2025 Teen Book Reviews

Reviewed by Alexander J. 8th Grade

In my opinion, Gone With the Wind was a literary masterpiece. Gone With the Wind was written by Margret Mitchell in 1936. The story takes place mainly in  “Tara”,, a small plantation 30 miles south of Atlanta city, Georgia. The time period is during the Civil War and Reconstruction era (1860s-70s). The main character is Scarlett O'Hara. Throughout the story Scarlett has several love affairs and must survive through the political and physical turmoil that was caused by the Civil War.

I loved this book so much because of its foreign style. Rather than talking down about the South, it mourns the loss of a beautiful culture so violently demolished by man's instinct of war. I think any person that is looking for a good novel on historical fiction that is accurate to how the world was in the time period would think Gone With the Wind is a wonderful book.

Reviewed by Alexander J. 8th Grade

1984 Is probably the most accurate representation of what a dystopian society would look like. The book was written by George Orwell in 1949, The book is in 3rd person. The book focuses on Winston Smith. Winston is an older man who lives in London, Britain (known as Air Strip 1); the current year is believed to be 1984. The main plot of 1984 is Winston meeting a woman, and the two going against the “party†that has control of all of Oceania, the super state that Winston lives in.

I enjoyed reading the book so much because of the confusion and hysteria the people are in. All the people are under the rule of the party, Ingsoc, and must obey the strict totalitarian and socialist rule. I also liked how every time I thought I had a grasp on what was going on, I would be thrust into confusion, just as Winston was. I would say anyone that enjoys politics or dystopian novels would like reading 1984. I would also say if you enjoy reading 1984, it would be good to check out his other books, like Animal Farm, which also has a beautiful interpretation of the dangers of totalitarianism.

Reviewed by Alexander J. 8th Grade

Where the Red Fern Grows was a masterpiece of a book, there is no way to deny it. The book was written by Wilson Rawls in 1961, in 3rd person. It is an autobiographical fiction, about Rawls when he was 10 years old. The book takes place in Scraper, Oklahoma in the 1920's. The main character is Billy Colman. Billy has a strong desire to have two hound dogs to go hunting for racoons with.

I think this book was incredible because it represents the true connection between man and dog. Another thing I liked was that all throughout the story Billy is faced with many horrors, which are heart wrenching to the reader. These horrors only to be swiftly replaced with a joyous reunion or an amazing gift. Overall, I would say, Where the Red Fern Grows is an amazing book that should be read by everyone, young or old.

Reviewed by Alexander J. 8th Grade

The Prisoner of Cell 25 was a wonderful book on a boy with super powers. The Prisoner of Cell 25 was written by Richard Paul Evans in 2011. The book takes place in Idaho and California. The year is 2010. It is a science fiction novel part of a larger series of 10 books. The book mainly focuses on Michael Vey and his friends Ostin Liss and Tayler Ridley, all of whom are 14, Michael has tourettes and a special electric ability. Both Vey and Ridley were born in Pasadena California on April 16, 1996. The main story of the book focuses on Michaels search to find his mother after she is kidnapped. The story is written in 1st person.

I enjoyed this book because of the sarcasm that Michael displays. Like how in the beginning he asks for people not to ask "What state Idaho was in". There were still some parts of the book that I didn't enjoy though. I found that it was a bit fast and inaccurate to how people would act in certain situations. However, I enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to anyone that enjoys Science fiction.

Reviewed by Alexander J 8th Grade

The Good Earth was an incredible representation of the hardships that was China in the reign of the last emperor. The book was written in 1931 by Pearl S, Buck in 3rd person. The book takes place in a small Chinese village in the 1920s. The book's protagonist is Wang Lung, a young rice farmer. Wang Lung goes about the story constantly becoming wealthy and then poor, in an endless cycle.

I loved this book due to its relationship with the reign of the last emperor of China. The book has a wonderful representation of the cycle of failure and success. My favorite part of the book was in the end, when Wang Lung is an elderly man and his sons deceive him into thinking his land will still be used for farming. I liked this part because it was a change in how wealth was displayed in the family.

Reviewed by Kelsey B. 11th Grade

The book Lightlark is a fast paced, intense, adventurous fantasy novel. It has aspects of large scale competition, enemies to loves, and widespread betrayal. The story contains six kingdoms all under the same fate of significant curses specific to each kingdom. The only way to break these curses is a series of trials each ruler has to face while working alongside and against one another in a fight to the death. Only one ruler will come out on top, and the fate of another will cease to exist. Tensions start to rise when new relationships are formed and a traitor is working in the backroud on their own agenda that will impact the whole world. Alex Aster did a fantastic job at bringing to life her characters, the Island of Lightlark, and the magic within through amazing imagery. The mystery and danger keeps readers engaged and not wanting to put the book down!

