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Featured Book
(mild teen romance [kissing, love triangle], non‑graphic violence, almost no swearing)
AUTHOR BRIDGET E. BAKER
MARKED (BOOK 1)
The world we knew is GONE.
Ruby had barely started kindergarten when the world collapsed, but by now she's over it. Like, really over it. To celebrate their upcoming graduation, the teenagers in Port Gibson are gathering to play a forbidden game from Before, a game called spin the bottle.
Pretty much every girl in Port Gibson likes the same two guys, and Ruby knows them both. Wesley, the charismatic son of the town Mayor who's being groomed to step into his dad's job, and Sam, the ripped but terrifying second-in-command to the town's Security Chief. But only Wesley's graduating with Ruby, and if he shows up, she's determined to finally seize her chance to kiss her long time crush.
When things go sideways, endangering her dear Wesley's life, there's only one person Ruby can ask for help, no matter how scary and enigmatic he is: Samuel Roth. Can Ruby convince Sam to risk his life to save Wesley's? And can Ruby navigate the post-apocalyptic world in time to save her crush, or will the long forgotten past come back to claim its due?
Kirkus Reviews said of Marked, "Baker’s prose is sharp and vivid, and she manages to immediately plunge her readers into the world of the novel. The story is swiftly paced and features some surprising twists and intriguing characters. The combination of sci-fi, mystery, and teen romance makes for a compelling adventure.
Why this book may or may not be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Marked by Bridget E. Baker may be a good choice for families looking for an engaging young adult series that blends dystopian tension with light romance. The story centers around a society where purity and perfection are strictly enforced, and the protagonist faces difficult choices that challenge authority and morality. The romance element is present but restrained, focusing more on emotional connection and a love triangle than on physical intimacy. There are no explicit sexual scenes—just mild kissing and romantic tension—which many readers may find appropriate and even refreshing compared to more mature YA titles. However, some families may find the dystopian themes and moral dilemmas a bit heavy, especially those involving government control, forced medical interventions, and survival under harsh rules. While violence is not graphic, there are moments of tension and danger that could be unsettling for more sensitive readers. Additionally, though swearing is minimal, the underlying themes about societal control, genetic manipulation, and rebellion might prompt deeper questions or concerns depending on a family's values. Overall, it’s a thoughtful and clean read for teens, but parents may want to discuss the themes alongside their children.
(includes moderate violence and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR TOM ABRAHAMS
PREPPER (BOOK 1)
THE POWER IS GONE. IT WAS NO ACCIDENT. ONLY THE PREPARED WILL SURVIVE.
Before the lights went out, Jack Warrant never considered himself a prepper. That was someone on the edge, a conspiracy theorist or a doomsday cultist who had a fatalistic view of the world. He was neither a theorist nor a cultist. He was an optimist. At least that was what he told himself when the darker thoughts creeped into his psyche as he stared at the ceiling in the middle of the night. Whenever he started down the rabbit hole, he always clawed his way back into the sunlight. Then the world as he knew it ended, and he realized he was wrong. About himself. About the lengths to which desperate people will go.
Why this book may or may not be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Prepper by Tom Abrahams is a compelling choice for readers who appreciate post-apocalyptic survival narratives with a focus on realism and preparedness. The story follows Jack Warrant, a suburban man who transforms into a survivalist after a catastrophic event disables the power grid, exploring themes of resilience, self-reliance, and the complexities of human behavior in crisis situations. Violence is present, primarily in the context of survival and self-defense, but it is not gratuitous. The language includes occasional swearing, aligning with the intense scenarios depicted. There is minimal to no explicit sexual content, making it suitable for readers who prefer action-driven plots without graphic romantic elements. However, Prepper might not be the best fit for families or readers sensitive to themes of societal collapse and the moral dilemmas that arise in such settings. The narrative delves into the darker aspects of human nature when societal structures fail, which could be unsettling for some. Additionally, while the book emphasizes survival tactics and the importance of being prepared, it may not appeal to those looking for lighter, more optimistic stories. Overall, Prepper is well-suited for mature teens and adults interested in realistic survival fiction that examines the challenges and ethical questions posed by a world in disarray.
