Book Review: The Astonishing Color of After

"The Astonishing Color of After" by Emily X.R. Pan is not a light read. In the aftermath of her mother's suicide, Leigh is certain her mother embodies a beautiful red bird that is sometimes there, and sometimes not.

On top of that, Leigh meets her grandparents for the first time in Taiwan, and she isn't fluent in their language.

This book alternates between past and present, real and dream-like sequences, and a burgeoning romance that may or may not be real. The language is beautiful, with color saturating the pages.

Book Review: The Benefits of Being an Octopus

Author Ann Braden shows what it is like to live in poverty, and how being an octopus could make life a bit easier, in her stunning debut middle grade novel, "The Benefits of Being an Octopus."

Zoey is a seventh grader who doesn't have time for boys or even her homework sometimes, she has other things she has to do. Like take care of her three younger siblings while her mom works her shift at Pizza Pit. When her teacher suggests she join the debate club, the logistics seems impossible, and Zoey isn't as confident and capable as the other members. But it turns out that Zoey has a lot to say.

This is a poignant and important read about standing up for the ones you love, including yourself.