About Stacy Udo

I am the current teacher-librarian at Olympia High School. I have worked as a teacher-librarian since 2013; prior to that I taught high school English for 11 years.

Sync by: Ellen Hopkins

True to form, Ellen Hopkins latest book pulls readers right in! Sync follows twin siblings, Storm and Lake, as they try to navigate their circumstances of being pulled apart and sent to different foster homes, repeatedly throughout their adolescent years. Although the siblings are physically forced apart their connection cannot be broken, not through time spent in juvenile detention or on the streets. Fortunately for each, they have people to love and care for no matter the circumstances.

Lake is placed with a foster family who is very conservative and expects her to follow suit; however, she has a girlfriend and wants to challenge the ideals consistently pressed upon her within the foster home. Storm is placed with a loving, caring foster father, but ends up in juvenile detention after trying to seek revenge on someone who sexually assaulted his long-time girlfriend.

In the worst of circumstances, the siblings are unable to connect – trying to keep tabs on each other through their caseworkers. Although things seem pretty hopeless for both twins, they continue to persevere.

Students who like to read about difficult topics and trauma will be pulled in by these characters and their circumstances. Ellen Hopkins knows how to tug on a reader’s heartstrings. If you have other books by this author in your collection, you will want to add this as well.

The Queens’ English by: Chloe O. Davis

Reviewed by OHS Student, Cordelia W.

The Queens’ English is super colorful and will be a hit with those researching or wanting to know more about all things LGBTQIA+. The point of The Queens’ English is to inform readers of some of the slang terms used within and about LGBTQIA+ community, as well as definitions for different sexualities and genders.

The colorful pages of this book gives this nonfiction dictionary a fun look, making readers (such as me) interested because each page is different and doesn’t have consistent look to it. It’s a nice complement to the LGBTQIA+ theme of the book. It’s very colorful and uses inclusive and interesting patterns and the same is true for the wording, with it being blunt and referring to other parts of the book and using terms that were earlier in the book. Something I didn’t like is when a term had the same definition as another it would just refer you to a different page such as, 3 different words had the same definition and the book kept referring you to the one at the very end of the book; I would have preferred it to just be defined again.

Those who should read this book are be people doing projects on the topic of the LGBTQIA+ community as well as those wanting to learn more about the community as a whole and its origins.

Nothing Like the Movies by: Lynn Painter

Reviewed by OHS student, Audrey L.

This book is a cute, light contemporary romance that also covers serious topics, such as dealing with the loss of a loved one. The light, fluffy plot makes this romance an easy and enjoyable read.

After something awful happens during freshman year at college, Wes Bennet must give up his dreams, and his girlfriend, to return home to Nebraska. Flash forward 2 years later, Wes is starting fresh at college determined to win the girl of his dreams, Liz Buxbaum, back.

I enjoyed the supporting characters, and how the author added more to the plot than *just* Wes trying to win Liz back. I also liked how Lynn Painter made the story dual-POV, unlike the first book. The book felt too slow in the beginning, and it had a pretty predictable plot. I felt like the breakup was so rash, odd, and out of place. And, while I understand that Liz is a grown adult now, I kind of miss the way she was in the first book, but it does make sense for her character to change and mature. Someone might like reading this book if they enjoy reading romances. It’s also a good sequel for the first book, “Better Than the Movies,” but can be read as a standalone.

Nothing Like the Movies - overall review statement.

Twenty-four Seconds from Now . . . by Jason Reynolds

I have been waiting for a book like this to be written – thank you, Jason Reynolds! Reynolds accurately portrays all the thoughts and feelings of a teenage boy who is planning to lose his virginity to his long-time girlfriend. Not only is this book insightful, its funny, touching, and real. Told in a flash-back style, we get a clear picture for the relationships between main character, Neon and his girlfriend Aria, his parents, and his siblings. All of these relationships play a pivotal role in the way that Neon thinks about sex and his readiness for it.

This sex-positive books addresses many topics including: consent, love, masturbation, pornography. All of these delicate subjects are presented in practical, safe ways that many readers, of any gender will relate to. There are no explicit scenes, nor any vulgar discussions – even though the sex definitely happens in the end.