(contains frequent strong language, intense violence including physical abuse, and brief mentions of sexual content)
AUTHOR PAOLO BACIGALUPI
SHIP BREAKER (BOOK 1)
Set in a dark future America devastated by the forces of climate change, this thrilling bestseller and National Book Finalist is a gritty, high-stakes adventure of a teenage boy faced with conflicting loyalties.
In America's flooded Gulf Coast region, oil is scarce, but loyalty is scarcer. Grounded oil tankers are being broken down for parts by crews of young people. Nailer, a teenage boy, works the light crew, scavenging for copper wiring just to make quota--and hopefully live to see another day. But when, by luck or by chance, he discovers an exquisite clipper ship beached during a recent hurricane, Nailer faces the most important decision of his life: Strip the ship for all it's worth or rescue its lone survivor, a beautiful and wealthy girl who could lead him to a better life....
In this powerful novel, Hugo and Nebula Award winning author Paolo Bacigalupi delivers a fast-paced adventure set in the vivid and raw, uncertain future of his companion novels The Drowned Cities and Tool of War.
"Suzanne Collins may have put dystopian literature on the YA map with The Hunger Games...but Bacigalupi is one of the genre's masters, employing inventively terrifying details in equally imaginative story lines." —Los Angeles Times
Why this book may or may not be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi is a gripping, award-winning dystopian novel that can be a powerful choice for families or teens interested in thought-provoking, action-packed stories set in a gritty, realistic future. The novel follows Nailer, a teenager working in dangerous conditions salvaging shipwrecks, as he faces moral dilemmas, betrayal, and the fight for survival. It's full of high-stakes adventure, layered characters, and themes like environmental collapse, class divide, and personal resilience, all of which can lead to meaningful discussions. The writing is compelling and fast-paced, making it a good fit for readers who are ready to handle darker, more mature themes in a YA context. That said, Ship Breaker does contain some content that may concern parents. The violence is often intense and includes child abuse and brutal physical fights. There’s frequent strong language—well over 200 instances—and occasional mentions of sexual threats or implications, though there are no explicit sex scenes. While there is a romantic subplot, it’s subtle and not the story’s focus. Because of these elements, this book is best suited for mature teens who can process gritty realities and emotional complexity. For families okay with raw content in service of deeper storytelling, Ship Breaker offers a challenging but rewarding read.
(mild teen romance [kissing, love triangle], non‑graphic violence, almost no swearing)
AUTHOR BRIDGET E. BAKER
MARKED (BOOK 1)
The world we knew is GONE.
Ruby had barely started kindergarten when the world collapsed, but by now she's over it. Like, really over it. To celebrate their upcoming graduation, the teenagers in Port Gibson are gathering to play a forbidden game from Before, a game called spin the bottle.
Pretty much every girl in Port Gibson likes the same two guys, and Ruby knows them both. Wesley, the charismatic son of the town Mayor who's being groomed to step into his dad's job, and Sam, the ripped but terrifying second-in-command to the town's Security Chief. But only Wesley's graduating with Ruby, and if he shows up, she's determined to finally seize her chance to kiss her long time crush.
When things go sideways, endangering her dear Wesley's life, there's only one person Ruby can ask for help, no matter how scary and enigmatic he is: Samuel Roth. Can Ruby convince Sam to risk his life to save Wesley's? And can Ruby navigate the post-apocalyptic world in time to save her crush, or will the long forgotten past come back to claim its due?
Kirkus Reviews said of Marked, "Baker’s prose is sharp and vivid, and she manages to immediately plunge her readers into the world of the novel. The story is swiftly paced and features some surprising twists and intriguing characters. The combination of sci-fi, mystery, and teen romance makes for a compelling adventure.
Why this book may or may not be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Marked by Bridget E. Baker may be a good choice for families looking for an engaging young adult series that blends dystopian tension with light romance. The story centers around a society where purity and perfection are strictly enforced, and the protagonist faces difficult choices that challenge authority and morality. The romance element is present but restrained, focusing more on emotional connection and a love triangle than on physical intimacy. There are no explicit sexual scenes—just mild kissing and romantic tension—which many readers may find appropriate and even refreshing compared to more mature YA titles. However, some families may find the dystopian themes and moral dilemmas a bit heavy, especially those involving government control, forced medical interventions, and survival under harsh rules. While violence is not graphic, there are moments of tension and danger that could be unsettling for more sensitive readers. Additionally, though swearing is minimal, the underlying themes about societal control, genetic manipulation, and rebellion might prompt deeper questions or concerns depending on a family's values. Overall, it’s a thoughtful and clean read for teens, but parents may want to discuss the themes alongside their children.