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

Ghost is about a boy named Castle “Ghost†Cranshaw, who has always been fast—running from his past and his problems. When he stumbles upon a track team, he realizes running could be more than just an escape. Coach sees his potential, but Ghost struggles with his anger and impulsiveness. The book has a lot of heart, and Ghost is a relatable character. It's a quick read with a great message about second chances and finding where you belong. If you like sports, underdog stories, and a little humor, this book is worth it.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

Told in verse, The Crossover is about twin brothers, Josh and Jordan Bell, who are basketball stars. They’ve always been close, but as they grow up, things change. Josh struggles with family, love, and rivalry, especially when his brother starts focusing more on a girl than basketball. The writing is fast and energetic, just like a game. Even if you’re not into poetry, the way Alexander tells the story makes it exciting. It’s about basketball, but also about family, growing up, and dealing with loss. A great book for anyone who loves sports and emotional stories.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This is a true story about high school football in Odessa, Texas, where the whole town revolves around the sport. The players deal with intense pressure, racism, and personal struggles as they chase a state championship. It's not just about football; it's about the culture surrounding it and how it affects people's lives. The writing makes you feel like you're right there in the stands. If you like real-life stories about sports, teamwork, and the ups and downs of chasing a dream, this is a great read.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School 

Lonnie Jackson is a talented basketball player with dreams of making it big. His coach, a former player with a troubled past, pushes him hard. But Lonnie has to deal with pressures off the court too, like street violence and people who want to take advantage of his talent. The book is raw and real, showing how tough it can be to succeed when the odds are against you. Myers captures the struggle of young athletes in a way that feels true to life. If you like basketball and stories about overcoming challenges, you'll like this one.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

Michael Arroyo is a 12-year-old baseball phenom, but there's a problem- he doesn't have the right paperwork to prove his age. Without parents around, he and his brother are hiding the truth while he fights to keep playing. The book mixes sports action with real-life problems, making it exciting and emotional. Lupica does a great job capturing the game and the struggles of a kid trying to keep his dreams alive. If you like baseball and fast-paced stories, heat is a great pick.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

Jake Cullen is the younger brother of a famous quarterback, and now it's his turn to shine. But living in his brother's shadow isn't easy, especially in Texas, where high school football is everything. Jake has to prove himself on the field while dealing with family expectations and team drama. The book has great football action and a relatable main character. If you like sports books with competition, pressure, and personal growth, this is a good one to check out.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

Ryan Dean West is a 14-year-old rugby player at a boarding school. He's younger than most of his teammates and has to deal with bullies, crushes, and making mistakes. The book is funny, awkward, and sometimes heartbreaking. The mix of humor and serious moments makes it feel real. It also has cool illustrations that help tell the story. If you like books that mix sports, humor, and drama, Winger is a great choice.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

Jessica is a track star until a car accident changes everything, she loses part of her leg and doesn't know if she'l ever run again. The story follows her journey through recovery, frustration, and hope as she learns to see life in a new way. It's an emotional but uplifting book about resilience and not giving up. Even if you're not a runner, you'll connect with Jessica's struggles and growth. If you like inspiring stories about overcoming obstacles, this one is perfect.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

Savvy is a talented basketball player, but at 6'2", she struggles with fitting in and being taken seriously. When she makes an elite team, she faces competition, jealousy, and a big scandal that could ruin everything. The book does a great job showing the pressure athletes face, especially girls in sports. The basketball action is exciting, and the mystery keeps you hooked. If you like stories about sports, teamwork, and big decisions, you should read boost!