This book is one all high school libraries should have on their shelves!

Conditions of A Heart by: Bethany Mangle

Reviewed by OHS Substitute, Sandy H.

This coming of age story will connect readers with the difficulties of being a teenager as well as showing how family struggles impact life. Brynn Kwan balances friends, family, and boys on top of struggles to let an unattainable persona go. Meanwhile pain rears its head. In this book, the protagonist (and her father) has chronic pain resulting from a health disorder which is a young adult topic not frequently encountered, for this primary reason I appreciated reading the book.

Diary of A Confused Feminist by Kate Weston

Reviewed by OHS Substitute, Sandy H.

This novel will be a hit with young adult readers who enjoy coming-of-age struggles.

Kat Evans tries to get a date, deal with friends, and manifest self-acceptance, while trying to think of everything through the lens of feminism. Meanwhile she’s also rabidly documenting everything in her diary. This young adult fiction dives deep into the anxieties, dreams, and ideals of a teenager trying to make her way through high school – so believable, the anxiety just oozed off of the pages!

Reading it as an adult, I liked being reminded of how tough it really is to be a teenager.

Diary of A Confused Feminist - book cover. Pink text - outline of lips.

Ever Since by Alena Bruzas

This book was really difficult to read because of the content; it’s very powerful, but will need content warnings if added to a high school collection.

The main character, Virginia, is a victim of sexual assault and abuse – but she is keeping it hidden. Instead, she displays risky behaviors with drinking, drug use, and sex. As the reader, we are not made aware of the extent of the abuse, and the fact that there are multiple abusers, until much later in the book. Instead we follow Virginia’s journey of self-loathing desire to feel love.

As details about Virginia’s story unfold, other victims come forward – all of which are close friends of Virginia’s and all were groomed by the same abuser.

This book should be considered for high school libraries only.

It is set in Washington State and has some local references, which I always appreciate.

Mall Goth by: Kate Leth

Reviewed by OHS Library Secretary Mikel

This colorful and easy-to-read graphic novel will appeal to a young adult reader who enjoys a book set in the early 2000’s and can empathize with an outcast goth girl.

Liz Holme isn’t a good fit at her new high school and is struggling with multiple social issues. Just as she finds some sanctuary in the mall scene, gets a job, and makes a few new gaming friends, a possibly dangerous situation develops with a creepy teacher.

Liz’s realistic experiences will resonate with contemporary teens, especially those who may be negotiating a parental divorce or are dealing with being LGBTQ issues. I like that Liz is a strong character who demonstrates resiliency in the face of many odds; however, it was a bit clunky for me to read – the transitions were not very smooth in the storyline.

Mall Goth: 9781534476943: Leth, Kate, Leth, Kate, Sousa, Diana, Crank,  Robin: Books - Amazon.com

Betting On You by: Lynn Painter

Reviewed by OHS Student, Eliza T.

This book beautifully combines a soft romance with the challenges of having divorced parents.

Bailey and Charlie first meet on a plane when they are both flying to live with their other parent. They meet again when they are older, and their initial hate blossoms into a beautiful romance as they connect through their shared parental experiences.

This book is perfect for those looking to better understand the life of a child of divorce, or those who just want to cozy up for a sweet romance. I loved the banter throughout the book, as Charlie and Bailey learn that the other might not be so bad. Bailey’s mom’s boyfriend has a daughter, and I think there could have been more conflict there, where it felt very understated.

A Suffragist’s Guide to the Antarctic by: Yi Shun Lai

Reviewed by OHS Staff M. Debuse-Losh

This high-adventure novel takes place in the frigid Antarctic in the early 1900’s. It has a gripping storyline but I felt the narrative was somewhat too elementary and I didn’t care for the diary format.

Clara has just come from the front lines of the violent suffragist movement in England, where women were being beaten for their demand that women have the same rights as men. She signs up for an Antarctic expedition just as WWI is starting, and encounters many challenges with the tortuous expedition itself and the all-male crew.

