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15 YA Must-Reads of 2020

If you haven't had a chance to discover all of the amazing teen releases over this past tumultuous year, here are 15 captivating titles that may not have been on your radar. Reserve or pick one up and enjoy under a warm blanket!


IF YOU LIKED ONE OF US IS LYING, TRY . . .

The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes, a soapy mystery full of twists and riddles about a teen who discovers she can inherit a stranger billionaire's fortune if she lives in his mansion with his suspicious grandchildren for one year. Gr. 8+

For a grittier and socially-relevant mystery that is also a call to action against racism, try This Is My America by Kim Johnson. Gr. 9+

 



FEEL-GOOD ROMANCE

Today Tonight Tomorrow by Rachel Lynn Solomon is a funny, tender story of acaemic rivals who strategically team up against vengeful classmates for a city-wide scavenger hunt and find themselves falling for each other. Gr. 7+

Also try Leah Johnson's You Should See Me In a Crown, a refreshing look at an unexpected romance amid the tension of being Black, poor, and queer in a small town.

 

STORIES THAT PACK AN EMOTIONAL PUNCH

Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo, an evocative novel in verse follows the experiences of two grieving sisters who navigate the loss of their father and the impact of his death on their relationship. Gr. 9+

For another gripping read of a teen confronting haunting memories and trauma, read Watch Over Me by Nina LaCour. Grades 9+

 



FOR HISTORY LOVERS

We Are Not Free by Traci Chee explores the lives of four second-generation Japanese American teens in San Francisco who faced widespread discrimination and mass incarcerations during World War II. Powerful and important. Gr. 8+

If you enjoy a dose of fantasy with your history, try These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong, a multifaceted retelling of Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet set in 1920's Shanghai. Gr. 8+

 

GREAT GRAPHIC NOVELS

Flamer by Mike Curato In the summer between middle school and high school, Aiden Navarro navigates friendships, deals with bullies, and finds himself drawn to Elias, a boy he can't stop thinking about. Gr. 9+

Fans of offbeat horror might enjoy The Last Halloween, Book 1: The Children by Abby Howard a grisly gothic post-apocalyptic adventure.

 


INSPIRING SPORTS STORIES

Furia by Yamile Mendez follows 17-year-old Camila Hassan, a rising soccer star in Argentina, who dreams of playing professionally in defiance of her father's wishes and at the risk of her budding romance with Diego. Gr. 9+

For fans of Gene Luen Yang, try his graphic memoir Dragon Hoops, a candid and action-packed look at his life and the basketball team at the school where he teaches. Gr. 9+

 

CULTURALLY-DIVERSE FANTASY & SCI FI

A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown, inspired by West African folklore, finds a grieving crown princess and a desperate refugee on a collision course to destroy each other despite their growing attraction. Gr. 9+ For more lush magical fantasy, try Raybearer by Jordan Ifueko.

If you're looking for a suspenseful dystopian read, try Sanctuary by Paola Mendoza, about the harrowing journey of 16-year-old Vali as she flees Vermont and the Deportation Forces with her little brother in hopes of reaching their Tia Luna in the sanctuary state of California. Gr. 9+



For more reading suggestions, visit our What to Read Next teen page.
Dungeons & Dragons Kits available to borrow

300

Have you ever wanted to find out what playing Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) is all about without having to buy it?  Here's your chance!
 
You can now borrow one of two role-playing sets for up to two months, giving you plenty of time to learn the rules of the game and complete an adventure.
 
The D&D Starter Set is perfect for beginners aged 12+, offering five pre-generated characters, rulebook, four sets of dice, and a full-fledged adventure that's been crafted for you.  Great for 3-5 players.
 
For those who are familiar with the game but want more freedom to create your own characters and adventure, the D&D Essentials Kit provides everything you need to know to get started, including an introductory adventure, Dungeon Master's screen, map, four sets of dice, and 81 cards for magic items and sidekicks. Ideal for 2-6 players aged 12+.
 
Stop by our Main Floor Desk to ask about our kits or take one home using your library card.
 
 
These kits are made possible through CARES Act funding to Federal Institute of Museum and Library Services as administered by the Massachusetts Board of Library Commissioners.
 
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Let's Move in Libraries

Join Miss Amanda and the Middleborough Public Library for a season long celebration of healthy living.  Let's Move in Libraries will feature programs such as yoga storytimes, music and movement, Book and Cook focusing on preparing healthy meals and snacks, and so much more.  Check out the Funbrary with outdoor and indoor resources to keep your family active this winter.  Use your library card to borrow snowshoes, lawn games, and more.  Ready to get started?  Stop by the library and pick up a Let's Move BINGO, or print it here, and return it by March 1st to be entered into a prize drawing.  

Looking for more resources?

Make a plan to follow 5-2-1-0 

Academy of Pediatrics Physical Activity Tracker

Healthy Living Tips for Your Young Child(ren)

Healthy Snack Ideas

11 Simple Self Care Habits for Kids

 
Miss Amanda's Winter Storytime Room

Geared towards families with preschool age children.  Explore the room by clicking, listening, and following the prompts.  These will be updated with new themes.  Click here to begin.