Books Like...

'Holding Up the Universe' by Jennifer Niven is a young adult novel that follows the story of two teenagers, Libby Strout and Jack Masselin, who come from different backgrounds but find common ground in their struggles with insecurities. Libby, once known as America's Fattest Teen, is trying to start afresh in high school after losing weight and dealing with the grief of losing her mother. Jack, a popular jock, hides a secret condition called prosopagnosia, making it difficult for him to recognize faces. When they meet under unusual circumstances, they form an unlikely friendship that helps them navigate through their personal challenges and high school life.

The book is narrated through alternating perspectives of Libby and Jack, offering a moving and poignant portrayal of their individual journeys towards self-acceptance and personal growth. As they bond over shared experiences of feeling different, they learn to lean on each other for support and understanding, emphasizing the importance of unity in the face of diversity. With themes of courage, friendship, and self-worth, 'Holding Up the Universe' delivers a heartfelt message of embracing one's uniqueness and finding strength in vulnerability.

'The Rest of Us Just Live Here' by Patrick Ness is a unique take on the YA fantasy genre, focusing on the lives of ordinary teenagers while the chosen ones battle supernatural forces in the background. The story follows the protagonist, Mikey, who deals with OCD, his family dynamics, and the challenges of growing up, all set against the backdrop of strange events happening in their town involving mythical creatures. The writing style is described as clever, self-aware, and diverse in character types, providing a realistic portrayal of teenagers facing real-life issues amidst paranormal occurrences.

Boy Erased by Garrard Conley is a memoir detailing the author's harrowing experience growing up in a religiously conservative household in the South and being sent to a conversion therapy camp to "pray away the gay." Conley explores the damaging effects of the pray away the gay mentality and reflects on his struggles with his sexuality in relation to his faith, all while dealing with the rejection from his family and community. The book is described as beautifully written, revealing, and honest in its portrayal of Conley's journey towards self-acceptance amidst the damaging effects of conversion therapy.

Tucker Shaw's novel 'When You Call My Name' tells the story of two young men living during the turn of the decade from the 80s into the 90s in New York. The book delves into the emotions running high within the LGBT community and outside of it, amidst the rise of the AIDS pandemic. The characters of Ben and Adam form an unusual friendship that is tested by the changing world around them. The writing style of the book is described as incredibly beautiful and engaging, with a mix of present tense and historical flashbacks keeping the readers on their toes.

'I Have Lost My Way' by Gayle Forman is a YA novel that follows the lives of three young strangers who meet under unusual circumstances in New York City. Freya, an aspiring pop star who has lost her voice, Harun, a young Muslim man struggling with his sexuality, and Nathaniel, who is dealing with the loss of his father, form a deep friendship over the course of a day. Through their interactions, the characters confront their individual struggles, find support in each other, and learn the importance of compassion and friendship.

The book is praised for its engaging plot that unfolds over a single day, exploring themes of loss, friendship, and personal growth. Gayle Forman's writing style immerses readers in the characters' emotional journeys, creating a compelling narrative that touches on the universal experiences of loneliness, acceptance, and finding one's way in life.

'Everything Begins and Ends at the Kentucky Club' by Benjamin Alire Saenz is a collection of short stories set in and around El Paso, Texas and Juarez, Mexico, with the Kentucky Club serving as a central touchstone in each story. The book explores themes of love, relationships, family dynamics, violence, and the human condition through a diverse range of characters, including young and old, straight and gay, rich and poor, Mexican and American. Saenz's writing style is described as emotionally rich, captivating from the very first sentence, and haunting, with each story leaving a lasting impact on the reader.

Snotgirl is a vibrant comic that follows Lottie, a fashion blogger navigating her chaotic life filled with social media drama and unexpected mysteries. The plot weaves together elements of humor, anxiety, and a touch of the bizarre, as Lottie grapples with her identity beneath the glamorous surface. Readers are drawn into her world which feels both contemporary and refreshingly unique, with cliffhangers that keep them eager for more. Each volume explores themes of self-obsession and the challenges of living in the digital age, making it relatable to many.

The artwork in Snotgirl is just as noteworthy as its storyline. The colorful, anime-inspired illustrations complement the engaging writing style, contributing to the comic's charm and appeal. Characters are well-defined, adding depth to the narrative filled with satirical takes on influencer culture. While some may find Lottie's vanity off-putting, it serves to enrich the story rather than detract from it. The overall tone is humorous yet serious, resonating with readers familiar with the struggles of social media life.

"The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros is a historical fantasy thriller set in late 19th century Chicago during the 1893 World's Fair. The story follows Alter Rosen, a Jewish immigrant, as he investigates the mysterious disappearances of young boys in the neighborhood, leading to a thrilling chase through the city's seamy underbelly and a quest for truth and love. The book is praised for its well-researched historical setting, vivid characters, and the seamless incorporation of Jewish folklore into the narrative.

In "More Than This" by Patrick Ness, the story follows Seth, who wakes up naked and alone in his childhood home after drowning. Confused and disoriented, Seth navigates a desolate world filled with mysteries and uncertainties. As he grapples with the meaning of life, the boundaries between reality and perception blur, leading him on a journey of self-discovery and survival. The plot twists and turns, keeping readers on edge and questioning the essence of existence, while the writing style captivates with its depth and emotional resonance.

The Lady's Guide to Petticoats and Piracy follows the adventures of Felicity Montague, a determined young woman who aspires to become a doctor in a world that denies women such opportunities. Alongside her friends Sim and Johanna, Felicity embarks on a journey filled with pirates, dragons, and challenges that test her beliefs and abilities. The book explores themes of feminism, misogyny, imperialism, asexuality, and the complexities of female friendships, all while maintaining a balance between historical fiction and fantastical elements. The writing style is a blend of humor, adventure, and strong character development, with a focus on addressing important societal issues with grace and compassion.