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13 Most-Anticipated Middle Grade Books Out Fall 2020

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13 Most-Anticipated Middle Grade Books Coming Fall 2020

Great Middle Grade Books Coming This Fall

It’s finally fall! A new season and new fantastic middle grade books coming out soon to usher in the spooky season and the cooler weather. (Well, thoughts of cooler weather, anyway. Here in Florida, we have a while yet before we get a real break from the heat.)

I’m not usually a big Halloween girl– I was raised not celebrating, so I guess I’ve never really gotten into the holiday as an adult. This year, though, there are some spooky books on my wish list that I think will be perfect for readers looking for a deliciously creepy crawly read.

There are also some great stories about relationships and celebrating the arts, like writing, ballet, and figure skating. I’m super excited about reading those.

One book on the list is particularly special as it’s the story of an unlikely friendship between a Palestinian man and an Isreaeli woman. An inspiring story about friendship crossing boundaries like that is something we all need.

For the books on this list that I’ve already read, you’ll notice a link to my review. I’ll try to come back and update the list as I post new reviews, so it should be pretty current. You can also browse the titles on Goodreads and see what other readers are saying.

Note: This post contains affiliate links.

13 Middle Grade Books Out Fall 2020 (Plus 3 August Titles You May Have Missed)

The Summer We Found the Baby by Amy Hest

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: During World War II, two sisters vacationing at a beach house find a baby on the steps of the library.

Available August 4, 2020 | My review

Believe by Julie Mathison

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A sweet, imaginative story about a girl dealing with grief and loneliness and a class putting together the play, PETER PAN. Funny and heartfelt.

Available August 4, 2020 | My review

Kiki MacAdoo and the Graveyard Ballerinas by Colette Sewall

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A forest where “Ballets come alive.” A missing sister and the ballet, Giselle, featuring ghostly sylphs who will try to force Kiki to dance until she dies.

Available August 4, 2020

The Circus of Stolen Dreams by Lorelei Savaryn

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A sister looking for her lost brother. A magical circus where the cost of entry is a memory. For fans of CIRCUS MIRANDUS and THE NIGHT GARDENER.

Published September 1, 2020

Three Keys (Front Desk #2) by Kelly Yang

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: Great friends. An aspiring writer and motel owner facing a roller coaster of challenges. Immigration laws that could jeopardize everything she cares about.

Published September 15, 2020

The Land of the Cranes by Aida Salazar

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A novel in verse. A Latinx girl in a family detention center for migrants and regufees. Aztec mythology.

Published September 15, 2020

Double the Danger and Zero Zucchini by Betsy Uhrig

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A boy gets hired by his aunt to help her fix her children’s book about a grumpy frog and prize-winning zucchini. Sounds hilarious to me!

Published September 22, 2020

Maya and the Rising Dark by Rena Barron

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: Perfect for fans of ARU SHAH AND THE END OF TIME. A girl’s quest to find her father and save our world from evil beyond.

Published September 22, 2020

The Silver Box by Margi Preus

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Francie Frye, a reluctant northwoods Nancy Drew tackles her third mystery and hopes to uncover the truth about her mother.

Available October 6, 2020 | My Review

The Fallen Hero (Dragon Warrior #2) by Katie Zhao

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Sequel to The Dragon Warrior. A brother set on revenge. A sister who must save him. High adventure and Chinese mythology in a modern-day setting.

Available October 6, 2020

Cinders and Sparrows by Stefan Bachmann

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A suspenseful tale of witches, family, and magic. Perfect for fans of Diana Wynn Jones, Victoria Schwab, and Kate Milford.

Available October 13, 2020

The Monster of Marnmouth Valley by CJ Greene

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A land in peril since a monster has started drinking all the water. A 12-year-old fated to aid an elderly woman to save the village, if only she can pry her away from her knitting.

Available October 15, 2020

Ana on the Edge by A. J. Sass

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A figure skating champion. Gender identity issues and friendship.

Available October 20, 2020

Aster’s Good, Right Things by Kate Gordon

Book Depository | Goodreads

What you need to know: A girl compelled to do secret good deeds. A boy in princess pajamas who helps her.

