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Sixteen-year-old Kaye is a modern nomad. Fierce and independent, she drifts from place to place with her mother’s rock band until an ominous attack forces them back to Kaye’s childhood home. But Kaye’s life takes another turn when she stumbles upon an injured faerie knight in the woods.

For more than a hundred years, no maiden from Aerie has competed in the arduous Testing, but after Eva’s twin brother dies, she is determined to fulfill his dream of participating in the all-male competition.

If you try to assassinate the Grim Reaper… Don’t miss.

Sixteen-year-old Kaye is a modern nomad. Fierce and independent, she drifts from place to place with her mother’s rock band until an ominous attack forces them back to Kaye’s childhood home. But Kaye’s life takes another turn when she stumbles upon an injured faerie knight in the woods.
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Featured Book
AUTHOR HEATHER TERRELL
RELIC
Discover a new dark age—and the one girl wielding the light of truth—in a tale “with threads from The Hunger Games, The Giver, and other dystopian novels” (Booklist).
For more than a hundred years, no maiden from Aerie has competed in the arduous Testing, but after Eva’s twin brother dies, she is determined to fulfill his dream of participating in the all-male competition, and enters despite her parents’ wishes.
With the help of Lukas, her family’s servant from the Boundary lands, Eva learns the ways of the outcasts who live in the brutal and icy world beyond Aerie. She discovers the secrets of the blinding white landscape, the dogs who pull her sled, and the chasms that house the strange relics once worshipped by a godless humanity. This knowledge is exactly what she needs to survive—and win—the harsh trials of the Testing.
Leaving the safety of Aerie behind gives Eva a chance to realize how strong she can be in the face of adversity—and how brave she’ll have to become in a society built on the shifting snows of lies . . .
“Heather Terrell excavates a richly realized and adventurous world from the iced-over wreck of our own.” —William Alexander, National Book Award–winning author of Goblin Secrets
“Part post-apocalyptic fiction and part high fantasy . . . Delicately weaving in elements of Inuit culture as well as elements you might find in Game of Thrones, Heather Terrell creates a world that is as intricate as it is icy . . . A page-turner.” —E. Kristen Anderson, editor of Dear Teen Me
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Relic by Heather Terrell offers a dystopian adventure that stands out for its clean content and thought-provoking themes. The story follows Eva, a young woman who challenges societal norms by participating in a perilous quest traditionally reserved for men. The novel contains minimal violence, no explicit sexual content, and no strong language, making it a suitable choice for families seeking a young adult novel that encourages critical thinking without exposing readers to mature content. The romance is subtle and non-graphic, serving more as a subplot that complements Eva's journey of self-discovery. However, Relic might not appeal to readers looking for fast-paced action or complex romantic dynamics. The narrative focuses more on Eva's internal growth and the societal structures she navigates, which may feel slow to those accustomed to high-stakes thrillers. Additionally, while the book's themes are intellectually stimulating, some readers might find the world-building and plot development less engaging compared to other dystopian novels. Nonetheless, for readers interested in a clean, thoughtful exploration of societal norms and personal courage, Relic provides a meaningful and age-appropriate experience.
AUTHOR BRANDON SANDERSON
SKYWARD (BOOK 1)
A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!
From Brandon Sanderson, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Reckoners series, Words of Radiance, and the internationally bestselling Mistborn series, comes the first book in an epic new series about a girl who dreams of becoming a pilot in a dangerous world at war for humanity's future.
Spensa's world has been under attack for decades. Now pilots are the heroes of what's left of the human race, and becoming one has always been Spensa's dream. Since she was a little girl, she has imagined soaring skyward and proving her bravery. But her fate is intertwined with her father's--a pilot himself who was killed years ago when he abruptly deserted his team, leaving Spensa's chances of attending flight school at slim to none.
