Summer Reading List By Will Gravlin

 Top 4 Books/Series To Read This Summer

1 Legend series

    This dystopian series by Marie Lu is written in a very interesting way. Each chapter switches between two points of view. The story is told by the two main characters, Day and June. it takes place in a futuristic world where the Western United States has become the Republic.

    In "Legend," we meet Day, a wanted criminal who becomes a symbol of resistance against the Republic. June, a prodigy trained by the Republic's elite, is given the task with capturing Day but finds herself questioning the government's motives. As they uncover the truth behind the Republic's actions, they navigate a dangerous political landscape while dealing with their growing feelings for each other.

    The sequel, "Prodigy," dives deeper into their relationship as Day and June join forces with the rebel Patriots to overthrow the government. Loyalties are tested, sacrifices are made, and the true extent of the Republic's corruption is revealed.

    In the final book, "Champion," Day and June find themselves at the center of a power struggle that will determine the fate of their world. With the stakes higher than ever, they must confront their pasts and make difficult choices to secure a better future for themselves and their loved ones.

2 Hunger Games

    The Hunger Games is also a dystopian series based in a futuristic North America where civil war has split the continent into the capitol and the 13 colonies. together they make the country of Panem. It is narrated by the main character, Katniss Everdeen.

    In "The Hunger Games," the main character, Katniss Everdeen, a young woman from District 12, volunteers to take her sister's place in the Games. Alongside Peeta Mellark, the other tribute from her district, Katniss must find a way to survive both the capitol's high expectations as well as the deadly arena.

    The sequel, "Catching Fire," sees Katniss and Peeta thrust back into the Games as part of a special edition featuring past victors. As they struggle to survive, Katniss becomes a symbol of rebellion against the Capitol, igniting sparks of revolution across the districts.

    In the final book, "Mockingjay," the rebellion against the Capitol reaches its climax as Katniss becomes the face of the uprising. Amidst the chaos of war, she must confront her inner demons and make difficult choices that will determine the future of Panem.

3 Rebound and Crossover

    Rebound and Crossover, By Kwame Alexander are both realistic fiction books. Rebound is the prequel to Crossover and is from the point of view of the dad in Crossover, Chuck, as a kid. Crossover is about the experiences of Chuck's son, Josh Bell (aka Filthy Mcnasty).

    Rebound is set in the 1980s, the story unfolds as Charlie spends the summer with his grandparents in Washington, D.C. Through his struggle, Charlie finds an unexpected outlet for his emotions and talents: basketball. Through the sport, he begins to find purpose. He continuously finds himself loving the rhythm and discipline of the game. As he joins a local basketball team and practices tirelessly, Charlie not only improves his skills on the court but also starts to rebuild his shattered confidence and sense of identity. The people he meets in Washington DC help him find his purpose. From his supportive grandparents (although his grandpa can be seen as a rough person at times) to his teammates, each person leaves a mark on Charlie's life, allowing him to embrace his strengths.

    "The Crossover" introduces readers to twin brothers Josh and Jordan Bell, both talented basketball players with a close bond. They navigate life on and off the court, facing challenges like sibling rivalry, their father's strict coaching, and the complexities of adolescence. Tensions rise between the brothers as they fight for supremacy on the court, worsened by Jordan's new girlfriend and Josh's jealousy. Meanwhile, their father's health declines, revealing underlying family issues. The brothers' relationship becomes strained, affecting their performance and personal lives.

4 Booked

    Booked is also written by Kwame Alexander and although many consider it part of the rebound and crossover series, it is very different and deserves its own section. It is narrated by the main character, Nick Hall, a 12-year-old soccer enthusiast and wordsmith navigating the challenges of middle school. Nick deals with issues like friendship, family drama, and the complexities of his parents' relationship while pursuing his passion for soccer and poetry. When his parents' separation adds to his already troublesome life, Nick finds strength in his love for words and the support of friends, teachers, and family. While all this is going on it seems like nothing could possibly get worse and yet... it gets even worse as he suffers a major injury and can't play in his upcoming soccer tournament.