KARA JANE

Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo is about two teenage girls, Camino and Yahaira, who live in different worlds—Camino in the Dominican Republic and Yahaira in New York City. They don’t know about each other until their dad dies in a plane crash, revealing a big family secret: he had been living a double life. As the girls deal with their grief, they learn about each other and their complicated family situation. The story touches on themes like family, identity, and loss, all told through powerful verse. My review: This book isn’t my usual style since it’s written in verse, but I loved it — it’s definitely a style I’d now consider for future reads. The story and themes really pulled me in that included grief and loss, cultural background, complexity of families and betrayal - I would recommend it. The verse format makes it a quick and engaging read.

Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi is the first book in a series of short stories set in a small Tokyo café where customers can travel back in time, but only under strict rules: they must sit in a specific seat, can’t change the present, and must return before their coffee gets cold. The novel follows four characters who revisit pivotal moments with loved ones to seek closure, make amends, or express unspoken feelings. Through these emotional journeys, the story explores themes of love, regret, and acceptance, highlighting the significance of embracing the present. My review: What I love about this book is its focus on acceptance rather than rewriting history. Kawaguchi’s writing is straightforward yet deeply moving, and it really captures the messy emotions of love, loss, and regret. It’s a great reminder that even though we can’t change our past, we can still learn from it and move forward. If you’re looking for a heartfelt story about human connection and finding p...

My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell is an intense and gripping novel that delves into the murky waters of power dynamics and manipulation. The story revolves around Vanessa Wye, who, at the age of 15, becomes involved with her much older teacher, Jacob Strane. The novel shifts between the past and present, revealing how this relationship has impacted Vanessa’s life. My review: This novel isn’t an easy read, but it’s a powerful one. It forces you to think deeply about the nature of consent and the long-lasting effects of manipulation and abuse. My Dark Vanessa is a story that will stay with you, sparking conversation and reflection long after you’ve finished reading. It’s a challenging, thought-provoking book that’s well worth the read.

“In an Instant” by Suzanne Redfearn explores the intense journey of a family grappling with the aftermath of a devastating car accident. The novel zeroes in on the mother and teenage daughter who face significant physical and emotional hurdles as they attempt to rebuild their lives. Through their struggles and triumphs, the story delves into themes of personal growth, resilience, and the enduring strength of family bonds. It’s a moving exploration of how they adapt to their changed reality and find hope amidst their challenges. My review: This book is a powerful and emotional read that deeply immerses you in the characters’ highs and lows. The well-developed characters make their experiences feel incredibly authentic and relatable, drawing you into their journey of healing. “In an Instant” is a heartfelt exploration of family bonds and personal strength that lingered with me long after I finished it. I discovered it during a sleepless night, and it was so captivating that I stayed up...