Available November 1, 2020

The Princess Diaries by Meg Cabot

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A brand new, middle grade edition of the beloved book that inspired the movie starring Anne Hathaway and Julie Andrews.

Available November 3, 2020

The Lemon Tree by Sandy Tolan (Young Readers’ Edition)

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A Palestinian and an Israeli sit on the steps of the home where each grew up and begin a surprising friendship. Based on Tolan’s extensive research and reporting.

Available November 3, 2020

What’s on your fall reading list?

Are any of these middle grade books on your fall 2020 reading list? What books are you most looking forward to reading this fall?

12 YA Books I Can’t Wait to Read Coming September 2020

Lists, News and Fun, Young Adult/Teen 12-18, , , , ,

September at Last!

All the changes this past spring with lock-downs and social distancing and online learning threw me for a loop. It also delayed a lot of the books I’d been looking forward to reading, which meant I spent the summer scrambling to catch up on the ARCs that publishers had sent me. I’m finally seeing a light at the end of the reading tunnel so to speak, and it’s just in time to jump into the amazing line-up of YA books coming out in September 2020.

Happy Book Birthday to September 1st Releases!

Punching the Air by Ibi Zoboi and Dr. Yusef Salaam

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Written by award-winning, bestselling author Ibi Zoboi and prison reform activist Yusef Salaam of the Exonerated Five. Tells the story of a Black Muslim teen wrongfully convicted of a crime and his desperate fight for truth and freedom.

Available September 1, 2020 | My Review

Majesty (American Royals #2) by Katharine McGee

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Three descendants of America’s first king (George Washington) battle for love and power in the sequel to AMERICAN ROYALS.

Available September 1, 2020

Blood & Honey (Serpent & Dove #2) by Shelby Mahurin

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: The stakes are higher, the magic more dangerous, and the players more desperate in this fiery sequel to SERPENT & DOVE.

Available September 1, 2020

Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: This Own Voices debut is set during Día de Muertos. Features Latinx magic, a trans main character, and ghost love interest.

Available September 1, 2020

Not Your #LoveStory by Sonia Hartl

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: #PlaneBae meets Gilmore Girls. A rising YouTube star who reviews VHS tapes, fake dating, and a shy boy next door.

Available September 1, 2020 | My Review

More Great YA Books Coming September 2020

The Other Side of the Sky by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: High stakes, forbidden love, and an incredible story by the team who gave us the Starbound Trilogy.

Available September 8, 2020

These Vengeful Hearts by Katherine Laurin

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A secret society that can deal out favors or social ruin and one girl determined to take them down. Looks deliciously suspenseful.

Available September 8, 2020 | My Review

Never Look Back by Lilliam Rivera

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Own Voices retelling of the Greek myth Orpheus and Eurydice. Magical realism, music, trauma recovery, and first love.

Available September 15, 2020 | My Review

Grown by Tiffany D. Jackson

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know:

Available September 15, 2020

Smash It! by Francina Simone

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A hot mess heroine who’s ready to stand up instead of back. I’ve heard some conflicting response to this book and mentions of problematic content.

Available September 22, 2020 | My Review

Dear Hero by Hope Bolinger and Alyssa Roat

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A matching site pairs a hero and villain… who start to fall in love? Sounds really fun and cute.

Available September 28, 2020

Fence: Striking Distance by Sarah Rees Brennan

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Inspired by the award-nominated comic series by C.S. Pacat and Johanna The Mad. Drama, fencing, bad dates, and adventure. I’m a huge fan of Sarah Rees Brennan, so I’m really excited about this one.

Available September 29, 2020

What are you reading this September?

Have you read any of the books on this list? What new releases are you most excited to check out?

14 Middle Grade Debut Books You Need to Read This Year

Lists, Middle Grade 8-12, News and Fun, , , , , ,

Debut Authors Need Your Help

Middle grade debut books often face more challenges than subsequent books by established writers, and that’s never been more true than this year. Beginning last spring, concerns about COVID-19 meant not only school closures, but author visits, book fairs, book signings, book cons, summer library and bookstore programs– major things authors do to promote their books– were canceled.

Here’s something you can do to help. Read through this list. Add titles to your Goodreads shelf using the links below. If your budget allows, purchase a couple of the books on this list through any of the buy links. (Amazon, Book Depository and Indiebound links are affiliate links.)