Reviewed by Glory A. 8th Grade

Lion Down by Stuart Gibbs is the fifth book in the FunJungle series. In this book, Teddy Fitzroy, the young detective who has solved many cases in Funjungle before, is faced with two cases at once. First, a mountain lion is accused of killing King, a dog who belongs to Lincoln Stone, a rich and famous influencer. Lincoln is determined to have the lion killed and sets a $100,000 bounty on the lion’s head. However, Teddy and many other people suspect that the lion was framed. So, Teddy and his girlfriend, Summer, set out to uncover the truth. Meanwhile, someone has been poisoning the giraffes at FunJungle, making Teddy have to deal with both of the cases. The story is filled with suspense and humor, making the reader begging for more.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This book follows Miles, a quiet boy who goes to a new school and meets Alaska, a mysterious and unpredictable girl. He quickly falls for her, but she is hard to understand. The book is about love, loss, and figuring out life. The story is written in a way that makes you feel like you are part of the group. It is emotional and sometimes funny, but it also makes you think about choices and consequences. The book is not too long, and the characters feel real. The ending is sad but meaningful.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This book is about a girl named Cadence who spends summers with her rich family on a private island. After a mysterious accident, she cannot remember what happened, and no one will tell her the truth. As she pieces things together, the story gets more intense. The book is written in a unique way, with short chapters and poetic language. It is mysterious and emotional, and the ending is shocking. It is not a long book, but it keeps you thinking even after you finish it.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This book is about Ed, a normal guy who accidentally stops a crime and then starts getting mysterious playing cards in the mail. Each card has a message leading him to help different people. As he completes the tasks, he learns more about himself and his purpose. The book is exciting and keeps you guessing about who is sending the cards. It is a mix of mystery, adventure, and self-discovery. The writing style is different but makes the story feel real. It is a great book for people who like unexpected twists.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This book follows Clay, a boy who receives a box of tapes recorded by his classmate Hannah, who recently took her own life. Each tape explains a reason why she made that choice, and Clay listens to find out his connection to her story. The book is emotional and serious, dealing with important topics like bullying and mental health. It makes you think about how small actions affect others. The story moves quickly and keeps you wanting to know more. The ending is heartbreaking, but it leaves a strong message.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This book is about an alien invasion that comes in deadly waves. Cassie, one of the few survivors, is trying to find her younger brother. Along the way, she meets Evan, who may not be who he seems. The book is full of action, suspense, and unexpected twists. The world feels real, and the characters are easy to connect with. The story is fast-paced and exciting, making it hard to put down. It is a great book for people who like dystopian stories with adventure and danger.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This book follows a boy named Will, whose brother was just killed. He gets on an elevator with a gun, planning to get revenge. But as the elevator goes down, ghosts from his past appear and make him question his choices. The book is written in verse, so it is quick to read, but the message is powerful. It talks about violence, grief, and breaking the cycle. The writing style makes it different from most books, but it is emotional and deep. It is a book that sticks with you.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This book is about Charlie, a shy and awkward high school freshman who struggles with past trauma. He finds friends in two seniors, Patrick and Sam, who show him how to enjoy life. The book is written as letters from Charlie, which makes it feel personal. It talks about mental health, friendship, and growing up. The writing is simple but powerful. It is an emotional book that makes you feel connected to the characters. The story is realistic and relatable.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

In this book, people get a call on the day they are going to die. Mateo and Rufus are strangers who meet on their last day and decide to spend it together. The story is emotional and makes you think about how you would live if you knew your time was almost up. The characters feel real, and the book is both heartbreaking and beautiful. Even though you know how it ends, the journey is what makes it worth reading. It is a great book for people who like emotional stories about friendship and life.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This book follows two girls, Camino and Yahaira, who do not know they are sisters until their father dies in a plane crash. As they learn the truth, they have to figure out how to deal with loss and family secrets. The book is written in verse, so it is fast to read but still full of emotion. It talks about grief, identity, and family. The story is powerful, and the writing is beautiful. It is a great book for people who like deep and meaningful stories.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This book is about a society where people are divided into factions based on their personalities. Tris, the main character, does not fit into just one group, which makes her dangerous. She joins a faction where she has to go through tough challenges to survive. Along the way, she uncovers secrets about her world. The book is full of action and adventure, with a little romance. The world-building is interesting, and the story moves quickly. It is great for people who like dystopian books with strong characters.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This book follows Leonard, a teenager who plans to end his life and take revenge on someone who hurt him. But before he does, he wants to say goodbye to the few people who matter to him. As the story unfolds, you learn what led him to this decision. The book is emotional and serious, dealing with topics like depression and trauma. The writing makes you feel connected to Leonard, even when he is struggling. It is a deep and powerful story that makes you think about kindness and second chances.

Reviewed by Cody L. High School

This book is about a future society where two teenagers, Day and June, are on opposite sides of a war. Day is a criminal fighting against the government, while June is a soldier working for them. When their paths cross, they start to question everything they thought was true. The story is full of action and mystery. It moves quickly and has a lot of twists. The characters are strong, and the world feels real. It is a great book for people who like adventures.