No one will let Spensa forget what her father did, yet fate works in mysterious ways. Flight school might be a long shot, but she is determined to fly. And an accidental discovery in a long-forgotten cavern might just provide her with a way to claim the stars.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Brandon Sanderson's Skyward and its series offers an exciting blend of sci-fi, adventure, and self-discovery, making it an engaging read for fans of space exploration and coming-of-age stories. The protagonist, Spensa, is a determined young woman who dreams of becoming a pilot in a world under constant threat from mysterious alien forces. Sanderson’s world-building is rich and immersive, with a strong focus on teamwork, loyalty, and perseverance. The book explores themes like overcoming self-doubt and fighting for one's dreams, making it an inspirational choice for readers looking for a tale of personal growth amidst a high-stakes adventure. The content in Skyward is generally appropriate for readers who enjoy action and intense situations but may be too much for those sensitive to violence or darker themes. While there is no explicit sexual content, there are moments of mild romance and some mild innuendo, but these do not take center stage in the story. The main focus is on Spensa's growth and her challenges as she strives to prove herself as a capable pilot. There is some swearing, though it's not frequent or excessively graphic. The novel contains some intense battle scenes and threats of danger that could be unsettling for younger or more sensitive readers. Overall, Skyward is a solid choice for those who enjoy action-packed sci-fi with a focus on character development, though it may not be the best fit for readers who are uncomfortable with intense combat or mild romantic themes.
AUTHOR BRANDON SANDERSON
STEELHEART (BOOK 1)
How far would you go for revenge if someone killed your father?
If someone destroyed your city?
If everything you ever loved was taken from you?
David Charleston will go to any lengths to stop Steelheart. But to exact revenge in Steelheart’s world, David will need the Reckoners—a shadowy group of rebels bent on maintaining justice.
And it turns out that the Reckoners might just need David too.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Steelheart by Brandon Sanderson could be a good choice for readers who enjoy action-packed, fast-paced plots with moral complexity. The book is set in a world where people with superhuman powers, known as Epics, have turned into tyrants, and the protagonist, David, seeks revenge against the ruthless leader, Steelheart. The story has a thrilling, adventurous tone with a strong focus on justice, loyalty, and self-discovery. The violence in the book, while intense, is more about battles and the consequences of living in a dystopian society rather than graphic gore. The action scenes may appeal to readers who enjoy superhero-like powers and high stakes, though some younger readers might find certain moments unsettling or too intense. On the other hand, Steelheart does contain some mild swearing, and the violence can be harsh, especially as the characters fight for survival in a dangerous world ruled by power-hungry Epics. While there is no explicit sexual content, there is some subtle romantic tension between characters, but it remains very much in the background, making it less of a focus than the action and plot. Some parents may find the level of violence or the moral dilemmas presented in the book a bit mature for younger readers, especially when considering themes of vengeance, power, and trust. However, for readers who appreciate fast-paced action and dystopian worlds, Steelheart can be an exciting and thought-provoking choice.
AUTHOR SAMANTHA SHANNON
THE BONE SEASON (BOOK 1)
The New York Times bestselling first novel in the sensational Bone Season series, a heart-pounding epic fantasy by the author of The Priory of the Orange Tree.
“Intelligent, inventive, dark, and engrossing.” NPR
Welcome to Scion. No safer place.
The year is 2059. For two centuries, the Republic of Scion has led an oppressive campaign against unnaturalness in Europe.
In London, Paige Mahoney holds a high rank in the criminal underworld. The right hand of the ruthless White Binder, Paige is a dreamwalker, a rare and formidable kind of clairvoyant. Under Scion law, she commits treason simply by breathing.
When Paige is arrested for murder, she meets the mysterious founders of Scion, who have designs on her uncommon abilities. If she is to survive and escape, Paige must use every skill at her disposal – and put her trust in someone who ought to be her enemy.