At the bottom of the list, I’ve posted a quick ideas list of 4 ways you can support these authors and help promote their debut MG titles even if you can’t afford to buy their books.

14 Middle Grade Debut Books

Stand Up, Yumi Chung by Jessica Kim

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: Mistaken identity gives Yumi the chance she’s been dreaming of at comedy camp. A funny, feel-good story.

Published March 17, 2020

Get a Grip, Vivy Cohen by Sarah Kapit

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: Told through letters between a girl with autism and a dream to pitch baseball and her major league hero.

Published February 25, 2020

My Life as a Potato by Arianne Costner

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: An unwilling team mascot, a possible potato curse, and a chance at the prettiest girl in school. Super fun.

Published March 4, 2020 | My review

Mary Underwater by Shannon Doleski

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A hopeful (and at times heartbreaking) story of a young girl who decides to build a submarine and sail it across the Chesapeake Bay.

Published April 7, 2020 | My Review

Ghost Squad by Claribel Ortega

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: Goodreads describes this one as “Coco meets Stranger Things with a hint of Ghostbusters.” Spooky and sweet. Also, I heard there’s a cat!

Published April 7, 2020

Finally, Something Mysterious by Doug Cornett

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: Three friends. Hundreds of rubber duckies. A town enthralled with its upcoming bratwurst competition. I laughed out loud!

Published April 14, 2020 | My review

The Mostly Invisible Boy by AJ Vanderhorst

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A brother and sister take a wild adventure through the monster-infested Sylvan Wood. Quirky, funny and entertaining.

Published April 25, 2020 | My Review

Turtle Boy by M. Evan Wolkenstein

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A boy with a weird chin, a hospital-bound punk drummer, and a bucket list that might change everything.

Published May 5, 2020

What Happens Next by Claire Swinarski

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A solar eclipse, a search for a missing telescope, and a girl missing her older sister. Perfect for fans of THE THING ABOUT JELLYFISH.

Published May 19, 2020 | My Review

The Dream Weavers by Reina Luz Alegre

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: An ownvoices story about a 12 year-old girl who connects with her Cuban heritage and about discovering where you belong for the first time.

Published June 23, 2020

A Summer Taken by Jason Milgram

Amazon | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A girl facing summer camp again after losing her cousin and inspiration. Heartbreaking and hopeful.

Published July 4, 2020

The Circus of Stolen Dreams by Lorelei Savaryn

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A sister looking for her lost brother. A magical circus where the cost of entry is a memory. For fans of CIRCUS MIRANDUS and THE NIGHT GARDENER.

Published September 1, 2020

Beetle and the Hollowbones by Aliza Layne

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A graphic novel following a young goblin on a search for her best friend in a haunted mall.

Published September 1, 2020

Double the Danger and Zero Zucchini by Betsy Uhrig

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What You Need to Know: A boy gets hired by his aunt to help her fix her children’s book about a grumpy frog and prize-winning zucchini. Sounds hilarious to me!

Published September 22, 2020

4 Ways You Can Help These Debut Authors

  • Order a copy of any of these books using the buy links listed.
  • Contact your local library and ask them to order copies of these titles.
  • Share this post so that other readers can see the list and support the authors, too!
  • Write your own blog or social media post that highlights your favorite debut authors’ books– be sure to include at least one buy link.

There are more middle grade debut books in this list on Goodreads, too. Check it out and find even more titles you might like!

What are your favorite debut middle grade titles from this year?

Have you read any of the books on this list? Which are your favorites, or which ones are you excited to read?

If you’ve got other debut titles on your reading list, let me know about them! Let’s spread the word and help support this year’s debut authors.

8 Most-Anticipated YA Books Coming in August 2020

Lists, News and Fun, Young Adult/Teen 12-18, , , , , ,

All the changes this past spring with lock-downs and social distancing and online learning threw me for a loop. It also delayed a lot of the books I’d been looking forward to reading, which meant I spent the summer scrambling to catch up on the ARCs that publishers had sent me. I’m finally seeing a light at the end of the reading tunnel so to speak, and I wanted to pause and share some of the young adult books I’m most excited about that come out this month.

