YA novels

Will the New Disney+ Series Redeem the ‘Percy Jackson’ Franchise?

Jordan Oulela, University of Texas at San Antonio

After the previous disastrous movie adaptation, Disney might have what it takes to succeed.…

May 6, 2022

owl from R.J. Anderson Faery Rebels series

R. J. Anderson Is the Master of the Unpredictable Fairy Fantasy Novel

Isabella Savides, University of Pretoria

While mystical series generally follow a predictable formula that may dissuade new readers, the Canadian author offers a refreshing take on the genre.…

December 9, 2021

Cinderella Is Dead. (Illustration by Marcus Escobar, Minneapolis College of Art and Design)

‘Cinderella Is Dead’ Reimagines a Sapphic Cinderella Story

Emma Watts, University of Arizona

This retelling of a classic tale follows two sapphic women who are determined to overthrow a dystopian patriarchal society.…

December 16, 2020

Image of the book Tigers, Not Daughters by Samantha Mabry

‘Tigers, Not Daughters’ Deftly Portrays the Many Aspects of Grief

Anna Barnard, St. Olaf College

In her new book, Samantha Mabry shows readers that vulnerability and independence are not mutually exclusive.…

July 30, 2020

‘The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes’ Shows Evil in the Need for Control

Anna Swenson, Butler University

Suzanne Collins' new prequel to the 'Hunger Games' trilogy investigates the origins of the series's central villain, President Snow, without justifying his hunger for power.…

June 14, 2020