With its intricate worldbuilding, slow burn romance, and “complex, ever evolving, scrappy yet touching” (NPR) heroine, the Bone Season series shows Samantha Shannon at the height of her considerable powers.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Samantha Shannon’s The Bone Season and its series could be a great choice for readers who enjoy intricate world-building, supernatural elements, and strong, complex female protagonists. Set in a dystopian future where clairvoyants are hunted by a totalitarian government, the novel offers a unique blend of fantasy, mystery, and paranormal intrigue. The protagonist, Paige Mahoney, navigates a world of shadowy forces and powers that can control or destroy her, making the story an exciting, suspenseful journey filled with twists and turns. The author weaves in deep themes about power, control, and resistance, making it thought-provoking for mature readers who appreciate complex narratives and character growth. However, the book may not be ideal for younger readers or those sensitive to certain themes. While there is no explicit sexual content, there are some instances of sexual tension and suggestive situations that may feel uncomfortable for some families. The violence is another point of concern, with dark and often brutal moments as characters fight for survival in a hostile world. The language includes some swearing, and the tone of the book can be mature at times, dealing with complex emotional and psychological themes. The story’s dense world-building and darker subject matter may also be difficult for younger readers to fully engage with. Overall, The Bone Season is better suited for readers who are ready for a mature, intense experience in a richly developed dystopian world.
AUTHOR NEAL SHUSTERMAN
SCYTHE (BOOK 1)
Two teens must learn the “art of killing” in this Printz Honor–winning book, the first in a chilling new series from Neal Shusterman, author of the New York Times bestselling Unwind dystology.
A world with no hunger, no disease, no war, no misery: humanity has conquered all those things, and has even conquered death. Now Scythes are the only ones who can end life—and they are commanded to do so, in order to keep the size of the population under control.
Citra and Rowan are chosen to apprentice to a scythe—a role that neither wants. These teens must master the “art” of taking life, knowing that the consequence of failure could mean losing their own.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Neal Shusterman’s Scythe and its series offer an intriguing exploration of morality, power, and the consequences of a utopian society where death is controlled. Set in a world where humanity has conquered disease and aging, the narrative focuses on two young apprentices who train to become Scythes, responsible for deciding who lives and who dies. The premise of a world without natural death raises deep ethical questions, making it an engaging and thought-provoking read for readers who enjoy philosophical dilemmas and dystopian settings. The themes of choice, control, and the value of life add depth to the story, making it a fascinating and intellectually stimulating choice for readers who appreciate complex, morally gray narratives. However, Scythe contains some darker themes and violence that might be unsettling for some readers or families. While there is no explicit sexual content, there are moments of intense violence as the apprentices must carry out their duties, which could be disturbing for more sensitive readers. The book also tackles heavy topics such as the ethics of killing and the implications of absolute power, which could be unsettling for younger readers. The tone of the book is often dark and tense, exploring themes of mortality and power, making it more suitable for readers who can engage with these complex and mature concepts. Overall, Scythe is a compelling choice for readers ready to confront challenging ideas, but it may not be appropriate for those looking for lighter or less intense content.
AUTHOR NEAL SHUSTERMAN
UNWIND (BOOK 1)
Three teens fight for their lives and each other in this breathtakingly suspenseful first book in the twisted, New York Times bestselling Unwind Dystology series by Neal Shusterman.
After America’s Second Civil War, the Pro-Choice and Pro-Life armies came to an agreement. According to their Bill of Life, human life may not be terminated from the moment of conception until the age of thirteen. But between the ages of thirteen and eighteen, the child may be gotten rid of by their parent through a process called “unwinding.”
By repurposing a teen’s organs and other body parts in living recipients, the unwound child’s life doesn’t technically end. According to society’s leaders, unwinding leads to a healthier and safer community, as troublesome and unwanted teens are used for the greater good.
Conner is a rebel whose unwinding was ordered by his parents. Rita, a ward of the state, has been slated for unwinding due to cost cutting. And Lev, his parents’ tenth child, has been destined for unwinding since birth as a religious tithe. As their paths intersect, they start to fight for their own destinies. But do they stand a chance of escaping their fate or proving their lives are worth saving?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Neal Shusterman’s Unwind series is a thought-provoking dystopian narrative set in a future where unwanted teenagers are "unwound," meaning their body parts are harvested for transplantation. The book explores themes of identity, the sanctity of life, and the ethical questions surrounding medical technology. The complex, morally ambiguous situations faced by the characters push readers to think critically about the value of human life, autonomy, and the consequences of a society that views individuals as disposable. For readers who enjoy deep, philosophical narratives with a focus on social and ethical issues, Unwind provides an engaging and intellectually stimulating experience. However, Unwind contains mature and unsettling content, including violence, ethical dilemmas, and dark themes surrounding bodily autonomy and sacrifice. The idea of "unwinding" is gruesome and unsettling, and there are scenes depicting intense violence, which may be disturbing to some readers. While there is no sexual content, the book does address complex and difficult concepts related to life and death, and the characters often face dangerous situations. These elements may not be suitable for younger readers or those who are sensitive to graphic violence and challenging themes. Overall, Unwind is a powerful book that would resonate with readers who appreciate dystopian stories and can handle darker, more mature subject matter.
