Recommendations by Staff

Ms. Kirchhoff says you should read this because it's a "great fantasy series"

Mr. Marsden loves this book because it's "an excellent Sci-Fi adventure full of humor and smart writing"

Mr. Rockwood says you should read this book because it's a "story of culture, politics, and justice."

Don't miss what Ms. McEldowney calls an "interesting dystopian vision."

Mr. Majkrzak says, "Former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt's journey through the Amazon jungle with his son will open your eyes to what it means to "go beyond your limits". It is an amazing story of the human capabilities for endurance and perseverance."

Ms. Jones says it's, "a beautiful story about defying circumstances and coming together to try to be good to each other."

Ms. DeLeon says, "It is a powerful tale of identity, survival and love of four generations of an immigrant family. It does not only present a historical perspective of the dynamics of Koreans and Japanese during the 20th century but also portrays many layers of a family's relationships and aspects of women in different socioeconomic contexts."

Ms. Kleiner-Vilgos says it's "A fun fantasy YA novel about POC and elemental magic."

Ms. Chambers Lazio says, "Adeyemi's writing style and narration are captivating as is her message about police brutality and systemic violence, which she communicates through a fantasy-based story about a girl who is trying to bring back magic to her world and save her people from an oppressive government in doing so. I could not put either of these books down--read them in just a couple of days--and cannot wait to watch the film when Disney releases it!"

Ms. Kelel says, "This book, this author, takes a genre that we are all familiar with and shines it new light on it. "

Ms. Boettcher says, "I loved how Michelle Obama shared her personal experiences about growing up in Chicago and going to college. She was very vulnerable in sharing the things that were challenging for her, and I felt so encouraged in reading about her journey!"

Ms. Shorts says, "American students need to know the sacrifices Americans made for the freedom they enjoy today. Virginia Hall was a spy for the Allies during World War 2; she was in the French Resistance; rescued pilots. She was a remarkable and brave American. This book reads like a suspense novel."

Ms. Brodsky loves this book because it "explores mental illness in a modern context, is funny at times, and a local music talent wrote it!"

Ms. Lee says it's, "A memoir that highlights an incredible journey of overcoming obstacles. I read it in high school and it was a powerful read."

Mr. Truman says, "A teenageer dealing with learning and growing up and finding their true self -- with magic! What's not to love?"

Ms. Cooley-Klein says, "This is one of those books that makes you occasionally put it down and go "woah" as you read. It's not what I'd call a beach read, but this book's captivating absurdism perfectly showcases the mind-expanding power of a novel, especially one that probes the very nature of time and reality."

Mr. Denhard says, "This novel is a sometimes funny and often sad book about the obvious truth that people will forget or don't want to acknowledge: War is bad, no matter what popular media might tell you. There is also a fantastic comic book adaptation from last year by Ryan North and Albert Monteys."

Ms. Eberhart-Bliss says, "This novel captured my mind and took it on a journey I never forgot."

Mr. Dimmick says, "So many of us -- especially in HS -- are so stressed out about EVERYTHING; this book highlights 6 of the most relaxed nations on earth and what they do to de-stress and simply enjoy life"

Mr. Sarjeant says, "A nice introduction to modern physics and the theories behind new and merging technologies."

Mr. Mack says, "Every high schooler should be aware of the sacrifices and courage shown by President Lincoln and thousands of Americans to eradicate slavery from our nation."

Ms. Soykan says you should read it because "it's a graphic novel that portrays Batman with all the strengths and shortcomings of the human he is. "

Mr. Key says, "Exciting to read! Gripping!"

Ms. Mohan says, "Shusterman’s dark tale thrusts realistic, likable teens into a surreal future society and raises deep philosophic questions about life and death. This thoughtful and thrilling story is the first of an exciting series."

Ms. Bailey says this book is "another classic about Injustice."

Ms. Jamison says, "It is a very different type and style of book that a student may really find that they enjoy reading."

Mr. Kim says, "By far one of the most influential, informative, and effective books I have ever read. Our problem in today's egregiously tech engrossed society of social media, people have forgotten or do not have the skills necessary to have effective courageous or crucial conversations with others. People hide behind keyboards, are scared, or simply cannot communicate information in person anymore. This book provides those simple skills and is well written, easy to read, with great applicable examples. I recommended it to my wife, kids, and brother whom all have had great success with it. I believe everyone should read this book including the adults. We'd be much better off than where we are today!! "

Ms. Nutter says, "This book reinforces the concept of perseverance to accomplish your dreams. Continue to work hard and do what is right, not what is easy. "

Ms. Hollies says, "This science fiction book looks at gender and friendships using the lens of an alien culture."

Ms. Foster says, "This is a memoir that many immigrant children who are escaping poverty could connect with. Also, for non-immigrant children should read this to comprehend the plight that classmates and members of the community face."

Mr. Lasko says, "It is a great action packed read that examines what it means to have consciousness."