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Uglies (Uglies, #1)
Uglies (Uglies, #1)
Scott Westerfeld | 2005 | Science Fiction/Fantasy, Young Adult (YA)
8
7.6 (39 Ratings)
Book Rating
I really enjoyed this novel and am still a bit surprised that it still hasn't been made into a movie. I thought the concept was pretty creative, and this first novel in particular was well told.

On the other hand, I do feel that the series drops off a bit in the subsequent books. They all connect seamlessly, and the stories are all satisfying, just not as engaging as some of its contemporary YA novels.
  
Darius the Great is Not Okay
Darius the Great is Not Okay
Adib Khorram | 2018 | Young Adult (YA)
8
8.3 (3 Ratings)
Book Rating
YA contemporary
For the most part I really enjoyed Darius the Great is Not Ok by Adib Khorram. This young adult contemporary novel was heart wrenching and at times heart breaking to read. At times I felt like the main character Darius was a little over the top with how sensitive he was but for the most part I was rooting for him to rise up. This was a great story showing the struggles of living with depression while trying to find yourself and dealing with the teenage awkwardness of growing up. I completely felt for Darius and could relate to a lot of his struggles throughout the book, especially with trying to see where he fit in with his culture and being the only one standing awkwardly to the side not understanding the language of his heritage. I really loved all of the characters and learning about this culture and I would definitely recommend.
  
The Art of Escaping
The Art of Escaping
8
7.3 (4 Ratings)
Book Rating
Fast read
I really enjoyed The Art of Escaping by Erin Callahan a lot more than I thought I would. This novel was a super cute contemporary and a fast, fun read. I loved seeing the characters grow and develop as the story went on. The friendship that starts between Mattie and Will, and later with Frankie and Stella, is an inspiring relationship that most people can connect with and would love to have in their own lives. Together, they overcome their fears and come into their own, as well as helping the people around them grow and learn. The character of Miyu was probably my favorite, I loved her attitude and learning about her and her mom Akiko. I would love to read a whole book based off of these two characters, and to learn more about their relationship. Overall, I really enjoyed this ya contemporary story, and would definitely recommend for all ages.
  
555 by Ainjo
555 by Ainjo
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Album Rating
Ainjo is a singer-songwriter based in San Diego, California. Not too long ago, she released a chill contemporary R&B tune, entitled, “Toxic”, which is featured on her 5-track EP, entitled, “555”.

“What you wanna fuss and fight for? You can make ya way out the door. I don’t really understand why we keep on arguing. This is toxic you’re so hectic. I do not recommend this sh*t.” – lyrics

‘Toxic’ tells an interesting tale of a young woman who shares a very toxic relationship with her significant other.

Apparently, she’s unhappy because she’s tired of riding on the same emotional rollercoaster attached to their failing relationship.

‘Toxic’ contains a relatable storyline and ultra-sultry vocals. Also, the likable tune possesses laidback instrumentation flavored with contemporary R&B and neo-soul elements.

“My goal is to create songs people can relate to and turn on whenever they want to get into their feelings.” – Ainjo

Ainjo began her music career in 2017 when she released her debut single, entitled, “Cash Flaws”.

Her music inspirations influences include great artists such as Nina Simone, Amy Winehouse, and Eartha Kitt.

https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/ainjo-toxic/
  
Play With Me (Grover Beach Team, #1)
Play With Me (Grover Beach Team, #1)
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
I really liked this YA Contemporary Romance. It was sort of run-of-the-mill but I really liked it.

Ryan Hunter obviously had feelings for Lisa and used the opportunity presented to him to get to know her better by training her for the--what I know as football, but what American's know as soccer--team.

Of course it didn't all go to plan, as is the case with most romances. There is always something that goes wrong or a misunderstanding.

The style was really easy for me to get into and I read the full 200-odd pages within a few hours. It was right up my street and I can't wait to read Ryan Hunter, book 2 in the series and all from Ryan's POV.