This book is about 14 year old Izuku Midoriya who just wants to have a superpower known as a quirk. He was born without one and its impossible to get one. That doesn't stop him though. Eventually he meets All Might, Deku's idol, who offers him his quirk and a shot at being a hero.

My Hero Academia is a good book because it shows how if you try you can become anything. It's also wonderful book about superheroes.

I would totally recommend this book to anyone who loves superheroes or has watched the anime. Anyone who likes action stories would enjoy this too.

Analise, 12

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Why Nations Fail argues that economic and political institutions, not culture, ignorance, nor geography, are the determining factors of why global inequality perpetuates. Prosperity occurs when state is centralized and both economic and political institutions are inclusive, where citizens get to participate. Extractive institutions don't work in the long-run since they extract wealth to benefit one group at the expense of others.

I think the book is good since it illustrates good examples that support their analysis. It makes me think how important property rights are compared to times of unstable property rights when your stuff can randomly be taken away. Though it focuses how inclusive institutions can strengthen inclusive institutions and vice versa, that doesn't mean that it's destined to happen.

If you are interested in how economic institutions and political institutions play a role in wealth inequality, then this book is for you. It also includes historical examples to explain the inequalities present today. Though, you won't find a quick-fix solution in the book.

Anna, 15

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Jason Dessen has happy life with a lovely family and an ordinary job. Everything was great until he was kidnapped, drugged, and suddenly woke up in a place that wasn't his own. For that moment onward, his life turns into an array of perilous incidents that prevent him from meeting with his wife and son.

Dark Matter is the dictionary definition of an explosive page-turner, I finished it in one and a half days and tended to re-read the whole thing immediately, but I know how to contain myself. The plot is another great take on the multiverse concept, and the science combines both actuality and imagination seamlessly which hooks you on the story. You know this is a great book when you strip all of the sci-fi stuff, and the story boils down to a father who got separated from his family and tries his everything best to be with them, it is a personal and heartful story that is strengthened with multiverse travel which is enormously bonkers.  The prose is simple enough that it plays into the strength of the book, making it a certified page-turner.

I absolutely recommend Dark Matter to anyone who wants to break out of a reading slump. If you enjoy the multiverse concept, read it because it is another fresh take on the idea. Also, check your schedule because this book will keep you up all night, so be careful.

Minh, 16

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A woman cheats on her husband and has a daughter out of wedlock. And the story is how she lives after being a pariah by her people.

This book was okay, and it wasn't very good. The writing style is older and a little complicated. It was also boring because nothing interesting really happened. I didn't like how she was displayed in the story.

I would recommend this to older generations or to people who feel like they're displaced. Or people who would rather be on their own than listen to the demands and rules of society.

Jordan, 18

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Jade War continues the story of the Kaul family, the prominent members of the No Peak clan. This time the clan involves in a global war that risk their reputation and political power. While they are dealing with that, the Mountain Clan, No Peak's nemesis, uses the war to their advantage and one-upping No Peak, continuing their long-standing conflict.

I would give this book a 10 out of 5 stars if I could. Jade War is phenomenal. It is far superior than the first book in every aspects. The plot is thickening with all of the political game and back-stabbing shenanigans. The characters are extremely real. They are morally complex and emotionally relatable. You will cry, cheer, and get mad at these fictional people, and that's a win from Fonda Lee. The magic is expanding more this time around, with jade being established as a valuable resources and a major player in the conflict. The theme of family is both heartwarming and tearjerker materials, the loyalty and love between the members are sincere and profound. There are a few nitpicks or mixed aspects, the pacing is a little bit off at the beginning and middle, and Bero's storyline is not going to be liked by everyone, excluding me. But as a whole, this book is a well-done work of art and I love it.

I would recommend Jade War to fans of the first one, because it continues the storylines and the themes steadily with some fresh ideas sprinkled in it. It is one of the great sequels. If you don't like Jade City, I think it is hard for you to like this book, especially if one of your problems is Hilo and his moral.  This is one of my best-reads, and I would love for new readers to discover this series and enjoy it like I did.