AUTHOR HEATHER TERRELL
RELIC
Discover a new dark age—and the one girl wielding the light of truth—in a tale “with threads from The Hunger Games, The Giver, and other dystopian novels” (Booklist).
For more than a hundred years, no maiden from Aerie has competed in the arduous Testing, but after Eva’s twin brother dies, she is determined to fulfill his dream of participating in the all-male competition, and enters despite her parents’ wishes.
With the help of Lukas, her family’s servant from the Boundary lands, Eva learns the ways of the outcasts who live in the brutal and icy world beyond Aerie. She discovers the secrets of the blinding white landscape, the dogs who pull her sled, and the chasms that house the strange relics once worshipped by a godless humanity. This knowledge is exactly what she needs to survive—and win—the harsh trials of the Testing.
Leaving the safety of Aerie behind gives Eva a chance to realize how strong she can be in the face of adversity—and how brave she’ll have to become in a society built on the shifting snows of lies . . .
“Heather Terrell excavates a richly realized and adventurous world from the iced-over wreck of our own.” —William Alexander, National Book Award–winning author of Goblin Secrets
“Part post-apocalyptic fiction and part high fantasy . . . Delicately weaving in elements of Inuit culture as well as elements you might find in Game of Thrones, Heather Terrell creates a world that is as intricate as it is icy . . . A page-turner.” —E. Kristen Anderson, editor of Dear Teen Me
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Relic by Heather Terrell offers a dystopian adventure that stands out for its clean content and thought-provoking themes. The story follows Eva, a young woman who challenges societal norms by participating in a perilous quest traditionally reserved for men. The novel contains minimal violence, no explicit sexual content, and no strong language, making it a suitable choice for families seeking a young adult novel that encourages critical thinking without exposing readers to mature content. The romance is subtle and non-graphic, serving more as a subplot that complements Eva's journey of self-discovery. However, Relic might not appeal to readers looking for fast-paced action or complex romantic dynamics. The narrative focuses more on Eva's internal growth and the societal structures she navigates, which may feel slow to those accustomed to high-stakes thrillers. Additionally, while the book's themes are intellectually stimulating, some readers might find the world-building and plot development less engaging compared to other dystopian novels. Nonetheless, for readers interested in a clean, thoughtful exploration of societal norms and personal courage, Relic provides a meaningful and age-appropriate experience.
AUTHOR AMY TINTERA
REBOOT (BOOK 1)
In this fast-paced dystopian thrill ride from New York Times–bestselling author Amy Tintera, perfect for fans of The Hunger Games, Legend, and Divergent, a seventeen-year-old girl returns from death as a Reboot and is trained as an elite crime-fighting soldier . . . until she is given an order she refuses to obey.
Wren Connolly died five years ago, only to Reboot after 178 minutes. Now she is one of the deadliest Reboots around . . . unlike her newest trainee, Callum 22, who is practically still human. As Wren tries to teach Callum how to be a soldier, his hopeful smile works its way past her defenses. Unfortunately, Callum’s big heart also makes him a liability, and Wren is ordered to eliminate him. To save Callum, Wren will have to risk it all.
Wren’s captivating voice and unlikely romance with Callum will keep readers glued to the page in Amy Tintera’s high-stakes alternate reality, and diving straight into its action-packed sequel, Rebel.
