Review by Sweksha

December 14, 2020

Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson

“Fever 1793,” written by Laurie Halse Anderson, describes the events surrounding the yellow fever epidemic. The novel includes several plot twists that successfully convey history and engage readers. This novel takes place during the yellow fever epidemic that ravaged Philadelphia in the summer of 1793. The protagonist of this novel, 14-year-old Mattie Cook, learns to deal with the hardships brought on by this awful epidemic.

PRE-PUBLICATION Review of Advanced Reader Copy by Katie

Review date: December 2, 2020 - Publish date: March 2, 2021

Yolk by Mary H. K. Choi

Mary H.K. Choi’s “Yolk” opens with a warning of the book’s descriptions of disordered eating and body dysmorphia. The warning is written personally and tenderly, indicative of the entire book’s cathartic and human story. “Yolk” is a young adult novel that follows Jayne, a college student living in New York. It chronicles her life cracking open upon the revelation that her estranged sister, June, has cancer. The diagnosis chaotically brings them together, opening the floodgates of their relationship, Jayne’s view of herself and her world, and the ultimate totality of death and loss.

PRE-PUBLICATION Review of Advanced Reader Copy by Hiba

Review date: November 30, 2020 - Publish date: January 21, 2021

Your Corner Dark by Desmond Hall

Desmond Hall’s "Your Corner Dark" is an action-packed thriller following the story of a young man as he faces some of the most tragic events in his life.  I would give this book four stars for its intriguing plot and eye-opening setting that shows the actual situation of Jamaica.

The story begins by introducing the main character, Frankie, and showing the reality of his country, Jamaica.  Frankie has great dreams and plans to escape his poverty through his scholarship to the University of Arizona.  He has worked hard his entire life, so he could become an engineer in America.