GrubWrites

YAWPer Recommended: A Summer Reading List

Summer is right around the corner, and that means that our Young Adult Writers Program is almost in full swing! In celebration of summer vacation, our teen writers share the books that are lighting up their minds.

Whether you're in the mood for raw poetry, a 1984-style novel, or feminist dissent, there's a read for you! And if you're itching to read one of these teen picks, you can always grab a copy from our partners at Porter Square Books: Boston Edition.

		Bright Dead Things by Ada Limón If you want to be perceived as the dark, intriguing, and mysterious reader in a local café, Ada Limón's Bright Dead Things is the book for you. I know that poetry is not everyone’s favorite genre, but I think that Bright Dead Things is the perfect transition from prose to verse. Ada Limón has a raw poetic voice that is straightforward yet beautiful, and creates understated themes that contribute to a balanced and stunning book. Through intricate and mellifluous language, this book covers themes about finding home in a world that is “disorderly, and marvelous, and ours” (23). — Julia Dun Rappaport, YAWPer


		The Every by Dave Eggers The Every is that rare gemstone of a book that frames your life in an entirely different perspective. Equal parts humorous and dire, this 1984-style novel describes a future that seems far too close. As we follow Delaney, a woman determined to sabotage an all-encompassing monopoly, we delve into a world where nothing is hidden, and everything is recorded, judged, and digitized. Not only is this book beautifully worded, suspensefully plotted, and filled with a unique cast of characters, it is also deeply thought-provoking, and will leave you pondering its contents long after you’ve set it down. — Alma Barak, YAWPer


		Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo Looking for the next great magic series after Harry Potter? Look no further! Ravka is a war-ravaged land filled with Grisha, people who have elemental abilities. Alina is one of them, but her power is unique: the ability to summon the sun’s energy. However, many of the people she trusts want to exploit that power and use it for evil. Alina’s journey is unique from other books; her thoughts and feelings are tangible and heartfelt. She struggles with rejection, power, and fitting in. Her journey will keep readers up all night just to find out if Alina succeeds. — Greta Mastro, YAWPer


		My Own Words by Ruth Bader Ginsburg Are you a lifelong feminist that admires women in politics? Do the historical legal rights of women interest you? If yes, this book is for you! My Own Words by Ruth Bader Ginsburg explores her life and the obstacles of aspiring to be a lawyer in a sexist 20th century America. Her wit, confidence, and demeanor shine through each legal case, speech, dissent and triumph of her life. A truly heartfelt, educational and sometimes funny read that is perfect for a brief recess. — Madison Lucchesi, YAWPer