Don’t miss Amy Tintera’s new fantasy series, Ruined—full of epic stakes, sweeping romance, hidden identities, and scheming siblings.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Amy Tintera’s Reboot series offers an exciting mix of action, dystopian themes, and emotional depth. Set in a world where people who have died are "rebooted" into a stronger, faster version of themselves, the series explores themes of identity, morality, and redemption. The protagonist, Wren, is one of the most powerful reboots, and her journey to understand what it means to be human in a society that views reboots as expendable is compelling. For readers who enjoy fast-paced action, strong character development, and a world that questions the boundaries of life and death, Reboot is an engaging choice. The relationship between Wren and her reboot partner, Callum, adds an emotional layer to the story, with the tension between their growing connection and the challenges they face being an integral part of the series. However, Reboot also contains some mature themes that might not be suitable for all readers. There is a level of violence in the series, as the reboots are trained soldiers, and the story includes battle scenes and moments of intense physical conflict. While the romantic relationship between Wren and Callum develops throughout the series, the sexual content is minimal, with a few scenes that involve implied intimacy rather than explicit detail. The primary content concern is the emotional toll of the characters' experiences, with a focus on loss, trauma, and the ethical implications of living in a dystopian society. For families looking for a story that combines action with deeper emotional and philosophical themes, Reboot can be a good choice, but parents should consider whether their child is ready for the more intense violence and moral dilemmas the series presents.
AUTHOR SCOTT WESTERFELD
UGLIES (BOOK 1)
Now a major motion picture streaming on Netflix!
The first installment of Scott Westerfeld’s New York Times bestselling and award-winning Uglies series—a global phenomenon that started the dystopian trend.
Tally is about to turn sixteen, and she can’t wait. In just a few weeks she’ll have the operation that will turn her from a repellent ugly into a stunningly attractive pretty. And as a pretty, she’ll be catapulted into a high-tech paradise where her only job is to have fun.
But Tally’s new friend Shay isn’t sure she wants to become a pretty. When Shay runs away, Tally learns about a whole new side of the pretty world—and it isn’t very pretty. The authorities offer Tally a choice: find her friend and turn her in, or never turn pretty at all. Tally’s choice will change her world forever.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Scott Westerfeld’s Uglies series is a great choice for readers interested in dystopian fiction with strong social commentary and engaging world-building. The series takes place in a future society where everyone is required to undergo a surgical procedure at the age of 16 to become "pretty," conforming to a standardized beauty ideal. This concept of forced conformity explores themes of identity, self-worth, and the pressures of societal expectations, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy thought-provoking content. The protagonist, Tally Youngblood, begins her journey as a typical citizen, eager to undergo the transformation, but as she unravels the truth about the society she lives in, she faces important ethical and personal dilemmas. The series incorporates exciting action, a strong sense of rebellion, and evolving relationships, with Tally's personal growth at the forefront of the narrative. On the other hand, Uglies may not be ideal for all readers, depending on their preferences for content. While the series contains little in the way of explicit sexual content, there are romantic relationships that develop between characters, with some tension and kissing scenes, though they remain relatively mild. Violence is more prominent, particularly as the protagonist becomes involved in rebellion and struggles against the societal control that enforces the "pretty" procedure. While the series focuses heavily on moral choices, loyalty, and friendship, some parents might be concerned about the complex and at times unsettling themes, such as body image, control, and the idea of altering one’s identity. These thought-provoking issues, along with a handful of mild swearing and physical conflict, could be a point of concern for families seeking lighter content. However, for readers ready for a deeper exploration of self-image and societal expectations, Uglies offers a compelling and rich narrative.
AUTHOR RICK YANCEY
THE 5TH WAVE (BOOK 1)
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • A gripping tale of catastrophic loss, unthinkable odds, and unflinching courage in the first book in epic series from award-winning author Rick Yancey.
"Remarkable, not-to-be-missed-under-any-circumstances."—Entertainment Weekly
"A modern sci-fi masterpiece . . ."—USAToday.com
After the 1st wave, only darkness remains. After the 2nd, only the lucky escape. And after the 3rd, only the unlucky survive. After the 4th wave, only one rule applies: trust no one.