I’m always up for fantasy, so there are a few of those on here. Lately, though, I’ve been a big fan of rom-com, so I’ve included a couple of those that I’m very eager to escape into. Check out the list and let me know which are on your reading list. Better still, use the buy links and order a couple now so you have a pick-me-up waiting for you in the mailbox.

Note: Amazon, Book Depository, and Indiebound links are affiliate links which help support this blog but don’t cost you anything extra to use.

Most-Anticipated YA Books Coming in August 2020

Midnight Sun (Twilight #4) by Stephenie Meyer

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Hades and Persephone inspired story that tells of Edward and Bella’s meeting from his perspective.

I’ve read the other books in the Twilight series, and I remember hearing that Meyer was writing this one. It feels big, because the series was so big, and maybe because right now, we’re longing for the lives we had pre-pandemic? Whatever the case, I’m anticipating a LOT of bookish chat about this book this month.

Available August 4, 2020

Lobizona by Romina Garber

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Follows the story of an undocumented immigrant who is part of a special community of people who are witches and werewolves.

I’ve already read this one, and I loved it so much. Definitely a great escapist story that will make you walk in the shoes of an undocumented girl in a way you’re unlikely to ever forget.

Available August 4, 2020 | My Review

Bookish and the Beast by Ashley Poston

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Poston gives us her retelling of Beauty and the Beast as a tribute to her favorite versions of the story and a funny, sweet reimagined tale in its own right.

Loads of fun, and another dip into the Starfield world.

Available August 4, 2020 | My Review

Set Fire to the Gods by Sara Raasch and Kristen Simmons

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: SNOW LIKE ASHES trilogy and METALTOWN authors team up to deliver a fast-paced, high-stakes story about a rebel leader and magic-hiding fighter who reignite an ancient war between the gods.

I really liked SNOW LIKE ASHES, so I’m anxious to check this one out.

Available August 4, 2020

Star Daughter by Shveta Thakrar

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Hindu mythology plus STARDUST by Neil Gaiman. Hailed as perfect for fans of Laini Taylor and Roshani Chokshi.

I am really excited to read this book. I’m a huge fan of Laini Taylor and Roshani Chokshi, so I was pretty much hooked once I heard the comparison to their books.

Available August 11, 2020

Don’t Ask Me Where I’m From by Jennifer De Leon

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Racial tension. Family secrets. #Ownvoices story about a Latinx girl.

Available August 18, 2020

Where Dreams Descend (Kingdom of Cards #1) by Janella Angeles

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Magicians compete in a high-stakes tournament to be the headliner at the Conquering Circus.

Seems a bit like a darker GIRL ON WIRE or something along the lines of CARAVAL maybe? I’m super interested in this one.

Available August 25, 2020 | My Review

Now That I’ve Found You by Kristina Forest

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Fabulous rom-com, an eccentric grandma, and a race across New York City. This sounds like the perfect pandemic-escape read!

Available August 25, 2020

What are your most anticipated August 2020 books?

Which books coming this month are on your reading list? Have you ordered any of them yet?

I’m toying with the idea of pre-ordering a book or two each month so that I have a surprise in the mail to look forward to. STAR DAUGHTER and NOW THAT I’VE FOUND YOU are at the top of my pre-order wish list!

20 Amazing Young Adult Books Out Winter/Spring 2020

Lists, News and Fun, Young Adult/Teen 12-18, , , , , ,

Thank Goodness for Amazing Books

I’m not even going to try to spread sunshine on it, this year has been a rough one. However, one of the few great things that has happened is that I’ve read some incredible books. I feel like I usually find some gems here and there, but it definitely seems to me that there are more than usual that have made me say WOW these last few months. So with social distancing limiting book cons and trips to the bookstore, I am stepping up to share a few of my very favorites so far this year.

Today I’m focusing on young adult books, for readers 12 to 18. Don’t miss my middle grade book list, because there have been some fabulous titles there, too.

Note: Many of the buy links listed below are affiliate links, which help support this blog if you use them to shop. They do not cost you anything to use.

Best Young Adult Books of Spring 2020

The Archer at Dawn by Swathi Teerdhala

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “…Long-held secrets will force Kunal and Esha to reconsider their loyalties—to their country and to each other. Getting into the palace was the easy task; coming out together will be a battle for their lives.”

