It’s not easy being a teenager and it’s even hard to be a teenager known as the Death Prophet. Just ask Luke Hunter, who predicted the death of his friend Stan – right down to license plate of the van that runs him down. Confused and terrified, Luke can’t bear to face his own grief or the attention his freakish ability garners. Instead, he hides behind his loud music and an addiction to prescription medication. However, turning away from his family and friends doesn’t stop the premonitions. Luke is haunted by a vision of a missing, harassed by local media and a Christian fundamentalist group. He has a confusing new crush and his best friend is freaking out. Dumping the pills, but clinging to the music, Luke looks for answers, only to realize that he hasn’t asked the right questions.
Filled with musical references and lots of swearing, “Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet” will be very appealing to teens. The rhythm of the story is somewhat uneven, but feels right for the voice of a confused, emotionally strained teenage boy.
Recommended for ages 14+
Mia is not your typical 13-year old. For her, sounds have colors, even textures. For example, her cat Mango make a noise the same color as the fruit. Until now, Mia’s managed to hide her unusual sensitivity, but now she’s failing math and her colors are getting in the way. That’s when Mia learns she has a special condition called Synesthesia. Now Mia feels special, excited as learns more and more about her unique way of perceiving the world. She uses the internet to research synesthesia and connect with other people like her, people who are different. She withdraws from her old friends and her family until Mango is struck down with a sudden illness. Mia realizes that her condition is only part of who she is and growing up isn’t always about being special.
Frankie, known affectionately as Bunny to her family, is going back to school. Starting her sophomore at Alabaster Prep and now out of the shadow of her older sister, Frankie has a chance to shine. When she catches the eye of Matt, a popular senior, Frankie’s year is off to a dreamy start. But Frankie finds out that her new beau is a member of the all-male secret society “The Loyal Order of the Bassett Hounds” – a club her very own father (and successful school alumnus) tries to keep secret from her. Frustrated and feeling left-out, Frankie turns the tables on the Loyal Order and soon has them carrying out her orders, though they have no idea who she really is.
