Book Review: Shadowshaper

SHADOWSHAPER by Daniel José Older is an engaging urban fantasy following a Latina teen who discovers a world of magic, spirituality, and ancient secrets in her Brooklyn neighborhood.

Walking corpses, spooky spirits, and a crying mural introduce Sierra to a world of magic and shadowshapers. Friends and family members are reluctant to talk about this supernatural world, so Sierra must use her head, heart, and passion for art to survive and unlock the mysteries surrounding this strange spirit world.

Older’s conversational approach immerses readers in the urban setting and invites readers to visualize the artwork, the city, and the supernatural aspects of the story.

Librarians will find a broad, young adult audience for this book. While the story isn’t categorized as a romance, readers will be drawn to the relationship between Sierra and her friend Robbie. Those who enjoy contemporary realistic fiction are likely to enjoy the book even with its fantasy elements. Young anthropologists will like the aspects of the story that connect community, ancestry, and family. Finally, the magical and supernatural aspects are sure to be popular with fans of fantasy.

For librarians seeking books with diversity, this would be an excellent choice.

To learn about the author, go to http://ghoststar.net/.

Published by Levine, an imprint of Scholastic on June 30, 2015.

Book Review: When Reason Breaks

WHEN REASON BREAKS by Cindy Rodriguez is a beautifully written work of realistic fiction for young adults. Told through alternating voices, the story follows two very different teens each facing the pressures of school and family. While Elizabeth’s frustrations and fears often end in outbursts, Emily’s anxieties are projected inward. An English teacher with a passion for Emily Dickinson brings the two together.

Rodriguez does a masterful job exploring the different faces of depression. Her characters are believable and realistic. Readers will easily connect with both the main characters as well as the supporting cast.

The author makes meaningful social references and seamlessly infuses cultural references without making these elements the focus on the story.

Weaving in a discussion of the poems of Dickinson was an excellent way to dig deep into the world of mental illness and depression. Librarians will want to pair this book with the works of Dickinson for a richer experience.

While some readers will be drawn to the theme of mental illness, others will enjoy the realistic portrayal of the everyday pressures of school, family, and friendship. All readers will gain insights into the triggers that lead to depression and suicide.

This is the Rodriguez’s first novel. Her experience as a classroom teacher are clearly reflected in her realistic portrayal of the classroom scenes. Readers will eagerly be following her website looking for her next YA book!

To learn more about this author, go to her website at http://cindylrodriguez.com/.