History buffs may enjoy the rendition of the famous Shackleton expedition told from a strong female protagonist’s point of view. Trigger warning: there is an attempted sexual assault in the story.

I enjoyed the extreme adventure depictions, and the descriptions of surviving in the Antarctic. I disliked the diary format spoken in a peculiarly juvenile voice (I imagine even an 18-year-old in 1914 would be a tad more sophisticated).

Retro by Sofia Lapuente & Jarrod Shusterman

Reviewed by OHS Substitute, Megan C.

This is a fast paced thrill-ride where main character Luna competes in a competition to live without technology in exchange for a cash prize that her struggling family needs desperately. As the competition continues the stakes become high when Luna’s classmates begin disappearing. Worried for her safety, Luna must decide to continue with the competition or give up the potential cash prize.

In addition to the fast pace, I appreciated the reference to 80s/90s music. This book also highlights the role of social media in our lives and encourages readers to question it’s value.

This would be a great addition to any high school library.

The Jasmine Project by Meredith Ireland

Reviewed by OHS Substitute, Megan C.

Ireland’s book is a lot of fun – reminding me of the reality show The Bachelor. Main character Jasmine has a cheating boyfriend; after this realization her family goes on a mission to find her a replacement boyfriend while hosting her graduation party.

Not only is this book fun, it includes a lot of valuable voices and representation including mixed race voices and adopted families. In addition to prose, much of the text is written in text messages, which allows for alternating voices to come through. A great example of a YA Rom/Com.

This Is Why They Hate Us by: Aaron H. Aceves

Reviewed by OHS Student, Ffiona P.

This romance will resonate deeply with anyone who is struggling with their mental health, navigating their sexuality, or finding themselves in unrequited love.

Enrique has been in love with his close friend Saleem for quite some time now. With the help of his best friend Fabiola, and a number of potential romantic conquests, he plans to work through his crush. With each new encounter he learns more about himself, and about living as a bisexual person than he ever thought he would. Through all of this he is struggling with his mental health, attempting to come out to his parents, and inform Fabiola about his past mental breakdown. With unexpected support from various sources he is able to end his summer in a way that leaves him satisfied, though not in the ways he would have guessed.

I loved how relatable it is, Aaron H. Aceves was able efficiently explain thoughts and feelings that the character was having, in a way that was very satisfying. For lack of a better word. I loved how the author was able to trick me, and I’m guessing everyone else who read the book. I thought I knew exactly where the book was going to end up, then he convinced me I was wrong, then I ended up being right again at the last minute when I thought all hope was lost. This book was an emotional roller coaster that had me squealing, kicking my feet. Then would make my chest heavy the next minute with how deeply I felt for the MC and his situation while he was battling his mental health. THIS BOOK LEFT ME SATISFIED! I feel like whenever an author wants the book to make an impact, or to make a heavy statement about life, they feel the need to leave it on a plain note. Not even necessarily a bad one. But many authors write these types of books with the hope of the reader being satisfied with the MC being content. Which is the whole point I’m sure. But this book made me celebrate the happy ending as if it was me experiencing it. I kind of went into it with the mindset of “this seems like the kind of book where the happy ending is a given, and everything will turn out okay.” But the author was able to write the story in a way that made me feel RELIEVED almost when the happy ending came. Relief and genuine joy. He was able to capture that same feeling of when something good happens in real life. Because nobody in real life is thinking “it will all work out great for me, I will find the love of my life, and be happy.” He was able to capture that “Oh my god, how lucky am I to have this wonderful person in my life” mindset. I really appreciated that.

Gleanings by Neal Shusterman

Reviewed by OHS Student, Eric Z.

Fans of the original Scythe trilogy will recognize the characters in these short stories and will surely enjoy this book.

From the last piece of mortal-age art to space-faring AIs, Gleanings explores life and death through the lens of background characters in the Scythe universe.

The fully fleshed out anti-dystopian world allows the reader to easily relate events and stories from Gleanings to the main plot in the Scythe trilogy. The careful juxtapositions of humor with death make this a captivating read.

