So much of YA fiction is focused on romance, and it’s refreshing to read a book about a friendship breakup. Woodfolk expertly explores themes of friendship, forgiveness, and new beginnings. I think these resonate with a lot of teenagers- friendships are tough in high school! It feels realistic that the two main characters aren’t painted as completely good or bad, and it was hard to blame just one of them.

This was a bit of a different read for me. I love nonfiction, but Nandi’s book was a little more scientific than I’m used to. I was curious about gut health, and now I know a lot more! It’s amazing how our guts and brains are connected. I feel educated and inspired to be more intentional about my habits.

Running outside in the snow, in January, in Minnesota was actually pretty fun while listening to this incredibly summery book. The idea of having two realities play out at the same time was not only brilliant and captivating, but also skillfully executed. Everything about this novel works really well.

Burkeman has some valuable and unique takes on time management. I appreciate how he explored comfort, standards, priorities, balance, and much more. Definitely worth a read! The audiobook narration, done by the author, is well done.

After reading Lippincott’s Pride and Prejudice and Pittsburgh last year (see 101 Books), I was sold on her writing. She Gets the Girl did not disappoint! The dual narration is so compelling, and the enemies-to-lovers is so much fun.

The story centering around a teen chef competition TV show is unique. Last year I read Park’s Imposter Syndrome and Other Confessions of Alejandra Kim, which felt more developed and complete. I think that Jackie Oh leaves too many loose ends to overlook.

This YA novel definitely has somethings going for it, like the enticing thriller aspect and unique characters. In the end, I was left with a lot of questions and confusion.

I had read all of Albertalli’s books, except this one. Kate in Waiting went above and beyond my expectations. The writing is brilliant, the characters and relationships are strong, and of course, there’s theater! I can’t wait to see what Albertalli’s next book holds.

I could not set this book down, if I didn’t have to go to school I would have read it in one sitting! The historical and autobiographical elements are fascinating, and beautifully pair with the fictional aspects. The narration is hilarious, and the story holds a lot of strength.

I knew nothing about Britney Spears and other pop artists from that time. Spears tells her story with a lot of strength. It’s definitely a valuable look into the pop and celebrity world, which is not as glamorous as it can seem.

I got to go to Costa Rica with my family! See my homepage for a few photos. It was the best vacation. We did so much hiking, swimming, eating, and laughing. I also experienced how fun (and not as scary as I thought) parasailing is!