If you haven’t started this great series yet, hurry and catch up! I love the characters and relationships and the political intrigue.

What Unbreakable Looks Like by Kate McLaughlin

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “Kate McLaughlin’s What Unbreakable Looks Like is a gritty, ultimately hopeful novel about human trafficking through the lens of a girl who has escaped the life and learned to trust, not only others, but in herself.”

WHAT UNBREAKABLE LOOKS LIKE shows an incredible (at times perhaps unbelievable) transformation that belongs to Lex. While she has great support, this journey is about her, and her power to become the woman she wants to be. It’s an empowering story, packed with hope and courage.

A Forest of Souls by Lori M. Lee

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “Danger lurks within the roots of Forest of Souls, an epic, unrelenting tale of destiny and sisterhood, perfect for fans of Naomi Novik and Susan Dennard.”

I got caught up in the story world and in the layers and layers of intrigue. Also, there are CREEPY TREES. Like, the stuff of nightmares kinds of creepy. I’m usually not into that, and it definitely came right up to the edge of what I’m comfortable reading. But they also kept me turning pages and needing to know what would happen.

Take Me With You by Tara Altebrando

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “Do not tell anyone about the device. Never leave the device unattended.
And then, Take me with you . . . or else.”

Four students who barely know each other, bound together by this threatening device. I loved the suspense and way the situation impacted their relationships.

Again Again by E. Lockhart

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “A raw, funny story that will surprise you over and over, Again Again gives us an indelible heroine grappling with the terrible and wonderful problem of loving other people.”

I feel like AGAIN AGAIN delivered a thing that drew me to E. Lockhart’s writing in the first place. She has this uncanny ability to peel back the outer layers and cut straight to the core of emotions and grief and sort of reinvent the experience of reading a book

The Court of Miracles by Kester Grant

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “Les Misérables meets Six of Crows in this page-turning adventure as a young thief finds herself going head to head with leaders of Paris’s criminal underground in the wake of the French Revolution.”

COURT OF MIRACLES delivers a gritty cast of characters inspired by LES MIS and reminding readers of the power of sisterhood, loyalty, and courage.

Victoria Grace, the Jerkface by S. E. Clancy

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “Ever since Tori Weston and MamaBear were abandoned by her dad, finances have been tighter than a new pair of skinny jeans. As if keeping her grades up for scholarships and working every spare moment weren’t enough, Tori gets suckered into visiting a retirement home and paired with ancient resident Marigold Williams.”

A sweet, fun story about a cross-generational friendship and first love.

The Bone Thief by Breeana Shields

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “A deft exploration of the weight of grief and cost of revenge, Breeana Shields’s Bone Charmer duology reaches its spine-tingling conclusion in this high-octane fantasy-thriller.”

The choices that Saskia has to make are heartbreaking and I felt myself holding my breath so many times as she wrestles with which path to take and what the right thing truly is. Perfect for fans of SHADOW MAGIC by Joshua Khan.

The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “WHEN DIMPLE MET RISHI meets SIMON VS. THE HOMO SAPIENS AGENDA in this rom com about two teen girls with rival henna businesses.”

HENNA WARS was exactly the book I needed right when I read it. It’s funny and heartwarming (and at times, heartbreaking) and packed with the high of first love and the strength of a sister bond.

The Life and (Medieval) Times of Kit Sweetly by Jamie Pacton

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “Kit Sweetly slays sexism, bad bosses, and bad luck to become a knight at a medieval-themed restaurant.”

If you need an uplifting story that will make you laugh and warm your heart, just go get this book right now.

The Lucky Ones by Liz Lawson

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Goodreads

THE LUCKY ONES is a journey through grief. Some parts hit hard, landing some pretty sharp punches straight to your heart. Other parts can’t help but inspire hope. I think that was my favorite part– that though the story gets dark as May revisits what happened, there’s hope.

Readers who enjoyed WILD AND CROOKED by Leah Thomas or GLASS GIRL by Laura Anderson Kurk should check this one out.

We Didn’t Ask for This by Adi Alsaid

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “Every year, lock-in night changes lives. This year, it might just change the world.”

