Contemporary Novel Recommendations

Mr. Penumbra’s 24 Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan

 Romantic subplot: Yes.

 Humor: YES.

Moving: Yes.

Sad parts: Sometimes.

 Mystery: Yes.

Summary: The novel follows a man in his early twenties as he seeks employment in future San Francisco. He discovers a 24-hour bookstore that is more than it appears to be. The novel is humorous and meaningful with vibrant characters and a fast-paced, twisting plot. It displays the relationship between technology and books through a story that is reminiscent of classic magical adventures like Harry Potter.

Rating: 4.5/5. For anyone.



A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness

 Romantic subplot: No.

Humor: Some.

 Moving: YES.

Sad parts: YES.

 Mystery: No.

Summary: The novel follows a thirteen-year-old boy named Conor whose mother is dying of cancer. However, in the midst of all his pain, he finds a monster who may be able to help him - or very well destroy him. A touching and heartfelt story that made me cry several times. If you’re looking for something darker that bores into the heart of human nature, pick this one up. It contains magical realism which is portrayed with an accurate teenage voice and beautiful, fairytale-like prose.

 Rating: 4/5. For anyone.



The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

 Romantic subplot: Sort of.

Humor: YES.

Moving: Yes.

Sad parts: Yes.

Mystery: No.

Summary: The Catcher in the Rye follows teenager Holden Caulfield as he wanders around New York to avoid telling his parents he’s been expelled from another prep school. Generally, this book is either loved or hated and the protagonist is either endearing or annoying. Personally, I found Holden’s exploits hilarious and wildly interesting due to the masterful, creative, and realistic voice Salinger constructed for his protagonist. Recommended as a funny, insightful novel that made me consider life while making me laugh.

 Rating: 4/5. For anyone.



Code of Silence by Tim Shoemaker

 Romantic subplot: No.

Humor: Yes.

 Moving: Not particularly.

 Sad parts: Some.

Mystery: YES.

 Summary: This book follows three middle-school-aged kids who witness a robbery and know too much. As they struggle to keep what they know a secret, they discover what the cost of silence really is. Definitely exciting with accurately portrayed teenage characters. Recommended for anyone looking for something fun and tense.

 Rating: 3.5/5. For anybody, but recommended for middle-graders or high schoolers.



The Schwa Was Here by Neal Shusterman

 Romantic subplot: Yes.

Humor: YES.

 Moving: YES.

Sad parts: YES.

Mystery: Yes.

Summary: The Schwa is a teen who is naturally unnoticeable, and so the main character, a high school kid called Antsy, tries to find out why. This book’s plot is a roller coaster that makes readers laugh, cry, blush, and yell. The main character’s voice is hilarious, as are the other characters’, and his insights add meaning and depth to the work. The sad parts highlight the book’s meaning, and I recommend it for anyone looking for a pick-me-up.

Rating: 5/5. For anybody, but recommended for middle-graders or high schoolers.

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