Caroline Huber '21 examines two young adult novels sure to keep you interested from the first page to the last.
Wonder Woman: Warbringer by Leigh Bardugo
Perhaps you remember, as a child, seeing the books that were so popular at a young age: the early reader books with your favorite superheroes, princesses, or animated characters at the heart of them all. Perhaps reading Leigh Bardugo’s new book, Wonder Woman: Warbringer, will bring back memories of those flimsy, brightly colored books of your youth. Unlike those branded pages, however, this book manages to work Wonder Woman into the plot as part of a larger story, whilst still prioritizing her character, but not as the singular plot device. From the beginning of the novel, we are treated to a strong female character that is aware of her own superiority, which, at times, is used as a comic device, leading to a few of the books most funny and empowering moments. Throughout the book, we are treated to a rarity in young adult novels: a girl that prioritizes her friendships and personal health over her feelings for the love interest. In fact, it’s very pleasant to see the romance be a side plot, rather then the main storyline. More important aspects of the book include the plot twists, which are unpredictable in the best sort of way. Instead of being like many YA novels, the plot doesn’t coast along without much fuel, but is instead jam-packed with action without seeming forced. In fact, Bardugo, who notably wrote the Shadow and Bone series and many spin offs, poignantly describes emotion without sounding forced. Together, with all of its wonderful elements, Wonder Woman: Warbringer is a book you won’t want to miss.
Verdict: Overall, Wonder Woman: Warbringer by Leigh Bardugo is a pleasant surprise with a fascinating plot and relatable characters and twists that you definitely won't expect.
King of the Screwups by K.L. Going
King of the Screwups by K.L. Going is aptly named. Indeed, the book does not disappoint, successfully chronicling a fair number of “screwups." The story is simple: a teenage boy with bad behavior issues and a successful father and a model mother, goes a step too far and is kicked out. He finds refuge with his uncle, who is described on the book flap as “a gay glam-rocker disc jockey,” though this is somewhat misleading, as, throughout the story, that description is proved to be clearly over exaggerated. However, there is some truth when it comes to the musical element, much to the chagrin of the narrator, Liam Geller, who is the embodiment of the title. As a study in family dynamics, the book dives deep into the way teens perceive others' perceptions of them and how negative commentary from people close to teens can make them do things they regret. Liam is not a character we are initially poised to like. In fact, the first pages begin with a flashback of Liam making a mistake that angers his father. It is very clear foreshadowing of what is to come. Throughout the novel, flashbacks show background for Liam, and it is clear that the reader is supposed to be building more trust for the character. Liam is reliable in how unreliable he is, and the reader, and supporting characters, must grapple with the fact that as imperfect as the teenage protagonist is, the adults in the novel have just as many flaws. All things considered, King of the Screw Ups is a good read if you’re looking for a young adult book about consequences and family dynamics.
Verdict: King of the Screwups focuses mainly on the flaws of teenage behavior with average prose and a large helping of family dynamics. The novel is not difficult to read but brushes lightly on hard topics.
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