(suspense, a little bit of romance, and some profanity)
AUTHOR DAVID BALDACCI
THE FINISHER (BOOK 1)
Vega Jane was always told no one could leave the town of Wormwood. She was told there was nothing outside but a forest filled with danger and death. And she always believed it -- until the night she saw Quentin Herms run away.
Vega knows Quentin didn't just leave -- he was chased. And he left behind a trail of clues that point to a dark conspiracy at the heart of Wormwood. To follow the clues will attract the attention of influential people willing to kill to keep their secrets. If Vega wants to stay safe, she just needs to keep her head down and her mouth shut. There's only one problem -- Vega Jane never walks away from a fight.
The #1 New York Times bestseller by David Baldacci now includes a never-before-seen chapter, a behind-the-scenes look at the making of The Finisher, and a special world guide -- for e-readers only!
He introduces an unforgettable heroine who must think fast, hit hard, and defy all odds to uncover the truth.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
David Baldacci’s The Finisher, the first installment in the Vega Jane series, presents a richly imagined fantasy world that blends elements of dystopia, magic, and adventure. The story follows Vega Jane, a fourteen-year-old girl living in the isolated village of Wormwood, who uncovers unsettling truths about her community and embarks on a perilous journey beyond its borders. The novel offers a strong female protagonist and a fast-paced narrative that may appeal to readers who enjoy complex world-building and themes of self-discovery. However, parents should be aware of certain content that may not be suitable for all readers. The book contains intense and sometimes graphic violence, including detailed fight scenes and perilous encounters with monstrous creatures. There are instances of mild profanity, with approximately 35 mild obscenities noted. Sexual content is minimal but includes a scene where the protagonist undresses to her underwear to reveal a drawing, and another where she undergoes a makeover that draws unwanted attention from older men, which some reviewers found inappropriate for the character's age. Additionally, the book portrays a society with sexist undertones, where women are often referred to as "females," and includes a caricatured depiction of religious authority. Given these elements, The Finisher may be more appropriate for older teens who can critically engage with its mature themes and content.
(contains mild romance, some violence, and light swearing, with minimal sexual content, making it suitable for older teens due to its mature themes and action)
AUTHOR AMY A. BARTOL
SECONDBORN (BOOK 1)
Firstborns rule society. Secondborns are the property of the government. Thirdborns are not tolerated. Long live the Fates Republic.
On Transition Day, the second child in every family is taken by the government and forced into servitude. Roselle St. Sismode’s eighteenth birthday arrives with harsh realizations: she’s to become a soldier for the Fate of Swords military arm of the Republic during the bloodiest rebellion in history, and her elite firstborn mother is happy to see her go.
Televised since her early childhood, Roselle’s privileged upbringing has earned her the resentment of her secondborn peers. Now her decision to spare an enemy on the battlefield marks her as a traitor to the state.
But Roselle finds an ally—and more—in fellow secondborn conscript Hawthorne Trugrave. As the consequences of her actions ripple throughout the Fates Republic, can Roselle create a destiny of her own? Or will her Fate override everything she fights for—even love?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Amy A. Bartol’s Secondborn series offers a gripping dystopian narrative set in a society where secondborn children are conscripted into government service, exploring themes of identity, rebellion, and societal structure. The protagonist, Roselle St. Sismode, navigates a world of political intrigue and personal challenges, providing readers with a strong female lead and a fast-paced storyline. The series has been praised for its engaging plot and the depth of its world-building, making it an appealing choice for fans of dystopian fiction. However, the series contains content that may not be suitable for all readers. Notable content warnings include instances of sexual assault, and depictions of emotional abuse. The narrative also includes scenes of violence and bloodshed, consistent with its dystopian setting. Given these elements, the Secondborn series is more appropriate for older teens and adults who can navigate and process mature themes and content.
(Some violence and dark themes)
AUTHOR ALEXANDRA BRACKEN
THE DARKEST MINDS (BOOK 1)
Book one in the hit series that's soon to be a major motion picture starring Amandla Stenberg and Mandy Moore--now with a stunning new look and an exclusive bonus short story featuring Liam and his brother, Cole.
