Spring Break flew by and while I didn’t get nearly all the projects completed that I wanted to, I was able to read two great books and start a third. I’ve said it before, but I’m forever thankful for NetGalley and the opportunity to read new titles before they come out!

It’s Monday! What are you Reading? is hosted by Sheila at Book Journeys and invites bloggers to recap what they’ve read this week while planning ahead on what to read next! Jen at Teach Mentor Texts and Kellee at Unleashing Readers added their own twist by focusing on kidlit, from picture books up to YA.

Be sure to click on the covers for an in depth synopsis and others’ reviews

Saint Anything by Sarah Dessen

YA Contemporary Fiction, Release Date: 5/5/15
448 Pages
My Goodreads Rating: 5/5 Stars
A new Sarah Dessen book! I think this is my favorite book she has ever written, which is saying a lot because her books are all fantastic. Sydney’s older brother, Peyton, is facing serious consequences after his latest reckless behavior. Good girl and perfect daughter Sydney is once again forgotten amidst the chaos and decides to change schools to get a fresh start. Her mom continues to be obsessed with appearances while her son is in jail, while Sydney’s dad works all the time and goes along with whatever his wife says and does. After a trip to local Seaside Pizza, Sidney meets the Chatham family and things start to turn around. They show her kindness, friendship, and acceptance. I really got into this book and was surprised to learn that it is over 400 pages long. It sure didn’t feel like it! I love the characters in the book and I laughed out loud often. There are some really sweet and memorable scenes and I love the “family” theme in this book. This will definitely be a title I add to my classroom!

The Queen of Bright and Shiny Things by Ann Aguirre

YA Contemporary Fiction, Release Date: 4/7/15
336 Pages
My Goodreads Rating: 4/5 Stars
This is a book that I’ve seen ALL OVER twitter. The cover intrigued me and I’m so glad I was able to read it! Sage tries really hard to be perfect. Her past is a mystery and she doesn’t reveal too much to anyone. Her character is quirky and I love her voice in the book and her commitment for the environment, which definitely make for some funny scenes. Her love life is non existent, due in part to a complicated friendship with her best friend, Ryan, until the new boy Shane shows up and throws her for a loop. But Shane is trying to lay low and make it to graduation with no distractions. Little do they know that their lives will become intertwined, and while running from their pasts and outside influences, they will struggle to make a future for themselves. I hate giving away plots of books, so I hope I haven’t spoiled anything, but I did really enjoy this one. I think it will be really popular for teen readers and I’d love to see more from this author!