Students used to have trouble finding new books and topics to explore, but now, with more recommendations available, they have easier access to interesting reading options. This is especially helpful over the summer, when students can choose books based on suggestions from others. As a result, they are more likely to stay engaged, enjoy reading, and continue learning even while school is out.

Whether you are looking for a pulse pounding thriller or a classic story that has stood the test of time, this curated list from the Edison Library has something for every reader.

Mystery

The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mysteries, puzzles, and unexpected twists. The story pulled me in right away, and I loved trying to solve the clues alongside Avery. While it’s full of suspense and excitement, it also touches on more serious themes like grief, family relationships, trust, and the effects of wealth and power.

Jennifer Lynn Barnes does a great job creating a fast-paced story with memorable characters and plenty of surprises. Every time I thought I had figured something out, there was another twist waiting. Overall, it’s a fun, addictive read that kept me guessing until the end, and I would definitely recommend it.

Review: A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mystery and suspense. The story follows Pip, a high school student who reopens a local murder case for a school project, only to discover that the truth is much more complicated than everyone believes. The book is full of twists that kept me guessing, and I was constantly changing my theories about what really happened. While it’s an exciting thriller, it also explores serious themes such as justice, reputation, grief, and the impact of assumptions on people’s lives. Holly Jackson does an amazing job building tension and creating a realistic investigation that feels like a true-crime documentary. Overall, it’s a fast-paced, gripping read that was hard to put down, and I highly recommend it.

Romance

Change of Plans by Sarah Dessen

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys heartfelt coming-of-age stories and realistic romance. The story follows Finley as she navigates family secrets, changing relationships, and an uncertain future during a summer that turns her life upside down. I enjoyed watching her grow more confident and independent as she learned who she was outside of other people’s expectations. While the book has a sweet romance, it also explores serious themes such as family conflict, identity, grief, and self-discovery. Sarah Dessen does a great job creating relatable characters and emotional moments that feel genuine. Overall, it is a thoughtful and uplifting read that shows how unexpected changes can sometimes lead to personal growth.

Fake Skating by Lynn Painter

I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy lighthearted romance, humor, and the fake-dating trope. The story  follows childhood friends Dani and Alec as they reconnect years after drifting apart and pretend to be a couple, only to discover that their feelings may be more real than they expected. Their chemistry and banter made the story fun and engaging from start to finish. Although the book is filled with romance and comedy, it also touches on more serious topics, such as divorce, family struggles, friendship, and forgiveness. Lynn Painter balances these deeper themes with plenty of heart and humor, making the characters feel authentic and easy to root for. Overall, it is a charming and enjoyable read that left me smiling and is perfect for fans of contemporary romance.

Fantasy 

Fearless by Lauren Roberts

I would recommend this book to fans of fantasy, romance, and high-stakes adventures. As the conclusion to the Powerless trilogy, the story is packed with action, suspense, and emotional moments as Paedyn and Kai face difficult choices that could change their futures forever. The tension between love and loyalty kept me invested throughout the story. While the book delivers plenty of excitement and magical conflict, it also explores serious themes such as sacrifice, trust, identity, and the consequences of one’s decisions. Lauren Roberts creates a compelling fantasy world and characters whose struggles feel meaningful. Overall, it is a satisfying and emotional finale that fantasy readers will enjoy.

Oathbound by Tracy Deonn

I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy fantasy with rich world-building and complex characters. Blending Arthurian legends, magic, and secret societies, the story follows Bree Matthews as she struggles with the weight of her powers and the choices she has made. The plot is full of mystery, action, and twists that kept me eager to see what would happen next. Beyond its fantasy elements, the novel explores serious themes such as identity, responsibility, grief, power, and belonging. Tracy Deonn does an excellent job creating a story that is both exciting and emotionally powerful, while also highlighting the importance of heritage and self-discovery. Overall, Oathbound is a captivating read that expands the Legendborn series in meaningful and unforgettable ways.

Movie adaptations

Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir

I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys science fiction, adventure, and stories that keep you thinking. The story follows Ryland Grace, a lone astronaut on a mission to save Earth from an extinction-level threat. As his memories slowly return, he must rely on science, creativity, and determination to solve an impossible problem. The plot is full of suspense, humor, and surprising moments that kept me engaged from beginning to end. While the novel is packed with fascinating scientific concepts, it also explores serious themes such as sacrifice, survival, friendship, and hope. Andy Weir does an excellent job balancing complex science with an exciting and emotional story. Overall, it is a thrilling and memorable read that I would highly recommend, especially for fans of science fiction.

Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins

I would recommend this book to both longtime fans of The Hunger Games and new readers who enjoy dystopian fiction. The story follows a young Haymitch Abernathy during the Fiftieth Hunger Games, offering a deeper look into one of the series’ most memorable characters. Knowing Haymitch’s future made his journey even more emotional, and the story kept me invested from start to finish. Like the other books in the series, this novel explores serious themes, such as power, injustice, sacrifice, and the human cost of violence. Suzanne Collins once again creates a gripping story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Overall, Sunrise on the Reaping is a powerful addition to The Hunger Games universe and a book I would definitely recommend.

The Classics: Literature Worth Knowing

1984 by George Orwell

I would recommend this book to anyone interested in dystopian fiction and thought-provoking stories about society and control. The novel follows Winston Smith as he lives under the constant surveillance of Big Brother in a world where truth is manipulated and individuality is punished. The story is unsettling but powerful, and it kept me thinking about how information and power can be controlled.

While it is a fictional story, it explores very serious themes such as government control, censorship, propaganda, and loss of freedom. George Orwell creates a haunting and believable world that still feels relevant today. Overall, 1984 is a classic that is both disturbing and eye-opening, and I would recommend it to readers who want a deeper, more meaningful reading experience.

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy meaningful stories about justice, morality, and growing up. The novel is told through the eyes of Scout Finch as she experiences life in the American South and witnesses a courtroom case that challenges her understanding of fairness and human behavior. The story is emotional, memorable, and easy to connect with. Although it is a coming-of-age story, it also deals with serious themes such as racism, injustice, empathy, and moral courage. Harper Lee tells the story in a way that is both simple and powerful, making its message accessible but impactful. Overall, To Kill a Mockingbird is a timeless classic that offers important lessons and is well worth reading.

From thrilling mysteries to heartfelt romances and timeless classics, this collection highlights the wide range of stories available to readers today. The Edison Library hopes these recommendations encourage students to explore new genres, stay curious, and continue building a love of reading beyond the classroom. 

Make sure to check out the Edison Reads that happened last month, our goal reaching 10,000 books.