When Ruby woke up on her tenth birthday, something about her had changed. Something alarming enough to make her parents lock her in the garage and call the police. Something that got her sent to Thurmond, a brutal government "rehabilitation camp." She might have survived the mysterious disease that killed most of America's children, but she and the others emerged with something far worse: frightening abilities they cannot control.
Now sixteen, Ruby is one of the dangerous ones.
But when the truth about Ruby's abilities--the truth she's hidden from everyone, even the camp authorities--comes out, Ruby barely escapes Thurmond with her life. On the run, she joins a group of kids who escaped their own camp: Zu, a young girl haunted by her past; Chubs, a standoffish brainiac; and Liam, their fearless leader, who is falling hard for Ruby. But no matter how much she aches for him, Ruby can't risk getting close. Not after what happened to her parents.
While they journey to find the one safe haven left for kids like them--East River--they must evade their determined pursuers, including an organization that will stop at nothing to use Ruby in their fight against the government. But as they get closer to grasping the things they've dreamed of, Ruby will be faced with a terrible choice, one that may mean giving up her only chance at a life worth living.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Alexandra Bracken’s The Darkest Minds series offers a compelling dystopian narrative that delves into themes of survival, identity, and resistance, featuring a strong and resourceful female protagonist, Ruby Daly. Set in a future where a deadly disease has wiped out most of America's children, those who survive develop dangerous abilities and are subsequently detained in brutal government-run camps. The series follows Ruby's journey as she escapes captivity and joins a group of fellow teens seeking refuge and purpose. The books are praised for their emotional depth, complex characters, and exploration of moral dilemmas, making them engaging for readers who appreciate thought-provoking science fiction. However, the series contains several elements that may be concerning for some readers and parents. Notably, there are instances of sexual assault, including a scene where a character attempts to assault Ruby, which is depicted with significant emotional intensity. Violence is prevalent throughout the series, encompassing gun violence, physical assaults, and scenes of children being harmed or killed. Additionally, there are moments of mild swearing and some partial nudity, such as brief glimpses of characters in undergarments during non-sexual contexts. These mature themes are integral to the story's exploration of trauma and resilience but may be unsettling for younger readers. Given the intensity of these elements, the series is more appropriate for older teens and adults who can critically engage with its mature content.
(includes mild violence, brief suicidal themes, dystopian oppression, and minimal swearing but no sexual content or romance)
AUTHOR RAY BRADBURY
FAHRENHEIT 451 (BOOK 1)
Nearly seventy years after its original publication, Ray Bradbury’s internationally acclaimed novel Fahrenheit 451 stands as a classic of world literature set in a bleak, dystopian future. Today its message has grown more relevant than ever before.
Guy Montag is a fireman. His job is to destroy the most illegal of commodities, the printed book, along with the houses in which they are hidden. Montag never questions the destruction and ruin his actions produce, returning each day to his bland life and wife, Mildred, who spends all day with her television “family.” But when he meets an eccentric young neighbor, Clarisse, who introduces him to a past where people didn’t live in fear and to a present where one sees the world through the ideas in books instead of the mindless chatter of television, Montag begins to question everything he has ever known.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Ray Bradbury's Fahrenheit 451 is a classic dystopian novel that explores themes of censorship, intellectual freedom, and the impact of technology on society. The story follows Guy Montag, a fireman in a future where books are banned and "firemen" burn any that are found. As Montag becomes increasingly disillusioned with the oppressive society, he begins to question his role and the world around him. The novel’s thought-provoking themes make it an excellent choice for readers interested in literature that tackles important social issues, and it can spark deep discussions about freedom, individuality, and the dangers of conformity. However, Fahrenheit 451 may be a challenging choice for younger readers due to its dark, dystopian setting and mature themes. There is some mild violence in the book, particularly in scenes involving book burnings, which can be disturbing. While there is no explicit sexual content, the novel includes references to Montag’s wife, Mildred, who is emotionally distant and engaged in shallow pursuits, including an implied lack of a meaningful relationship. Additionally, some elements of the novel, like its depiction of a society heavily reliant on technology and media, may feel particularly relevant or unsettling for modern readers. Overall, the book is best suited for older teens and adults who can engage with its complex ideas about censorship, society, and individual responsibility.