Minh, 16

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The book was about two wizards who are competing against each other to be the new enchantress or enchanter for the king. The take part of all different events to see who the best enchanter is.

The book was amazing. I love the two places that the characters come from. One is an orphan and the other raised in the countryside by her father. I love seeing all the different abilities they have because it was interesting seeing what they could bring to the table to be the best enchanter.

This book has some love drama in it as the two enchanters start falling in love with each other if that is something that you are into. It is an enemy to lovers' story. There is fighting in it so that would be interesting for anyone who loves it.

Jocelyn, 17

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The book is about Edward and Alfonse Elric who are both alchemists. They work for the government and are considered guardians of the people. Their goal is to find the Philosopher's stone so they can bring back their ruined bodies and their mother.

This is probably the best manga I have read so far. I love the facial expressions and my favorite part was when Edward was freaking out over the fact that he's short. He strongly reminded me of some of my shorter friends.

I would recommend this book to really anybody. If you kind of like the magical component of Harry Potter and are into semi war stories, then this book is perfect for you.

Analise, 12

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The book was about Tara and her family being against the government. Their religious beliefs did not conform with the government or social norms.

I very much enjoyed the book because she spoke about her story and her hardships growing up. It will help others find their voice and tell their stories.

Yes I would recommend that people read this book because it is very heartfelt. Tara overcame and conquered her fear of her family and is helping others to step out of the darkness.

Nadia, 17

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The Victorian artist, Basil Hallward, is captivated by the young and attractive "Adonis" - Dorian Gray, whom he befriends and spends much time with. Dorian poses for Basil's portrait, which later becomes famous as "The Picture of Dorian Gray". Although Basil is hesitant, Dorian meets his friend Lord Henry, who he fears will corrupt Dorian's purity and charm. After seeing his portrait, Dorian becomes obsessed with his looks and becomes increasingly self-centered, leading him to make a series of questionable choices.

Few books have moved me as much as this one has. Perhaps it's because I've been exposed to subpar literature my whole life, but I've gained a newfound appreciation for classic and fiction books (before this, I had a strong preference for non-fiction). A good story is one thing, but an author's writing style is entirely another. Oscar Wilde's writing voice is incredibly powerful; even though The Picture of Dorian Gray is heavy on dialogue, it doesn't require elaborate scene descriptions since the dialogue effectively conveys the story. I can see why Wilde was known for his wit and eloquence in his time; reading just one of his books has already had an impact on me. The preface, often overlooked, was also deeply moving, and I encourage any potential readers to read it several times to fully grasp Wilde's message. I'm not sure what motivated me to purchase The Picture of Dorian Gray, but I'm certainly grateful that I did.

In my opinion, The Picture of Dorian Gray is a truly unique story, particularly given the intolerant climate of the Victorian era in which it was written. The book conveys the author's personal beliefs in a way that is both impactful and seamlessly woven into the narrative, making it a truly remarkable read. It's a book that anyone seeking a compelling story would want to read, particularly those with an interest in Victorian London.

Zari, 15

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In a post-plague world, two seemingly supernatural powers arise. A good, and an evil. Everyone has a choice, and as their numbers rise, so does the conflict. Only one power can remain and rule.

The Stand is a very lengthy book, and that was certainly part of the appeal. The Stand was very good in my opinion, because there were a lot of plot twists, and the characters were all well-written. It certainly was a bit sad, because there are many deaths, but that's another thing that makes it great.

If you like good-vs-evil type conflicts, violence, and suspense - and if you don't mind reading 1,000+ pages - then you would love The Stand by Stephen King.

Mischa, 14

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A cute ghost story about a girl named Nene Yashiro who goes into the legendary bathroom stall of school mystery No. 7, Hanako San. What she finds there is very different than she is expecting. She ends up becoming the assistant of Hanako Kun and together they solve the school mysteries.