Now, it's the dawn of the 5th wave, and on a lonely stretch of highway, Cassie runs from Them. The beings who only look human, who roam the countryside killing anyone they see. Who have scattered Earth's last survivors. To stay alone is to stay alive, Cassie believes, until she meets Evan Walker. Beguiling and mysterious, Evan Walker may be Cassie's only hope for rescuing her brother--or even saving herself. But Cassie must choose: between trust and despair, between defiance and surrender, between life and death. To give up or to get up.
"Wildly entertaining . . . I couldn't turn the pages fast enough."—Justin Cronin, The New York Times Book Review
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Rick Yancey’s The 5th Wave series is a gripping choice for readers who enjoy post-apocalyptic fiction mixed with alien invasions and high-stakes survival. The story centers around Cassie Sullivan, a teenage girl trying to survive in a world decimated by extraterrestrial forces that have wiped out most of humanity through waves of destruction. The series offers intense action, moments of deep emotional connection, and a protagonist who must navigate both external dangers and the internal struggle of trust and survival. The blend of sci-fi, thriller, and romance makes it an engaging read for fans of fast-paced, character-driven narratives. However, there are some elements in the series that might be concerning for certain readers. While there is no explicit sexual content, the series does feature some romantic tension and mild kissing between characters, with a focus on emotional relationships rather than physicality. Violence is a significant component of the series, as the characters fight against the alien invasion and face life-or-death scenarios, including deaths and injuries that could be disturbing to sensitive readers. There is also some swearing, though it is not excessive. Parents may want to consider these darker themes, as the novel explores loss, betrayal, and fear in a world where survival is uncertain. While it is an exciting and thought-provoking read for older teens, it may be too intense or unsettling for younger readers or those seeking lighter content.
AUTHOR SUZANNE YOUNG
THE PROGRAM (BOOK 1)
The first book in Suzanne Young’s New York Times bestselling series is a “gripping tale for lovers of dystopian romance” (Kirkus Reviews) about two teens in a world where true feelings are forbidden, teen suicide is an epidemic, and the only solution is The Program—now with a freshly reimagined look.
Sloane knows better than to cry in front of anyone. With suicide now an international epidemic, one outburst could land her in The Program, the only proven course of treatment. Sloane’s parents have already lost one child; Sloane knows they’ll do anything to keep her alive. She also knows that everyone who’s been through The Program returns as a blank slate. Because their depression is gone—but so are their memories.
Under constant surveillance at home and at school, Sloane puts on a brave face and keeps her feelings buried as deep as she can. The only person Sloane can be herself with is James. He’s promised to keep them both safe and out of treatment, and Sloane knows their love is strong enough to withstand anything. But despite the promises they made to each other, it’s getting harder to hide the truth. They are both growing weaker. Depression is setting in.
And The Program is coming for them.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Suzanne Young’s The Program series is a compelling choice for readers who enjoy dystopian fiction with a focus on mental health, societal pressures, and emotional depth. Set in a world where suicide rates among teenagers are dangerously high, the story follows Sloane, a young girl struggling with her own feelings of depression and the societal system that enforces “The Program” to erase memories of those who have lost hope. The series addresses complex themes such as grief, loss, and the battle for autonomy over one's own mind, making it an emotionally powerful exploration of the human condition. The mix of romance and drama adds an additional layer of personal stakes, engaging readers in the characters' emotional journeys as they fight to retain their identities and memories in a world that seeks to erase them. However, The Program series deals with heavy and sometimes troubling content that may not be suitable for all readers. There are moments of implied and explicit emotional trauma, including suicidal thoughts, self-harm, and the deep psychological effects of losing memories. While the series doesn't focus extensively on explicit sexual content, there are instances of kissing and intimate moments between characters, though they are not the primary focus of the narrative. Violence and disturbing situations also occur throughout the story, which could be unsettling for sensitive readers. Additionally, the book includes some instances of strong language and tough, raw emotional situations that may be intense for certain readers. Due to these serious themes, parents might consider whether their child is ready for the complex emotional and psychological challenges presented in the story.