(contains intense violence, disturbing themes, mild romance, and strong language)
AUTHOR M. R. CAREY
THE GIRL WITH ALL THE GIFTS (BOOK 1)
Melanie is a very special girl. Dr Caldwell calls her "our little genius."
Every morning, Melanie waits in her cell to be collected for class. When they come for her, Sergeant keeps his gun pointing at her while two of his people strap her into the wheelchair. She thinks they don't like her. She jokes that she won't bite, but they don't laugh.
The Girl With All the Gifts is a groundbreaking thriller, emotionally charged and gripping from beginning to end.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
M. R. Carey’s The Girl with All the Gifts is a captivating blend of post-apocalyptic fiction and science fiction, featuring a unique take on the zombie genre. The story follows Melanie, a young girl who lives in a military-run facility with other children who have been infected by a virus that turns most people into mindless, flesh-eating “Hungries.” As Melanie's intelligence and ability to think like a human challenge the typical zombie story, the novel explores themes of survival, morality, and what it means to be human. The book is well-written and thought-provoking, offering readers a new perspective on the dystopian genre, with emotional depth and complex characters that add to its appeal. However, The Girl with All the Gifts does contain violent and graphic content, including scenes of cannibalism and gruesome deaths, which could be distressing for more sensitive readers. The narrative also touches on complex moral dilemmas as the characters wrestle with questions of humanity, survival, and ethics in a collapsed world. While there is no explicit sexual content, there are subtle references to relationships and emotional connections between characters that are not the focus of the story. The novel is more suited to mature readers due to its intense, often disturbing content and its examination of difficult philosophical questions in an apocalyptic context. While the book excels in its emotional and intellectual depth, it may not be the best choice for younger or more sensitive readers due to its mature themes and unsettling violence.
(no sex, language, or anything inappropriate)
AUTHOR KIERA CASS
THE SELECTION (BOOK 1)
For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape a rigid caste system, live in a palace, and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon. But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her, and competing for a crown she doesn’t want.
Then America meets Prince Maxon—and realizes that the life she’s always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Kiera Cass’s The Selection is a captivating blend of romance, dystopia, and coming-of-age elements. Set in a future society where the monarchy holds a competition to find a prince's bride, the story follows America Singer, a young woman torn between her love for someone outside of the competition and her growing feelings for Prince Maxon. The novel’s strength lies in its strong emotional connections, relatable characters, and the romantic tension that drives the plot. The book delves into themes of self-identity, loyalty, and the struggle between personal desires and societal expectations, making it appealing to readers who enjoy romance with a touch of political intrigue. While The Selection offers an engaging story, it does include some elements that might raise concerns for parents. The romance, while not explicit, is a key component of the story and may be more emotionally intense, with some scenes of kissing and romantic tension. The focus on the beauty pageant-style competition also introduces themes of superficiality and rivalry among the contestants, which could be a negative influence on younger readers. However, the book avoids explicit sexual content, and the violence is minimal, primarily limited to the context of the competition and the political unrest in the background. Overall, The Selection is more suited for readers who enjoy romantic, dramatic plots, but it may not be ideal for those seeking a completely wholesome or violence-free story.
(dystopian violence, political rebellion, romantic tension, and societal injustice)
AUTHOR CORDELIA K. CASTEL
THE PRINCESS TRIALS (BOOK 1)
Thirty young women. A handsome prince. A battle to the death
Water is scarce. Deserts have taken over the land. Nuclear war has devastated humanity. Humans live in walled super cities to keep out the irradiated. The land that was formerly known as America is divided into kingdoms ruled by royal elites.
Born into the lowest Echelon of the Kingdom of Phangloria, sixteen-year-old Zea Calico faces a life of hunger, thirst, and toil. The only way out of this drudgery is revolution, and Zea is desperate to help the cause.
When the palace calls for candidates to compete to marry Prince Kevon, Zea joins the Princess Trials to search the palace for weaknesses.
The trials should be a fairytale of sumptuous meals, ballgowns, and romance, but one misplaced word causes Zea to attract the Prince’s attention. When Zea uncovers the man beneath Prince Kevon’s public facade, she is at risk of falling in love and losing sight of her mission.
But the televised beauty pageant turns deadly, and Zea must fight for survival.
Perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and The Selection, this exciting tale of courage, intrigue, and betrayal will have you turning pages.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Princess Trials by Cordelia K. Castel is an engaging mix of dystopian, romance, and adventure that will captivate readers who enjoy a competitive, high-stakes environment. Set in a world where young women must compete in dangerous trials to become the next princess, the story follows the protagonist, Carya, as she navigates the trials while questioning the fairness of the competition. The book offers a strong female lead, a compelling love triangle, and a thought-provoking examination of societal structures and power dynamics. It will appeal to readers who enjoy stories filled with suspense, romance, and character growth as they watch Carya battle against the oppressive system that aims to control her future. While The Princess Trials has many positive qualities, some elements might not suit every reader or family. The book includes some mild violence, as the trials are designed to be dangerous, and some scenes may be intense for sensitive readers. The romantic elements are present but not explicit—there is a love triangle that adds emotional drama, and while it focuses more on relationships than physical intimacy, the characters’ emotional connections may feel intense at times. Parents might also find the book’s exploration of beauty standards and competition over marriage somewhat problematic, as it could promote unhealthy ideals about appearance and self-worth. Overall, it is a well-crafted, engaging read, but some themes might be challenging for younger or more sensitive readers
(intense scenes, violence, no sex, mild cursing)
Editor's
Favorite
AUTHOR SUZANNE COLLINS
THE HUNGER GAMES (BOOK 1)
Winning means fame and fortune. Losing means certain death. The Hunger Games have begun. . . .
In the ruins of a place once known as North America lies the nation of Panem, a shining Capitol surrounded by twelve outlying districts. The Capitol is harsh and cruel and keeps the districts in line by forcing them all to send one boy and one girl between the ages of twelve and eighteen to participate in the annual Hunger Games, a fight to the death on live TV. Sixteen-year-old Katniss Everdeen regards it as a death sentence when she steps forward to take her sister's place in the Games. But Katniss has been close to dead before-and survival, for her, is second nature. Without really meaning to, she becomes a contender. But if she is to win, she will have to start making choices that weigh survival against humanity and life against love.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a gripping, fast-paced dystopian novel that explores themes of survival, power, and societal inequality, making it a powerful choice for readers who enjoy action and thought-provoking narratives. The book introduces Katniss Everdeen, a resilient young woman forced into a deadly competition where children must fight to the death. The story delves into survival instincts, sacrifice, and the impact of violence on individuals and society. Its compelling world-building and complex characters make it an engaging read for those interested in dystopian fiction, and it raises important questions about human nature, media manipulation, and political systems. However, The Hunger Games contains intense violence and darker themes, which might make it a more challenging read for sensitive readers or families who prefer lighter content. The brutal nature of the games and the portrayal of children killing one another can be disturbing, and while there’s no explicit sexual content, there are romantic undertones as Katniss navigates her relationships with two male characters. The emotional weight of the story, including the trauma Katniss experiences, might be unsettling for some readers, especially younger ones. Despite these heavier elements, the novel promotes resilience, bravery, and hope in the face of oppression, but parents may want to consider whether these intense themes are suitable for their family.
(mild romantic elements, including kissing, themes of rebellion, and societal control)
AUTHOR ALLY CONDIE
MATCHED (BOOK 1)
#1 New York Times Bestseller
“[A] superb dystopian romance.” – The Wall Street Journal
“Strong feminist ideals and impressive writing that’s bound to captivate.” – The Los Angeles Times
In the Society, Officials decide. Who you love. Where you work. When you die.
Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.
The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.
Look for the sequel, CROSSED, and the epic series finale, REACHED!
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Matched by Ally Condie offers a compelling story set in a dystopian society where the government controls every aspect of its citizens’ lives, including who they marry. The novel focuses on Cassia Reyes, a young woman who begins to question the system when she starts to fall in love with someone other than her government-assigned partner. The themes of personal freedom, love, and defying oppressive systems are deeply woven into the narrative, providing readers with an engaging story that encourages critical thinking about autonomy, choice, and love. The book's slower pace and thought-provoking concepts can make it a strong choice for readers who enjoy exploring the consequences of societal control and the importance of individuality. While Matched lacks explicit sexual content, it does feature a romantic subplot that includes some kissing and intense emotional moments, making it suitable for a reader looking for a mild romantic element. Some readers may find the slow pacing and lack of action less engaging compared to other dystopian novels, and the emotional tension can sometimes feel heavy. The book also explores themes of rebellion and breaking free from conformity, which might be a bit intense for readers sensitive to these types of topics. Though it avoids graphic content, the emotional complexity and themes of control and resistance may still require careful consideration for younger readers, particularly those who may not be ready for more mature reflections on love and societal pressure.