A wide cast of characters shows the impact of one girl’s decisions and their journey through an unforgettable school lock-in.

Music from Another World by Robin Talley

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “A master of award-winning queer historical fiction, New York Times bestselling author Robin Talley once again brings to life with heart and vivid detail an emotionally captivating story about the lives of two teen girls living in an age when just being yourself was an incredible act of bravery.”

I think fans of THE SCAR BOYS by Len Vlahos or I WANNA BE YOUR JOEY RAMONE by Stephanie Kuehnert would really enjoy the music scene in this book and its effect on the characters.

The Night of the Dragon by Julie Kagawa

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Goodreads

This is the fantastic conclusion to a high-energy series that I devoured in a little over a week.

It’s a great series for fantasy lovers and of course anyone who loves manga and anime. The story is full of amazing characters and a deeply immersive story world– which is probably something we all need right now!

Girls with Razor Hearts by Suzanne Young

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “It’s time to fight back in this second novel in a thrilling, subversive near future series from New York Times bestselling author Suzanne Young about a girls-only private high school that is far more than it appears to be.”

Throughout this story, Mena continues to be faced with situations that force her to choose between revenge and justice. Sometimes the choice is whether to trust the system of society and government versus taking justice or revenge into her own hands. I loved how deeply she considers each choice and how she explores the problem of evil in her experience. I found it deep and thought-provoking.

Havenfall by Sara Holland

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “A safe haven between four realms. The girl sworn to protect it — at any cost.”

I think readers who enjoyed THE IMMORTAL RULES by Julie Kagawa or ANGELFALL by Susan Ee should check out HAVENFALL.

The Sound of Stars by Alechia Dow

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Goodreads

From Goodreads: “Can a girl who risks her life for books and an alien who loves forbidden pop music work together to save humanity?”

Fans of THE 5TH WAVE by Rick Yancey or DEFY THE STARS by Claudia Gray will definitely want THE SOUND OF STARS on their reading lists!

The Night Spinner by Addie Thorley

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Goodreads

A clever, gender-flipped re-imagining of THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME.

I really enjoyed reading THE NIGHT SPINNER. I think fans of STRANGE THE DREAMER by Laini Taylor and GIRL OF FIRE AND THORNS by Rae Carson would enjoy the bold, broad fantasy world and emotionally complex characters.

It’s My Life by Stacie Ramey

Review | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Goodreads

Jenna battles her parents for the right to make her own medical decisions regarding procedures for her cerebral palsy. Her only solace is in the anonymous text messages she sends to her childhood crush, Julian.

Leave it to Stacie Ramey to create still more characters that I can’t help falling in love with. I really, really needed a solid, heartfelt contemporary book, and IT’S MY LIFE totally had me covered. I love Jenna’s awkwardness and her tendency to overthink things. I love her passion and her relationship with her mom.

Woven in Moonlight by Isabel Ibañez

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From Goodreads: “Ximena is the decoy Condesa, a stand-in for the last remaining Illustrian royal. Her people lost everything when the usurper, Atoc, used an ancient relic to summon ghosts and drive the Illustrians from La Ciudad. Now Ximena’s motivated by her insatiable thirst for revenge, and her rare ability to spin thread from moonlight.”

If you’re a fan of stories like Zorro or the Scarlet Pimpernel– put WOVEN IN MOONLIGHT on your list! I think it’s also a great pick for fans of fantasy like The Lumatere Chronicles by Melina Marchetta.

What books would you add to this list?

Have you read any young adult books you loved this year? What are some of the favorites from high school days that still stick with you today? Share the titles with me in the comments! I’d love to know if there are great titles I’ve missed.

26 Asian-Inspired Fantasy Books to Read While You Wait for Disney’s Mulan

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Disney’s Mulan… and the New Release Date

By now you’ve probably already heard the news that the release date for Disney’s Mulan is getting pushed back indefinitely. I’m so bummed about this! I don’t go to the movies all that often, but this one has been at the top of my must-see list.

So here’s a thing that I’m pretty embarrassed about: I grew up as a Disney girl, and Mulan is one of my favorite movies they’ve made, but it wasn’t until I started to hear buzz about a new live-action remake that I learned that Disney’s inspiration for the story of Mulan actually comes from a Chinese folk song from the North Wei Dynasty.

