Good Summer Reads for Teens
Wed, 07/05/2017 - 4:38pm
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By:
ANNA GRACE CHANG
Whether you are reading as you relax by the pool or just because Netflix is down, here are a few cool book suggestions for the hot summer days.
For music-lovers (but really everyone):
“The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto” by Mitch Albom
“Everyone joins a band in this life”
Albom’s novel is overflowing with pithy observations such as this one, and he writes the tale of the fictional musician Frankie Presto in unadorned language that everyone can enjoy. Don’t be fooled, however—while Albom’s writing is simple, he tells a deeply meaningful story of how our talents can impact those around us. This book is surprising at every turn of the page as it explores the dynamics of love and revenge, as well as an uplifting tale of forgiveness. “The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto” is my new favorite book, and I hope it will be yours too!
“The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto” by Mitch Albom
“Everyone joins a band in this life”
Albom’s novel is overflowing with pithy observations such as this one, and he writes the tale of the fictional musician Frankie Presto in unadorned language that everyone can enjoy. Don’t be fooled, however—while Albom’s writing is simple, he tells a deeply meaningful story of how our talents can impact those around us. This book is surprising at every turn of the page as it explores the dynamics of love and revenge, as well as an uplifting tale of forgiveness. “The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto” is my new favorite book, and I hope it will be yours too!
Fantasy:
“A Darker Shade of Magic” by V.E. Schwab
“I’d rather die on an adventure than live standing still”
They say that you should never judge a book by its cover, but I had to buy this one just because it’s so pretty. Fortunately, it turned out to be a great read as well! This novel is action-packed from the beginning and will draw you in immediately with its endearing characters. It traces the story of the daring, rebellious Delilah Bard and Kell, a witty outcast, as they travel through four parallel Londons. Even if you think a book about magic is not for you, I urge you to give this one a chance.
“A Darker Shade of Magic” by V.E. Schwab
“I’d rather die on an adventure than live standing still”
They say that you should never judge a book by its cover, but I had to buy this one just because it’s so pretty. Fortunately, it turned out to be a great read as well! This novel is action-packed from the beginning and will draw you in immediately with its endearing characters. It traces the story of the daring, rebellious Delilah Bard and Kell, a witty outcast, as they travel through four parallel Londons. Even if you think a book about magic is not for you, I urge you to give this one a chance.
Realistic fiction:
“Let’s Get Lost” by Adi Alsaid
“Maybe the only way to find what you’re looking for is to get lost along the way.”
Calling all you John Green lovers! While he has yet to write another book, you can find quirky characters and clever jokes similar to those in “The Fault in Our Stars” in this YA novel. Its main character, Leila, is the definition of a strong female lead, and her cross-country journey to see the Northern Lights will inspire and entertain you with its laugh-out-loud humor. “Let’s Get Lost” is a slightly unconventional tale about the way one girl in her bright red car can come bursting into the lives of strangers and change them forever. Alsaid writes that everyone should go on a big road trip in their life, but maybe you can skip the carsickness and read about this one.
“Let’s Get Lost” by Adi Alsaid
“Maybe the only way to find what you’re looking for is to get lost along the way.”
Calling all you John Green lovers! While he has yet to write another book, you can find quirky characters and clever jokes similar to those in “The Fault in Our Stars” in this YA novel. Its main character, Leila, is the definition of a strong female lead, and her cross-country journey to see the Northern Lights will inspire and entertain you with its laugh-out-loud humor. “Let’s Get Lost” is a slightly unconventional tale about the way one girl in her bright red car can come bursting into the lives of strangers and change them forever. Alsaid writes that everyone should go on a big road trip in their life, but maybe you can skip the carsickness and read about this one.
A Lesson in Compassion:
“Out of My Mind” by Sharon Draper
“We all have disabilities. What’s yours?”
Get ready to sob and laugh all in the span of five minutes with this heartwarming story of an 11-year-old with cerebral palsy. Melody Brooks is brilliant and can memorize any information put in front of her, but no one knows it because she is unable to speak. “Out of My Mind” tells how Melody comes into her voice and proves that “a person is so much more than the name of a diagnosis on a chart.” This novel is great for younger readers as well as adults! If you enjoyed “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio, you will love this similarly life-changing book that will make you want to spread the love. (Side note: if there is anyone out there who has not read “Wonder,” it is an absolute must-read, and the movie is coming out this summer!)
Daniel Island resident Anna Grace Chang is a rising senior at Bishop England High School.