Back to school means finding new books perfect for reading assignments! Here are some of our highly anticipated young reads for back to school!
Through Our Teeth by Pamela N. Harris
Quill Tree Books, $19.99, 368 pages
Pamela N. Harris delivers a gripping, layered mystery in this powerful new YA novel. When Hope Jackson is found dead, everyone assumes it’s suicide—but her best friend Liv isn’t convinced. With the help of Hope’s friends Kizzie and Sherie, Liv sets out to prove Hope’s jealous boyfriend Brendan is to blame. But as secrets unravel, it becomes clear that Brendan isn’t the only one with a motive. Suspenseful, thought-provoking, and emotionally rich, this story explores grief, loyalty, and the lies we tell to protect ourselves. Perfect for fans of Karen M. McManus and Tiffany D. Jackson, it’s impossible to put down.
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The Rebel Girls of Rome by Jordyn Taylor
HarperCollins, $19.99, 320 pages
This moving, beautifully crafted novel bridges past and present with a story of love, courage, and survival. In the present, grieving college student Lilah travels to Rome after a mysterious letter leads her to uncover her grandfather’s hidden Holocaust history. With the help of Tommaso, whose support soon turns into something deeper, she begins to piece together painful family truths. In 1943, Bruna escapes deportation in Nazi-occupied Rome and joins the resistance, where fighting back and embracing her love for her childhood crush becomes her bravest act. Lyrical and unforgettable, this novel will captivate fans of historical and contemporary fiction alike.
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You’ve Found Oliver by Dustin Thao
Dutton Books for Young Readers, $19.99, 288 pages
Dustin Thao delivers another heart-wrenching, beautifully written romance in this stunning companion to You’ve Reached Sam. A year after losing his best friend Sam, Oliver can’t stop texting his old number—until someone answers. Ben, a college student who’s unknowingly received Oliver’s messages, becomes more than a stranger as their connection deepens. Set against the emotional backdrop of grief and healing, their story unfolds with tenderness and quiet magic. Thao masterfully explores love, loss, and fate in a tale that’s equal parts devastating and hopeful. A must-read for fans of emotional, character-driven romances that linger long after the final page.
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For The Rest of Us by Dahlia Adler and more
Quill Tree Books, $19.99, 304 pages
For The Rest of Us is a radiant, feel-good anthology that celebrates the rich tapestry of holidays observed across cultures, communities, and identities. Curated by the brilliant Dahlia Adler and featuring 14 acclaimed authors, including Sonora Reyes, Abdi Nazemian, and Kosoko Jackson, this collection offers heartfelt, joyful, and deeply personal stories that honor everything from Lunar New Year to Juneteenth. Each tale is a vibrant reminder that celebration takes many forms, and every tradition holds its own unique meaning. Uplifting, inclusive, and beautifully written, this is a must-read for anyone who cherishes the magic of holidays and the diverse ways we come together to honor them.
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Fake Skating by Lynn Painter
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, $21.99, 448 pages
Fake Skating is a heartwarming and emotionally layered YA romance about second chances and rediscovering lost connections. When Dani returns to Minnesota after years away, she’s shocked to find her sweet childhood best friend Alec has become a local hockey star—and a total stranger. Hurt by his silence over the years, she’s ready to keep her distance—until a twist of fate forces them to fake a relationship. As they reconnect, sparks fly, secrets unravel, and feelings get real. With a perfect blend of humor, heart, and nostalgia, Fake Skating is a compelling story of love, growth, and icy chemistry.
