Ivy's Reviews

In 10 blocks, very different kids find themselves connected in strange and interesting ways. Dogs are avoided, comedy is tested, lists are made, and new love blossoms. Jason Reynolds’s way with words is enviable. Each kid is real and raw, dealing with issues most adults assume children can’t possibly have a grasp of. I took my time and savored every moment with this slim novel. Trust me, you will, too. - Ivy

As a teenager, historical fiction got me through some rough times. The Fountains of Silence would have been a panacea to my soul. Ana and Daniel come from very different worlds and Daniel’s lack of cultural understanding puts them both at risk. This story is lush and beautiful but exposes the sharp edges of a part of history. By shedding light on the history of fascism in Spain, Sepetys offers a harsh warning to modern readers. - Ivy

There’s nothing quite like summer and the unexpected gifts exploration brings. When three cousins approach a dilapidated house, a face appears at the window and they run from the “ghost”. After spilling the beans to their grandmother, she makes them apologize to the kind old man living there and thus begins a beautiful intergenerational friendship. This excellent story uses the comic book form to draw you in. I won’t soon forget that kindness and friendship can be found in surprising places. - Ivy

In 1963, the Children’s March brought urgency to the Civil Rights Movement and the March on Washington planted Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr’s dream in the world’s heads and hearts. Thirteen-year old Sharon, daughter of baseball legend and activist Jackie Robinson, yearned to do her part, but felt small in a large movement. Robinson offers an amazing front row seat to some of the greatest moments in history. Her memoir is an excellent and necessary reminder for this uncertain age. - Ivy

We have to talk about the F word. No, not that one: “fat”. Media and even our beloved books send a clear message: fat people are not welcome. Their lack of representation in the aforementioned mediums is hurtful and causes many people to doubt their own worth. This lovely collection of essays by some of the most celebrated YA authors wants to remind you this invisibility is bullsh*t. The road to self love is long, but this book helps immensely. - Ivy

The world is not black and white, so why do we approach gender as a binary? In Me, Myself, They, Joshua Ferguson breaks down on historical, scientific, and societal bases why a two-gender outlook ignores reality. The world is filled with so many colors and the idea that we all fit into one of two boxes is preposterous. This unflinchingly honest memoir made me rethink everything I know about gender and I can’t wait to give it to everyone I know. - Ivy

This beautiful collection of essays covers a wide array of topics, from feminism to infertility to aging parents. Pine writes in a way that resonates in your soul and is completely devoid of bullshit. I was honored by her honesty and found her words a salve on my soul for all the nonsense I’ve gone through the last couple years. - Ivy

Claire North is as fascinating a subject as her novels. She has three different noms de plume. All of her novels are strange and wonderful, so I can’t wait to get my hands on this one. High-stakes games where the consequences are real? Heck yes! This was originally published as three novellas and it’ll be exciting to see it in its final form. - Ivy

Everyone knows the gruesome legacy of Jack the Ripper. We know five women were murdered, some even know their names, but few know anything about them beyond their end. Rubenhold shows us their beginnings with compassion, putting human faces on inhuman crimes. It was a perfect read for my macabre sensibilities and taught me lots of new information about these ugly crimes. - Ivy

When Vanessa Williams won Miss America, it opened a door in protagonist Vanessa Martin’s heart. Until then, she didn’t believe a girl like her—a dark-skinned girl—could win a beauty contest. Suddenly, Vanessa is competing in a school pageant and her Miss America dreams feel that much closer. Raw and full of heart, this book will have you rooting for Vanessa to go all the way to the crown. - Ivy