Barely Missing Everything by Matt Mendez

Reviewed by OHS Student Wiley P.

In this book, three Mexican main characters Juan, JD, and Fabi are all trying to figure out what to do with the problems life throws at them, especially in a world where having brown skin can make things extra difficult. The fast paced and intriguing writing keeps in going and the characters learning. This novel is constantly engaging and makes you keep reading.

Themes of racism and poverty within the southern United States.

A definite purchase for all libraries.

Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn

Reviewed by OHS Student Adelaide E.

Book 2 in the Legendborn Series

Interweaving Arthurian legend with the harsh realities of slavery and its modern affects, Bloodmarked will be a compelling and educational read for people of all ages, but primarily the YA audience, as it has a young female lead on the path of discovering more about her heritage and newfound powers.

Soon after the events of the previous book Legendborn, Bree Matthews is learning to control her powers as a medium and the Scion of Arthur in order to rescue fellow scion Nicholas, a quest on which her right to rule is questioned by the Order of the Round Table, and her relationship with the Kingsmage Selwyn Kane develops.

I liked that it had a strong female protagonist whose struggles included people challenging her right to rule and discovering the implications of her new status as a medium, which includes obtaining the powers, skills, and qualities of her ancestors, such as Arthur.

Personally, I didn’t feel that there was much development with her relationship with Sel or Nick. Nothing substantial happened because Nick was kidnapped throughout the entirety of the book, leaving Sel to remain his Kingsmage. There was some discussion about whether Sel would be able to be Kingsmage to the both of them, but this was an unresolved point in Bloodmarked.

A Consuming Fire by Laura E. Weymouth

Reviewed by OHS Substitute

Readers who enjoy Fantasy Adventure will love this book! The characters are very intriguing, especially since one is even an all-consuming evil God.

“Love requires nothing by gives everything.” Anya, the main character, sets off to kill the unappealing, all-consuming evil God after the demise of her twin sister Ilya. On her quest she finds a love and strength that she has never before known, making her feel invincible. Anya embodies a powerful force that aids her in conquering evil raised against her.

The characterization is the books strong suit; characters are very well developed with strength, forgiveness, mercy, and perseverance.

The only downside was that at times the dialogue was difficult to follow.

Everyone Hates Kelsie Miller by: Meredith Ireland

Reviewed by OHS Substitute

This novel is definitely light reading with lots of fluff: romantic inclinations, rules of friendship, and the pressures to be perfect. Two rivals, Eric and Kelsie, find themselves on a roadtrip to U Penn to visit their exes who have recently ghosted them. Along the way, these high school seniors reveal haunting memories and insecurities to one another that leads them to an unexpected friendship.

The book attempts to warn teens of the pressures of growing up and accepting yourself and others. The author touches on relevant issues for a high school audience: prejudice, friendship demands, perfectionism, fear of failure, underage drinking, and risky sexual behaviors. Although these themes and topics are in the book they are mentioned superficially and without depth, making characters seem pretty shallow as well.

How to Survive Your Murder by Danielle Valentine

Reviewed by OHS Library Secretary, Mikel D.L.

For readers who equate “corn maze” with dread, this is your book.  This perfect Halloween season story is narrated by Claire, a teenager who is about to testify in her sister’s murder trial. She’s a horror movie fanatic, but a total scaredy-cat of anything that moves in real life. The plot twists in cryptic ways and I certainly couldn’t have predicted the conclusion. It’s a real nail-biter and readers will have a hard time putting it down …to go to sleep (!?).

The Edge of Being by James Brandon

Reviewed by OHS Library Secretary, Mikel D.L.

I read this book in record time. The author has a highly emotional, gripping writing style that made it hard to put down. There’s lots of internal struggle that Isaac is processing, having never had a dad in his life. He has always felt like half of himself is missing. The quest for his father and his slow breakup with his boyfriend have him on the edge of a breakdown, but surprising events (no spoiler!) change that trajectory. This book will appeal to readers who enjoy realistic fiction and stories about mental health. 

