ICYMI: Scholastic's Releases from December 2014

I have full reviews for 21 Proms (because it's almost prom season) and The Killing Woods (because I loved Stolen) on the way, but I wanted to acknowledge two of Scholastic's December releases that I enjoyed as well, one for the boys and one for the girls. That's what I love about Scholastic books: they easily appeal to both genders, illustrating that everyone can be a hero/heroine no matter the situation. Scholastic is definitely a company that cares about showing readers diverse settings and dynamic characters.

Author: Trent Reedy
Release Date: December 30, 2014
Publisher & ARC: Scholastic
Ages: 14+

I reviewed another Reedy book recently (If You're Reading This), and I can honestly say that Trent Reedy is making a big splash in YA literature. While girls would definitely enjoy this book, it is geared more towards young men. Book one of an upcoming trilogy, Daniel Wright, 17, is doing his job at the Idaho National Guard when he is suddenly hit by a rock thrown from a protester. Accidentally engaging his gun, Daniel's actions cause widespread gunfire and deaths. Caught between the governor's protection and the President's orders, he must find a way to stay safe while the world around him begins its descent into chaos. Daniel's "good ole boy" charm and clever juxtaposition of turmoil and valor make for a fantastic trilogy opener.

Author: Sara B. Larson

Release Date: December 30, 2014

Publisher & ARC: Scholastic

Ages: 12+

Book two of Larson's "Defy" series, Alexa is a Katniss or Tris-type heroine who is severely scarred but has made a name for herself in King Damian's rule. A sword fighter in the battles of the first book, Alexa has a complicated relationship with Damian, and there's definitely some weird attraction there, so weird, in fact, that Alexa literally hurts when she is around him. A sort of "Beauty and the Beast" reversal, Alexa is blinded by love and fueled by vengeance when danger strikes the kingdom of Antion.  More riveting than the first book, I defy you to try to read this book in more than one sitting.