I loved this book and it's a wonderful start to the world of manga. The characters have adorable personalities the setting is cute. One of my favorites.

I would totally recommend this book to any manga or anime fan. This is totally worth reading.

Analise, 12

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Sets in the fictional city of Janloon, Jade City is an Asia-inspired fantasy novel revolves around the No Peak clan, an organization that is similar to the crime/mafia families, in the conflicting war with their rivalry, the Mountain Clan. It is a story of family, honor, greed, wealth, power, and loyalty.

I loved it! It was one of the best novels I have ever read. The biggest highlight for me in this book is the relationships in the family, specifically the No Peak Clan. I would compare their dynamics to the Corleone family in The Godfather, where you see how much they love the others and how important loyalty are to them. Every single character feels like they have a lot of history with each other, you will never feel bog down by their interactions. The plot is intriguing and suspenseful, there's twists and turns that will leave your mouth open, but they feel earned and not out of nowhere. There's barely any action, but when the action hits, it hits hard. Fonda Lee wrote the action scenes in the veins of martial arts films or wuxia films. The magic system, it is a fantasy novel, is unique and visually appealing but not well developed but I think the readers could understand what is going on when the magic comes in. The worldbuilding is well crafted, the atmosphere and the social aspects are inspired by Hong Kong in the 20th century and you can feel it. It was a fantastic read for me.

I highly recommend Jade City to fans of The Godfather and have interests in martial arts or Hong Kong. This is an adult fantasy novel, so there are some vulgar languages and scenes that might not appealing to you but they are a small part of the book. Also if you enjoy a good and loyal family, well-developed sibling relationships, you would devour this book.

Minh, 16

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The book is called Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is about a boy named Harry Potter who just found out that he is a wizard. As a baby, he survived the most deadliest curse from the most dangerous wizard named Lord Voldemort. After that horrible incident, everyone saw him as their savior for defeating Lord Voldemort. When he got a little bit older, he was invited to a wizarding school called Hogwarts. Harry was able to learn how to cast spells, ride on broomsticks, and brew potions. But within the walls of Hogwarts castle, there’s a hidden secret Harry needs to uncover before Lord Voldemort rises again.

I love fantasy novels with wizards and spells, dragons and witches, curses and incantations. The book of Harry Potter includes all of its exciting adventures that involve kids and how they solve mysteries.

I recommend this book to those who love anything that has to do with fantasy, magic, mythical creatures, and a fight between good and evil. This book has an engaging story that you can't wait to know what happens next.

Katherine, 14

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One girl, two lives. One online and one in real life. In real life she is the daughter of two famous documentary directors and the granddaughter to a famous book editor. When she is online she could be herself, a book reviewer, without anyone liking her house or her family background. Everything changes when she moves and meets her online best friend of many years and ends up having a HUGE crush on him. Without him know who she truly is.

I enjoyed this book because throughout the book is reveals how the main character didn’t really know much about her culture, due to the fact that her parents never had the time to teach her. So when she gets closer to her grandpa, she realizes how little she know about her background and her own people and her wanting to learn more. It also displayed how many teens my age have the problem to express themselves in real life rather than online.

If you love coming of age books, I think you will really enjoy this book.

Chelsea, 15

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A fairly dysfunctional family has to stay together in a hotel cut off from the rest of the world for the summer. This hotel is infested by an evil spirit, one the young son of the family has many harsh encounters with. Danny, the boy, has a special ability, one this evil desperately wants.

The Shining is a thrilling book because the way Stephen King writes the different characters' perspectives provides insight into so many things. How the hotel begins to take over Jack's mind. How terrifying the nightmares that 'Tony' brings for Danny. How the survival instinct of a mom kicks in when her son is in danger. It dives deeper than a simple horror story.

If you like horror, the slow spread of insanity, and supernatural evils, then you would enjoy The Shining by Stephen King.

