Teen Books recommended by Teen Librarian Eliana Luke
The House of the Scorpion by Nancy Farmer
The House of the Scorpion is the first of a gripping dystopian duology. Matteo is a clone of El Patrón, the leader of a country named Opium- full of poppy fields used to make the illicit drug. Matteo began life in a petri dish, then in the womb of a cow. He is treated poorly by all, with the exception of El Patrón who treats him like a son. As he grows up, Matteo learns about himself, and the true purpose for his existence. Revealed in a sinister twist, his relationship with El Patrón is not what he thought it was. Great for fans of Unwind by Neal Shusterman.
Check out this title on Libby as an ebook and audiobook
Muhammad Najem, War Reporter by Muhammad Najem and Nora Neus, Illustrated by Julie Robine
Muhammad Najem, War Reporter follows a young man equipped with a smartphone, whose age and style as a reporter garnered international attention. Muhammad used social media to bring attention to the affects of war in Syria, especially on children. The graphic novel format makes the story even more gripping with its colorful illustrations. Read and be moved by Muhammad’s story, told by the young reporter.
One Piece by Eiichiro Oda
One Piece is a long-running fantasy manga about a pirate named Monkey D. Luffy exploring the seas in search of the legendary One Piece— the greatest treasure in the world. Whoever finds it is said to become the next Pirate King and the freest person in the world. Its worldbuilding, character work, and action are fantastic.