Stack of Books | Photo by Kayli Thompson | The Wright State Guardian
Winter break is fast approaching and one of the best ways to spend the chilly season is to curl up with a good book. Here are some of the best books to get you through both the holidays and blizzards alike.
“Red, White, and Royal Blue” By Casey McQuiston
A charming and funny story of enemies turned lovers, complicated by espionage, international relations and generational disputes, “Red, White, and Royal Blue” proposes the question of what happens if America’s First Son falls in love with the Prince of Wales.
As both men figure out who they are as individuals and as a pair they must also combat societal expectations and American politics. This book leaves the reader always wondering what will happen next with a hefty dose of suspense and drama amongst the sarcastic banter between the two main characters.
“What If It’s Us” By Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera
A fresh take on the “meet cute”, “What If It’s Us” features two young men in their journey to discover themselves in New York City. Fate is both dragging them together and pulling them apart so the reader is left in a constant state of wondering will they or won’t they end up together. With the perfect balance of humor and suspense this book is fast paced and will have you racing to the end.
“The Hate You Give” By Angie Thomas
This story provides relevant commentary on social issues in an easily digestible format. “The Hate You Give” is tragic and heartbreaking as it shines a light on stories that unfortunately happen every day. It shows the world teens and young adults are entering into in an unapologetic view and gives a call to action for change.
“Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series” By Rick Riordan
An older series but one that stands the test of time. Both super easy to read and heavily educational, the “Percy Jackson” series offers readers an escape to a world filled with daring heroes, maniacal villains and one crazy adventure after another. Packed to the brim with Greek and Roman mythological beings, “Percy Jackson” revives these old tales for a new generation.
“The Flip Side” By James Bailey
This debut novel has all the makings of a good romantic comedy: quirky sidekicks, nosey neighbors, a wild yet caring family and a protagonist as lost and confused as most young adults are.
The main character is relatable as the reader finds him in the midst of a “quarter life crisis” as one plan after another has gone wrong, something most of us can relate to after 2020. But this tale provides hope that our luck is just about to turn around, and all it takes is having faith in the possibility of what could happen next.
“Knives Out” By Andrew Pham
The screenplay of the 2019 film starring Chris Evans is as delightfully suspenseful as the film itself. Weather it’s your first visit to Thrombey Manor or you’re revisiting, there’s always more clues to be found in this thrilling murder mystery tale.
“Spoiler Alert” By Olivia Dade
The perfect piece for the nerd inside all of us. Fans of any series will relate to the main character in her attempts to fit into the fandom she loves. In a touching story about being comfortable in your skin, both the main characters grapple with who they are capable of being if they disregard what society says they have to be. Everyone can relate to the plight of these characters and it is a sobering reminder that at the end of the day we should all be allowed to pursue the things we love unapologetically.
“Mistletoe & Mr. Right” By Sarah Morgenthaler
This adorable holiday tale seems to be waiting for Hallmark to make it into a movie. Featuring a successful business woman, a small wintery town, an impossible task and a charming love interest, this book is perfect for anyone looking for a touch of romance this holiday season.
“Cinderella is Dead” By Kaylnn Bayron
Cinderella is one of my favorite princesses and this story brings her to life in a whole new and exciting way. Taking a hard look at gender expectations and pondering if we know the full story of Cinderella, “Cinderella is Dead” is an inspiring work that encourages the reader to step outside of what is expected of them and fight for their happily ever after.
“The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea” By Maggie Tokuda-Hall
In a world not too different from ours, the effects of colonialism and the aristocracy are felt everywhere. In an effort to live the lives they want, the main characters rely on swashbuckling adventures, espionage and a healthy bit of magic to change not only their fate but the world they live in.
This story brings forth all the elements of classic fairy tales and showcases them in a new and modern way. Perfect for both fantasy lovers and those looking to branch into something, “The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea” is the perfect adventure story for everyone.
