May 2023 YA Book Releases

Finish the school year strong with these May 2023 YA book releases!

Hurt You by Marie Myung-Ok Lee

For teachers looking for a replacement or paired text for Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men.

This Korean American contemporary retelling of Of Mice and Men tells the story of a teenage girl trying to protect her neurodivergent older brother as their family searches out better access to services for him.

Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley

For students who like stories about justice or indigenous peoples.

I have been excited about this book since I heard the author describe it at the 2022 NCTE Convention as Tomb Raider but where the protagonist is recapturing stolen indigenous artifacts for her community. This book has a starred Kirkus review.

Money Out Loud by Berna Anat

For students who have money goals, jobs, dreams of business, or maybe just need a wake-up call about money. Anyone could read it, but she often addresses the barriers specific to people of color and speaks to the experiences of first-generation Americans.

Another one I have been looking forward to reading! Berna is a financial edutainer on Instagram/Tik Tok. I have no doubt that this book is written in her trademark informational (and hilarious) style. This book has a starred Kirkus review.

All The Dead Lie Down by Kyrie McCauley

Pair with Mexican Gothic and for a challenge, The Turn of the Screw and The Haunting of Hill House.

This is a gothic romance with a haunted house (my jam!). This book has a starred Kirkus review.

From Here by Luma Mufleh

For students who may be having a similar experience or want to understand an experience very different from their own.

A memoir of a gay Muslim woman who immigrates to the United States. As an adult, she founds a nonprofit. This book has a starred Kirkus review.

2023 Recommendations

Check out all by 2023 recommendations here.

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