By Joao Nsita
As we head into the spring of 2024, there's a lot to be excited about in the world of young adult literature. From thrilling mysteries to emotionally honest coming-of-age stories, April promises to deliver a diverse array of titles that will captivate readers of all ages. Here are six young adult books that I'm particularly looking forward to in the coming month.
The Misdirection of Fault Lines by Anna Gracia (April 2, 2024)
Anna Gracia's latest novel has been described as "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants goes to the French Open," and that alone is enough to pique my interest. The story follows three Asian American teen girls as they compete at the elite Bastille Invitational tennis tournament, each with their own unique motivations and challenges. Alice is grappling with the recent loss of her father and the pressure to make the tournament's expense "worth it." Violetta, a social media influencer and daughter of a former tennis star, is trying to reclaim the future her mother gave up to raise her. And Leylah, who hasn't competed in two years due to a back-stabbing ex-friend, sees Bastille as her last chance to prove she's ready for a life of professional tennis.
What I love about the premise of this book is how it promises to explore the complexities of adolescence and the pressures of expectation through the lens of a highly competitive sports tournament. Gracia's previous work, "Boys I Know," was praised for its refreshingly true-to-life teen voice, and I have no doubt that she will bring that same authenticity and wit to "The Misdirection of Fault Lines."
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The Black Girl Survives in This One by Saraciea J. Fennell (April 2024)
Horror anthologies are having a moment right now, and "The Black Girl Survives in This One" looks like it will be a standout addition to the genre. The collection features 15 stories by an all-star lineup of authors, including Zakiya Dalila Harris, Brittney Morris, and Monica Brashears, all centered around Black girls who face various terrors and survive. The book promises to push the "Final Girl" trope in new and exciting directions, and with a forward by Tananarive Due, it's sure to be a must-read for any horror fan.
What excites me most about this anthology is the opportunity to see how these talented authors will subvert and reimagine horror tropes through the lens of Black girlhood. I'm also looking forward to discovering new voices in the genre and seeing how they approach the theme of survival in fresh and unexpected ways.
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Sheine Lende by Darcie Little Badger, Illustrated by Rovina Cai (April 2024)
Darcie Little Badger's debut novel, "Elatsoe," was a revelation, earning countless accolades for its unique voice and wonderful protagonist. Now, Little Badger is returning to that world with a prequel that focuses on Ellie's grandmother, Shane. In "Sheine Lende," Shane must use her experience finding missing persons with ghost dogs to track down her own mother.
I'm excited to dive back into the rich, imaginative world that Little Badger created in "Elatsoe" and to learn more about the family history that shaped Ellie's journey. With illustrations by the talented Rovina Cai, "Sheine Lende" promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant adventure.
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Blood Justice by Terry J. Benton-Walker (April 2024)
Terry J. Benton-Walker's debut novel, "Blood Debts," was a thrilling, intricately plotted fantasy set in a magical version of New Orleans. In the sequel, "Blood Justice," siblings Cris and Clem Trudeau must defend their recently won throne against mighty forces seeking revenge and power.
I'm eager to see how Benton-Walker expands upon the rich world-building and complex characters introduced in "Blood Debts." With the promise of high-stakes political intrigue, deadly magic, and familial bonds put to the test, "Blood Justice" is sure to be a page-turner.
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Kill Her Twice by Stacey Lee (April 2024)
Stacey Lee, the bestselling author of "The Downstairs Girl," is back with a new historical mystery set in 1932. "Kill Her Twice" follows three sisters who stumble upon the body of a dead movie star, Lulu, and decide to investigate when the LAPD fails to do so.
I'm a sucker for a good historical mystery, and the premise of "Kill Her Twice" has me hooked. I'm excited to see how Lee brings 1930s Hollywood to life and how she develops the relationship between the three sisters as they work together to solve the case.
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The One That Got Away with Murder by Trish Lundy (April 2024)
"The One That Got Away with Murder" promises to be a gripping mystery about two brothers, Robbie and Trevor Cresmont, who are believed to be responsible for the deaths of their ex-girlfriends. When a newcomer named Lauren arrives in town and a third death occurs, she must decide who to trust as she tries to uncover the truth.
I'm intrigued by the premise of this book and the moral ambiguity it suggests. I'm curious to see how Lundy develops the characters of Robbie and Trevor and how she keeps readers guessing until the very end.
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April 2024 is shaping up to be an exciting month for young adult literature, with a diverse range of titles that span multiple genres and explore complex themes. From the emotional honesty of "The Misdirection of Fault Lines" to the thrilling mysteries of "Kill Her Twice" and "The One That Got Away with Murder," there's something for every reader to look forward to. Personally, I can't wait to dive into these stories and discover new voices and perspectives in the world of YA fiction.
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