A LGBTQ+ graphic novel

The Prince and the Dressmaker

By: Jen Wang

Genre: YA graphic novel/ LGBTQ+

Pages: 284

Published: 2018

Read:  February

3.5 out of 5 stars

This graphic novel had everything going for it. A captivating story line, gorgeous artwork, a timely plot twist. Prince Sebastian is supposed to be looking for a bride, but he has a major secret he is hiding. To aid in his secret, he hires a low life seamstress who is about to get fired to design him exquisite gowns. They become true friends and both benefit greatly from this meaningful relationship. However, as the story comes to a conclusion, it feels rushed and unrealistic; even for this time and age. Due to the nature and development of the characters that Wang created, the unmasking would not have been that easy for young Sebastian.

An Empowering Novel

The Poet X

By: Elizabeth Acevedo

Genre: YA Realistic Fiction

Pages: 368

Published: 2018

Read:  December 2018

4 out of 5 stars

I love how REAL this book is. I think all readers (especially teens), no matter their ethnicity, will be able to relate to some aspect of this book. The reader gets to know and understand the ins and outs of Xiomara’s thoughts and feelings. With the book portraying a poet through the use of poetry the authenticity of story is enhanced. As a reader, one can feel that Acevedo carefully chose every word written and the powerful meaning behind it. All readers will resonate with every beautiful sentence. Acevedo writes about how to be a girl, a sister, a daughter and a teen in today's difficult world.

It’s an important read for everyone.

A Magical Must Read

The Immortalists

By: Chloe Benjamin

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 346

Published: 2018

Read:  January

4 out of 5 stars

If you could find out the day you were going to die, would you? These four young siblings decide to visit a fortune teller to do just that. Some of them shared their dates with each other, some decided to keep it secret. This magical story follows the four siblings through their lives.  Each receiving a turn to tell their story. Benjamin gives a unique voice to each character that you can’t help but want to be friends with them. I usually am not a huge reader of fantasy novels, but this is a must read. I would recommend to older teens as well. Truly a magically mesmerizing story.