WOMBAT WAITING by Katherine Applegate

 

Fans of THE ONE AND ONLY IVAN and the rest of Katherine Applegate's books will want to get their hands on WOMBAT WAITING as soon as possible.

Everyone has their special someone and their special purpose in life. Wombat is a small dog looking for that purpose. Her search is complicated by the fact that she isn't always comfortable with humans. There is also the wildfire that has driven everyone from their homes with no idea when life will get back to normal, if ever.

With the help of what Wombat calls Voice, this shy dog learns what it means to be alone and be patient. Even when she thinks she may have found her special someone, it isn't as easy to connect as she thought it would be.

Inspired by the horrible fires in California, Katherine Applegate shows readers how to find their way in difficult times.

IN THE BLOOD by April Henry

Tessa was adopted as a newborn baby after her birth mother left her wrapped in a nightgown outside a fire station. She just turned eighteen and decided to use a DNA/Ancestry kit to see what she can learn about her biological parents.

She doesn't tell her adoptive parents about her search, but when information turns up that might indicate she is related to a notorious serial killer, her search may become well known.

April Henry's latest novel follows many characters and countless twists and turns. Fans will be fascinated by Tessa's story as she discovers her history.

 

BETWEEN PERFECT & REAL by Ray Stoeve

 

Dean is planning to try out for the school play, Romeo & Juliet. As a senior this year, she is hoping to score a lead role, but what will no doubt surprise everyone is she is trying out for Romeo.

When she actually gets the part, she begins to realize as she assumes the role, that this is who she really is. Dean recognizes that his pronouns are he/him, and he is transgender. Everyone has accepted him as a lesbian, but that really isn't who he is. Will they be able to accept the real, true him?

Zoe, who has considered Dean as her girlfriend, seems to accept that Dean is trans, however, their relationship feels strained. She finally admits that she doesn't want a "boyfriend." Where does that leave Dean?

Author Ray Stoeve takes readers into the mind and emotions of a young person in transition. There are so many questions, some supportive peers, but many obstacles and hurdles to overcome. Stoeve's clear and direct prose make Dean's experience an important read for anyone wanting to truly see and understand the trans experience.