In the novel The Breakup Lists by Adib Khorram, the narrative mixes with humor to make a beautiful and funny read to pick up in your free time. Jackson Ghasnavi is a deaf theater tech for his high school and when not working on plays he is creating breakup lists for his sister and himself- lists that contain terrible things about their exes. But then Jackson and his sister share feelings for the same guy, and worse –his lists are released to the school as an act of revenge that makes Jackson once secret judgements public. The writing of the story was simple and beautiful, bringing together a novel that could encourage readers to follow the lives and drama of the characters. The personality of Jackson can be seen in the writing through the scratched out words- a trait that makes the characters more accessible to the reader. The inclusion of discriminated groups doesn’t do much to maintain interest in what can be seen as a predictable romcom. By the middle of the novel, it felt like one could stop reading since the outcome would be foreseen. Even though these parts exist, the less predictable moments in the story make the novel more surprising and enjoyable. Intermediate readers will love this fast read with authentic characters making this novel recommended for anyone.

Reviewed by OHS Student, Quinn P.

This book takes place in a world unlike any others, with complex characters and a plot that tugs at the reader’s heartstrings. Main character, Dirt, must take the place of her sister in a type of fighting competition that she has long retired from, knowing that if she fails, her family will be split apart.

At first I was unsure whether I would be able to read the entire book, because for quite a while there was very little happening. I only began to actually want to pick the book up and read it when I was more than halfway through. Additionally, there are several terms related to the fantasy world that cease to be explained either during the entire book, or for a long time. Because of this, I found a few scenes to be confusing and had to re-read them later.

I do like how surprising the plot of the book is– you can’t tell what is going to happen until it happens. I also appreciate how each character had some kind of growth throughout the story, some subtly and some dramatically. This book was also very quickly-paced at times, making the reader want to continue, whereas there were also many calmer parts of the book that felt like a breath of fresh air. The balance between the two elevated the reading experience for me. Overall, Daughters of Oduma is well-written with interesting and complex characters.

This book falls under the genres of fiction and fantasy, and contains coming-of-age themes. I think anyone who appreciates an action-filled (and slightly gruesome at times) fantasy book that still has its quiet moments will enjoy reading Daughters of Oduma.Daughters of Oduma is a good pick for any fantasy reader.

Reviewed by OHS Student, Rory C.

Robin Wasley’s novel, “Dead Things Are Closer Than They Appear,” was an imaginative masterpiece with such a thoughtful and meaningful plot filled with wonderful characters that is definitely worth every reader’s attention. In her crazy town full of magic, Sid Spencer has always been normal until a guardian of the magic in town is killed, leaving her to join other extraordinary guardians and fight to make things right. The captivating, constantly growing, and interesting plot truly makes the story even more charming than it already is. The imagery present in the novel is also extremely detailed and well-written; every scene felt as though you were with the characters as well.

I really loved how well the characters were written. Every character was human with flaws, regrets, mistakes, etc. They felt real and not superficial. They all had things to add to the story and push events forward in various ways. Every character was important with their unique differences. It was wonderful to read and connect to as it truly resonated with me a lot. I also loved the message of the novel. It is such a beautiful and amazing message that I think everyone should hear and remember. The imagery and details were also astounding and captivated me whenever I read a scene. Overall, the novel felt inspiring and truly meaningful to me.

At first, I will admit, I did not really like the novel at the start (though that definitely changed as it progressed). It was confusing at first and a little boring as I had not really found a reason to care about it specifically. This led it to being a novel that I had a hard time getting into but once I did, it was amazing. Also, a fantasy novel being confusing at first happens all the time so I do not think that is a true negative aspect to the book. Besides that, I think sometimes the pacing up to the point of the reveal of certain important things was a little off. I don’t know if it’s just me but it never really felt that suspenseful or jaw-dropping when it seemed like it should’ve been. This made some reveals be a little less satisfactory for me.

Anyone who enjoys fantasy and emotional roller-coasters in novels should read this book. I think it will satisfy and go beyond each of your standards when it comes to fantasy.

Astrid Skarsgard is leading as normal of a life as a teenager can with Crohn’s disease during her Senior year in Stockholm, when her beloved grandmother, with whom her father forbade communication, goes missing. She finally has leverage to force her father to bring her back to her hometown of Unden, but instead of closure, the homecoming raises more questions than answers: why is no one looking for Amma; and, why is no one mourning. Following clues to reunite with her grandmother, Astrid first meets … or reunites with the feared draugr, Soren, who she accidentally awakens from a centuries-long sleep. Their instant magnetic draw to one another provides a welcome tension for readers as the story follows the improbable couple into Tiveden, a forest dangerously haunted with the aftermath of her family’s blood oath. More questions are raised and secrets discovered and it is up to Astrid to reconcile her beliefs about her family and her attraction to Soren, the monster of her grandmother’s stories. Norse mythology is woven throughout and provides a backdrop for readers to consider ethical questions of good v. evil and contemplate altering values for love. The tense chemistry between Astrid and Soren will keep readers turning pages as they quest for answers. The story is best enjoyed at a surface-level read; while clearly fiction, it is at times inconsistent and many answers are merely stated rather than explained. Fortunately, the plot twists and fraught romance are favorable for a quick read! 

Kill Her Twice by Stacey Lee is a page-turning thriller that will have you guessing until the very end! May, Gemma, and Peony are three sisters in LA’s1920’s Chinatown who discover a famous movie star was murdered! The police arrest the wrong man, so it’s up to the sisters to solve the case. The book gives beautiful arcs to the sisters that both rounds out their characters and adds realism to the novel. Even readers who are not typically interested in mysteries or thrillers will find this book enjoyable because of the characters. The mystery element is lacking throughout as there is little suspense and build-up; however, the character development makes it a worthwhile read. Overall, Kill Her Twice is an enjoyable read that will leave you rooting for the sisters and their journeys! Recommended.

Bless the Blood: A Cancer Memoir, written by Walela Nehanda, is an eye-widening description of battling cancer written in verse. Nehanda captivates the true and ugly reality of their cancer journey while facing issues of racism, relationships, and representation. Each poetic page remained transparent and raw with emotion. Some readers may find that certain shared aspects of the writer’s journey were more descriptive than others, or that it would feel as though the reader is jumping through the timeline.  On the other hand, it may also be interpreted as to-the-point and purposeful for their memoir, as they’ve been deemed significant to share in that manner. Walela Nehanda’s living memoir welcomes the readers with its poetic nature, filled with honest, vulgar, and captivating language that reminds each reader about the fragility of life. Highly recommended.