Reviewed by Yubeen K. High School

I I read the book All These Beautiful Strangers by Elizabeth Klehforth. The main character of the book is a girl named Charlie. When she was young, her mother, Grace, mysteriously disappeared. Now, at 17 years old, Charlie wants to join an exclusive high school club called the A’s. To become a member, she must complete several challenging missions. Despite the difficulty, Charlie is determined to succeed and completes each task one by one. In the process, she also uncovers secrets about her missing mother, Grace. This novel belongs to the mystery genre, and since I enjoy mystery and detective stories, I found it incredibly engaging. At first, I had no idea what was going on, but as I kept reading, I started picking up clues, and seeing everything fall into place was interesting.

Reviewed by Yubeen K. High School

I read The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald in my English class at school. Since it’s such a famous novel and I had already seen the movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio, the story felt familiar to me. This book vividly depicts the Roaring Twenties and criticize the corruption of society at the time. The main character, Gatsby, longed for wealth to escape his impoverished childhood, but behind his success lay lies and questionable actions. While the novel captures the atmosphere of the 1920s, what stands out is Gatsby’s unwavering love for Daisy. He devoted his life to her, but unlike him, Daisy was grounded in reality and ultimately did not choose him. This highlights the social hierarchy that no amount of effort can truly overcome. Although the themes of the novel are quite profound, the interesting characters and engaging storyline made it an enjoyable read.

Reviewed by O'ryon H. 11th Grade

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder follows Pip Fitz-Amobi, a sharp and determined high schooler who investigates a five-year-old murder case for her senior project. Though the town believes Sal Singh killed his girlfriend, Andie Bell, before taking his own life, Pip is convinced there’s more to the story. Holly Jackson blends a compelling mystery with true crime intrigue, using interview transcripts and case notes to immerse readers in the investigation. The twists come fast, keeping the tension high, though some side characters feel underdeveloped. A gripping, cleverly structured whodunit that hooks readers from start to finish.

Reviewed by O'ryon H. 11th Grade

Good Girl, Bad Blood picks up after Pip solves her first case, but this time, the stakes are even higher. When her friend’s brother goes missing, Pip is reluctant to return to detective work until she realizes the police aren’t taking his disappearance seriously. Holly Jackson raises the tension with a more intense, real-time mystery, enhanced by Pip’s growing moral struggles and the consequences of her previous investigation. The podcast format adds a fresh narrative layer, though some twists feel more dramatic than believable. A darker, more urgent sequel that deepens Pip’s character while delivering another fast paced, suspenseful mystery.

Reviewed by O'ryon H. 11th Grade

As Good As Dead takes Pip’s story to its darkest point yet, as she becomes the target of a mysterious stalker. No longer just investigating crimes, she finds herself trapped in a deadly game of survival. Holly Jackson shifts from mystery to psychological thriller, pushing Pip into morally complex territory that challenges everything she stood for. The book’s pacing is relentless, building to a shocking, divisive conclusion that some readers may find too extreme. A bold, unsettling finale that turns the series on its head, forcing readers to question justice, morality, and how far someone will go to protect themselves.

Reviewed by O'ryon H. 11th Grade

Horrorstör is a horror-comedy set in an IKEA inspired furniture store where employees working the night shift realize something sinister is lurking in the showroom. Grady Hendrix blends satire with supernatural horror, turning the mundanity of retail into a nightmare fueled by corporate greed and ghostly revenge. The novel’s creative format designed to look like a furniture catalog adds to its immersive and eerie atmosphere. While the characters are somewhat underdeveloped, the novel’s mix of humor and horror makes for a uniquely unsettling experience. A clever, fast paced horror novel that turns the horrors of modern capitalism into something truly monstrous.

Reviewed by O'ryon H. 11th Grade

The Final Girl Support Group is a fast-paced, adrenaline fueled thriller that follows a group of real-life "final girls", women who survived slasher-style massacres; who meet for support, only to realize someone is targeting them again. Grady Hendrix delivers a meta horror novel packed with references to classic slasher films, twisting familiar tropes into an original, action heavy story. The unreliable narrator adds to the tension, though the breakneck pacing and chaotic storytelling might be overwhelming for some readers. A brutal, suspenseful novel that plays with horror conventions while offering a fresh, feminist take on the final girl trope.

Reviewed by O'ryon H. 11th Grade

My Best Friend’s Exorcism is a horror novel set in the 1980s that follows best friends Abby and Gretchen, whose lives take a terrifying turn when Gretchen begins exhibiting disturbing behavior after a night gone wrong. Grady Hendrix blends supernatural horror with sharp social commentary, using the lens of possession to explore the complexities of teenage friendships, peer pressure, and personal identity. The nostalgic setting, packed with pop culture references, enhances the novel’s eerie yet emotionally charged atmosphere. Though the pacing slows in parts, the story builds to a gripping and unsettling climax. A dark, bittersweet horror novel that balances scares with heart