(contains mild romance, some violence, no sexual content, and occasional swearing)
AUTHOR BRODY COY
TRAPPED IN TRANQUILITY (BOOK 1)
George has finally saved up enough money for an emotion adjustment from Brainexx, a company on the forefront of mental health technology, and he couldn’t be more excited. He has always struggled with mental health, but with a Brainexx chip installation, his depression, fear, anger, and anxiety can all be mitigated. We each have a base level for every emotion, and now we have the power to adjust and set that level exactly where we want it.
George and the rest of the world dive headfirst into this mind-altering technology in a thought-provoking story that explores concepts involving the depths of human emotion, responsibility, sociopolitical issues, power, and the search for meaning. How much are we willing to surrender, to compromise, in order to eliminate all of our suffering?
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Trapped in Tranquility by Brody Coy could be a compelling pick for readers who enjoy dystopian or speculative fiction with a psychological edge. The story explores themes of control, freedom, and reality in a futuristic society, which can spark thoughtful discussion, especially for families who like to analyze deeper meanings in fiction. The writing is clean and the romance is light, with no explicit sexual content—making it approachable for readers who prefer emotional or intellectual tension over physical intimacy. Its content is generally suitable for older teens and adults who enjoy layered narratives without graphic material. On the other hand, some families might find the book’s dystopian themes—such as government manipulation, loss of identity, and subtle but persistent tension—emotionally heavy for more sensitive or younger readers. While the violence is not graphic, the psychological pressure and eerie tone may be unsettling to those who prefer lighter, more optimistic storytelling. Parents looking for uplifting or purely adventurous narratives might not find this series the right fit, especially if they're seeking something with a more traditional or clear-cut moral resolution.
(contains some violence, mild sensual content, occasional swearing, and minimal romance)
AUTHOR BLAKE CROUCH
DARK MATTER
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • OVER ONE MILLION COPIES SOLD! • NOW STREAMING ON APPLE TV+
A “mind-blowing” (Entertainment Weekly) speculative thriller about an ordinary man who awakens in a world inexplicably different from the reality he thought he knew—from the author of Upgrade, Recursion, and the Wayward Pines trilogy
“Are you happy with your life?”
Those are the last words Jason Dessen hears before the kidnapper knocks him unconscious.
Before he awakens to find himself strapped to a gurney, surrounded by strangers in hazmat suits.
Before a man he’s never met smiles down at him and says, “Welcome back, my friend.”
In this world he’s woken up to, Jason’s life is not the one he knows. His wife is not his wife. His son was never born. And Jason is not an ordinary college professor but a celebrated genius who has achieved something remarkable. Something impossible.
Is it this life or the other that’s the dream? And even if the home he remembers is real, how will Jason make it back to the family he loves?
From the bestselling author Blake Crouch, Dark Matter is a mind-bending thriller about choices, paths not taken, and how far we’ll go to claim the lives we dream of.
Why this book may be a good choice for you and/or your family...
Dark Matter by Blake Crouch is a mind-bending sci-fi thriller that explores themes of identity, choices, and alternate realities. The story follows Jason Dessen, a physics professor who is thrust into a parallel universe, leading him to question the life he’s lived and the choices he’s made. The fast-paced, high-stakes narrative keeps readers engaged as they navigate complex ideas about the nature of reality. This makes it a great choice for fans of sci-fi who enjoy deep philosophical questions wrapped in a gripping, action-packed plot. The book also touches on the universal themes of love and regret, giving it emotional depth beyond the thrilling adventure. However, the book does contain some content that may be a concern for younger readers. There are instances of strong language, brief but impactful violence, and some sexual content, including suggestive scenes and references. These elements, while not graphic, may make it less appropriate for younger or more sensitive readers. The emotional intensity and occasional mature themes may also be challenging for some. Overall, Dark Matter is a great choice for older teens or adults who are looking for a complex, thought-provoking narrative, but it may not be ideal for those who prefer more light-hearted or straightforward reading.