Mischa, 14

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The boys are stranded on an island and are unable to get help. As they try to survive in the wilderness, they encountered an obstacle more fierce and dangerous than all of the creatures in the area: the evils of humanity.

I think it was a great book it makes you think how terrible humanity can be when rules do not get enforced. I like how the fear of a great beast turned out to be something they made up in their minds because they don't know what the threat is. Though, all the behaviors displaying savagery in an uncivilized area is not necessarily accurate.

If you are having a great day and you have hope for humanity, then I would recommend you read this book and then reconsider your values of humanity. It is also great if you need to confirm your biases that the world is terrible, then this book is for you.

Anna, 15

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The book is called City of Ember by Jeanne DuPrau is a post-apocalyptic novel. The story is about an underground city and the citizens of which don't even know anything about the surface world or any world at all. They lived in the city for over 200 years and it is the only world that they know of that exists. Unfortunately, the city started to wear down and eventually it could be engulfed by pitch black darkness and with all of the citizens in it. But now it is up to 2 kids, Lina Mayfleet, and her friend, Doon Harrow who will lead everyone back into the light.

I prefer to read the book instead of watching the movie. How sad it is to live in a dark world which is lit up by only light bulbs and don’t even know there is a huge world above them. I loved this mystery and how the characters went through so much trouble to solve the secrets hiding within the City of Ember.

Those who love dramatic realistic fiction and a post-apocalyptic novel would find this book exciting and interesting. Bravery and friendship is the main key to success in this novel. The story flows smoothly and the feeling of anxiety of wanting to know what happens next will rise with every page of the book.

Katherine, 14

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Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan is a fantasy novel and the first book in the "Percy Jackson and the Olympians" series. The book follows the story of Percy Jackson, obviously, a 12-year-old with dyslexia and ADHD who discovers that he is a demigod, the son of a mortal and a Greek god.

I loved that the author uses descriptive language to show us the world he created, especially me as a person who hadn't a clue what the Greek gods were but by the end of the novel, I could say I can name about 5 off the top of my head. I also love that in the book, it blends Greek Mythology with modern-day elements.

I would recommend this series to anyone who enjoys a thrilling and action-packed story that blends Greek mythology into it and to anyone who wants to learn about Greek Mythology.

Victoria, 17

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The children of rival restaurants. They both face the dilemma of the shops that they love so dearly being sold due to the new restaurant, 'World Fusion Cafe' stealing their recipes and customers. They both begrudgingly have to work together but can they save their restaurants or will they find something deeper within themselves?

Cafe Con Lychee is an amazing book. The book really gets in the mind of the protagonists and feels as though you are immersed in their world! The plot is wonderful ( I LOVE THE FORCED PROXIMITY TROPE + THE ENEMIES TO LOVERS) and the different supporting characters that go through typical issues that high schoolers would face which I love as a high schooler right now.

I would recommend as someone who is part of the LGBTQ+ Community and being Hispanic, the lessons that are brought up are really important and hit close to home. I found comfort in the characters, which I feel like other people can connect to, or without identifying with such.

Jocelyn, 17

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The son of the president of the United States, and the son of the England Monarch do not see eye to eye. After a mishap with the press, the two families force the two to be best friends to clear the air for the rest of the world. What happens when they don't need to pretend anymore? Will the world approve of their love or will they have to diminish their fiery passion for each other?

I loved this book, the push and pull of these two were absolutely cheesy and kept me reading. This read took me two days to complete on a road trip and I was so disappointed that there was not a sequel to this book :( .I did love the writing and almost anyone could pick this up and have a wonderful time getting to know Prince Henry and Alex.

I would recommend this book! It's a relatively beautiful and fulfilling read. The banter and the chemistry is something to die for! I have re-read this book many times and I have truly come to appreciate it more each time. The book may have some parts in which it can be slow but also contain some scenes with spice so please beware lol. I have given this book to a friend who doesn't favor reading as I do, and she was HOOKED I tell you!!

Jocelyn, 17

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