I shouldn’t have been surprised– Disney didn’t make up The Little Mermaid or Cinderella, either, you know? I guess I just never really thought about the origin of the story until I heard about the live-action remake and the controversy surrounding who was writing Mulan retellings– and whether white writers should be the ones telling this Asian-inspired fantasy story or whether it should be told by Chinese writers instead.

UPDATE: I wrote this post before the movie came out and before I learned of some of the controversy over its filming. It has been bothering me for a long time that I haven’t acknowledged that here. Here’s some information about why people have decided to boycott the movie because of the filming location and China’s treatment of Chinese Uighur Muslims.

So…. Perhaps instead of watching the movie, check out and buy these books inspired by Asian myth, folklore, and legend that were written by Asian authors.

Reading Asian-Inspired Fantasy by Asian Authors

All of that started me thinking about books by Asian authors and as I started reading, I began to fall in love with books inspired by Asian history, folklore, and mythology that are written by Asian authors.

The good news is this: there are some amazing books that, like Mulan, are inspired by Asian history and folklore and are just waiting for us to snatch them off the shelves and read them.

I’ve broken the list into two sections: series and stand-alone books. Check them out, let me know what you’ve read, and please tell me if I’ve missed any titles that should be included! I searched quite a bit before making my list, but I’m sure there are a few I’ve missed and I would love to add them.

Asian-Inspired Fantasy Series

Some of the series listed here (such as Shadow of the Fox) require you to read the books in order, but others (like The Star-Touched Queen) are much more loosely connected and allow you to read whatever appeals to you in whatever order. Check them out and see what meets your preferences. Also– for the books I’ve reviewed, you’ll find detailed content at the bottom of my review post, so be sure to click over to the review and look for that if it interests you.

Note: Many of the links below are affiliate links, which don’t cost you anything to use, but when used, help support this blog.

The Blood of Stars Series by Elizabeth Lim

Spin the Dawn

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Hailed as Mulan meets Project Runway. The series is also set in the Silk Road era and full of Chinese culture. It’s got magic, forbidden love, and unforgettable characters. One of my favorite books of 2019. Read my full review.

Unravel the Dusk

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Forbidden romance, political intrigue, magic gone awry. A girl touched by a demon and forced into an engagement with the emperor to keep the peace for her people. This is at the top of my To-Be-Read list.

The Girl King Series by Mimi Yu

The Girl King

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Two sisters with very different preferred weapons: one uses a sword, the other, words. Loads of political intrigue, battles, strong heroines. It’s beautiful. Read my full review.

The Empress of Flames

What you need to know: I’m pretty sure the release date for this book was originally early this year, but it’s since been pushed back to March of next year, which is super sad! I wanted to at least mention it in this list, since I’m really excited to read it. You can add it to your reading list and learn more on Goodreads.

The Tiger at Midnight Series by Swati Teerdhala

The Tiger at Midnight

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Inspired by Indian folklore. Friends to Enemies to Lovers. A female rebel assassin. Forbidden magic. Adorable romance. Read my full review.

The Archer at Dawn

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What you need to know: Rebels in disguise, political intrigue, and adorable romance. Just a warning, this one will make you really want to read book three! Read my full review.

Girls of Paper and Fire Series by Natasha Ngan

Note: I haven’t read this series yet, but I have heard the content needs some trigger warnings for sexual abuse, violence, and animal cruelty.

Girls of Paper and Fire

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What you need to know: F/F romance. Hope and recovery from trauma. Fierce girls refusing to accept a society that treats them as less-than. Beautifully rendered Asian mythology.

Girls of Storm and Shadow

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What you need to know: Explores themes about morality during war. Continues the journey of healing for women who’ve experienced trauma. Features strong, warrior women. F/F romance. Asian mythology.

Sands of Arawiya Series by Hafsa Faizal

We Hunt the Flame

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What you need to know: Described as a “richly detailed world inspired by ancient Arabia” on Goodreads. Enemies to lovers. Witty banter. Read my full review.

We Free the Stars

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What you need to know: Final book in the duology. Packed with magic, danger, and romance, and set in a lush landscape inspired by ancient Arabia.

