Cristy Watson Libri

Cody and his friends embark on a seemingly harmless challenge from a local gang to steal a park bench, initially driven by the thrill of the adventure. However, as the situation escalates, they realize the gravity of their actions and the dangerous implications of their involvement with the gang. Cody faces the dilemma of risking his future opportunities while navigating the perilous path of loyalty and consequence, leading to a tense exploration of friendship and the costs of youthful recklessness.

Struggling with the repercussions of his time in juvenile detention, a teenager grapples with feelings of isolation and uncertainty about his future. As he attempts to reintegrate into society, he confronts the challenges of overcoming his past and building meaningful connections. The narrative explores themes of redemption, resilience, and the quest for identity, highlighting the difficulties faced by those trying to reclaim their lives after incarceration.

The story follows Poe, a seemingly typical teenager navigating school life, friendships, and family dynamics. However, he harbors a significant secret that creates a constant sense of anxiety as he fears its exposure. His interactions with peers and moments of vulnerability highlight the tension between his everyday experiences and the hidden truth he carries. The narrative explores themes of identity, secrecy, and the challenges of adolescence, as Poe grapples with the potential consequences of being discovered.

Travis yearns for a simple, fulfilling existence amidst the chaos of life. His journey explores themes of desire, contentment, and the pursuit of happiness, as he navigates relationships and personal challenges. The narrative delves into the complexities of finding joy in everyday moments, offering a poignant reflection on what it truly means to live fully. Through Travis's experiences, readers are invited to consider their own aspirations for a meaningful life.

The story follows fourteen-year-old Randi as she navigates the challenges of balancing her passion for theater studies with her responsibilities as a caregiver for her autistic brother. This engaging novel highlights themes of family, personal growth, and the pursuit of dreams, offering a relatable and heartfelt glimpse into Randi's life as she strives to find harmony between her aspirations and her duties.

The narrative explores the aftermath of a traumatic sexual assault experienced by three teenagers from a diverse neighborhood, highlighting the devastating effects when photos of the incident circulate online. It addresses complex themes such as teen relationships, the pervasive nature of rape culture, and the amplifying role of social media in shaping perceptions and consequences. The story is both gritty and realistic, offering a poignant look at the struggles faced by the characters in the wake of their trauma.

Fourteen-year-old Roonie loves hip-hop almost as much as she loves her grandmother. Roonie cannot wait to compete in her school's dance competition. But as her grandmother's health deteriorates, Roonie becomes more and more reluctant to visit her in the care home. These feelings of guilt and frustration cause Roonie to mess things up with her hip-hop dance partner and best friend, Kira. But while doing some volunteer hours in the hospital geriatric ward, Roonie meets an active senior recovering from a bad fall. Their shared love of dance and the woman's zest for life help Roonie face her fears, make amends with Kira and reconnect with Gram before it's too late.