sign up for our annual summer reading program to receive prizes for doing so!
Photo by Raphaël Biscaldi on Unsplash.