The Star-Touched Queen Series by Roshani Chokshi

The Star-Touched Queen

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A cursed princess who turns out to be the only one who can save everyone. Steeped in Indian folklore and mythology. Total must-read. Read my full review.

A Crown of Wishes

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What you need to know: Less a sequel and more a companion novel. Filled with the same gorgeous writing and world-building as the Star-Touched Queen. Enemies to lovers. Witty banter. Filled with eerie mythological creatures. Read my full review.

Shadow of the Fox Series by Julie Kagawa

Shadow of the Fox

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Based on Japanese folklore. Enemies to lovers. Unlikely allies embarking on an impossible quest. Absolutely charming characters. Read my full review.

Soul of the Sword

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What you need to know: Japanese folklore. Fierce heroine. Terrifying villains. Witty banter. Forbidden love. Read my full review.

Night of the Dragon

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Read the other books in the series before this one– lots of it focuses on the final battle, so it won’t be as easy to follow or understand if you haven’t read earlier books. Based on Japanese mythology. Fierce heroine who never gives up and refuses to sacrifice her friends. Fantastic conclusion to an incredible series. Read my full review.

Gumiho Series by Kat Cho

Wicked Fox

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Based on Korean folklore but told in modern-day Seoul. An opposites-attract love story about a fierce girl and a cheery, charming boy. Fantastic grandma/grandson relationship.

Vicious Spirits

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What you need to know: Expected publication in August 2020. Promises new dangers and romance. Based on Korean folklore but told in a contemporary setting.

Rise of the Empress Series by Julie C. Dao

The Forest of a Thousand Lanterns by Julie C. Dao

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: A dark, Asian-inspired fantasy origin story of the Wicked Queen in the Snow White fairytale. Desperate, creepy magic. Compelling anti-heroine. Read my full review.

Kingdom of the Blazing Phoenix

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What you need to know: Asian-inspired retelling of Snow White. Lush world-building. A heroine with a good heart, committed to saving her friends.

Song of the Crimson Flower

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What you need to know: I’m not sure if this book is part of the series exactly– Goodreads lists it as book 2.5, so it takes place between the other two books and maybe more of a companion novel? Same beautiful Asian-inspired fantasy story-world.

The Dragon Warrior Series by Katie Zhao

The Dragon Warrior by Katie Zhao

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Think Percy Jackson, but with Chinese mythology. High energy, super fun. For readers 10 to 12. Read my full review.

The Fallen Hero

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What you need to know: The adventure continues in this fast-paced, wild ride featuring gods and goddesses from Chinese mythology. Read my full review.

Shamanborn Series by Lori M. Lee

Forest of Souls

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Features the creepiest trees you’ve ever read. Seriously spooky! Celebrates the bonds of sisterhood/friendship. Packed with fantastic banter and sarcasm. High energy plot that will keep you turning pages. Read my full review.

Books two and three are currently untitled, but expected to follow. I can’t wait!

Standalone Asian-Inspired Fantasy

Sometimes a series feels like a big commitment, especially when the books are so closely tied together that you can’t read one without reading the others first. These are two standalone novels inspired by Chinese history, culture and mythology that are a perfect choice for readers who aren’t up for the commitment of a whole series.

The Crystal Ribbon by Celeste Lim

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Coming-of-age story about a child bride in medieval China. Based on history, culture, and mythology. Haunting and unusual. Reminded me a little bit of the story of Mulan in that it features a a strong heroine in a time period and culture where she feels entirely out of place for her strength. Read my review.

Descendant of the Crane by Joan He

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Goodreads

What you need to know: Chinese-inspired fantasy. Features a strong heroine willing to risk everything in the pursuit of justice. Thrilling courtroom drama. Ends on a bit of a cliffhanger, but it’s uncertain whether there will be a follow-up novel.

The Candle and the Flame by Nafiza Azad

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indiebound | Goodreads

What you need to know: Set on the Silk Road and featuring Middle-Eastern mythology. Brilliant characters– especially the female characters. Might be better classified as new adult than young adult.

What are your favorite Asian-inspired fantasy books?

Have you read any of the books on the list? If you’ve thought of other Asian-inspired fantasy that I should add, please leave me a comment with the title and author. I would love to add to my list!