The Lost Dreamer by Lizz Huerta

Does the intrigue into the lives of kings and religious temple life from distant tropical islands interest you?  How about gifted women who possess spiritual powers, enabling them to gain knowledge and secrets of the unseen world make for an interesting read?  Lizz Huertauses flowery, descriptive words to bring you into the hearts and minds of her characters as they interact with Indir, the Dreamer, the seer.

Royalty passes the throne of power from the father to the son and song with this succession, comes change.  Immediately, the new king tells his audience of the old traditions that, “I am here to usher in a new age.”  The tradition of Dreamers is now threatened.  What does Alcan, the new king want?  Power.  He believes power means having control over others. 

But Alcan is also an angry person.  Indir escapes from Alcan’s threats.  Not until three quarters into our story is Indir told the source of this anger, the secret brother of Alcan.  Even kings are not spared from the consequences of unfaithfulness in a family.  You’ll just need to read for yourselves how Indir’s lost Dreamer is found.

Reviewed By: OHS Substitute

Generation Wonder: The New Age of Heroes by Bary Lyga

Attention all superhero fans! Award winner, writer of a New York Times Bestseller edits this story of heroes and superheroes in an anthology format with popular and diverse YA writers. If you want to fly, figuratively, this is the book to read. When is the last time you deliberately made mistakes or performed poorly to avoid the suspicion that would inevitably follow a perfect performance.  It’s here in the book for you!  Compelling graphics begin each new chapter.  If you are looking for an exciting “can’t put it down” book, this one’s for you.

Reviewed by: OHS Substitute, James D.

The Counselors by Jessica Goodman

The author, Jessica Goodman, is a New York Times best selling writer – and like her other titles, this book does not disappoint. 

Have you ever been sent to summer camp for 8 weeks?  Our main character, Goldie, in this book has, but for the first time she returns to camp as a counselor.  You will learn the secrets that haunt Camp Alpine Lake, previously a very safe place. She has had a very hard year and her reputation has followed her to camp.  The real mystery and thrill ride begins when Goldie’s ex, who broker her heart, turns up dead in the lake. Put yourself in her shoes and try to get used to being hated by some, loved by others. An exciting read.

Reviewed by OHS Substitute, James D.

Bloodmarked by Tracy Deonn

Reviewed by OHS Senior, Adelaide E.

Interweaving Arthurian legend with the harsh realities of slavery and its modern affects, Bloodmarked will be a compelling and educational read for people of all ages, but primarily the YA audience, as it has a young female lead on the path of discovering more about her heritage and newfound powers. This retelling of Arthurian legend will engage readers who enjoy books with themes involving confronting racial prejudice and discovering oneself and abilities.

Soon after the events of the previous book Legendborn, Bree Matthews is learning to control her powers as a medium and the Scion of Arthur in order to rescue fellow scion Nicholas, a quest on which her right to rule is questioned by the Order of the Round Table, and her relationship with the Kingsmage Selwyn Kane develops.

I liked that it had a strong female protagonist whose struggles included people challenging her right to rule and discovering the implications of her new status as a medium, which includes obtaining the powers, skills, and qualities of her ancestors, such as Arthur.

Personally, I didn’t feel that there was much development with her relationship with Sel or Nick. Nothing substantial happened because Nick was kidnapped throughout the entirety of the book, leaving Sel to remain his Kingsmage. There was some discussion about whether Sel would be able to be Kingsmage to the both of them, but this was an unresolved point in Bloodmarked.

Bad Things Happen Here by Rebecca Barrow

Readers who like Karen McManus will love this new book by Rebecca Barrow. Set on an old-money island, Luca and her peers believe the place to be cursed. Too many of Parris Island’s young girls have gone missing and turned up dead; including Luca’s best friend and sister. As Luca pursues the clues surrounding the disappearance of the girls, she quickly becomes surrounded by her own dangers. This is a thrill ride from the start; lots of clues to be had in this fast paced mystery. Just when we think things are working themselves out; there’s always more to uncover. Highly Recommend.

Bad Things Happen Here | Book by Rebecca Barrow | Official Publisher Page |  Simon & Schuster