What books did you read in 2025? The Teen Services Staff read plenty of books and we chose our favorites. Not all the books we read were published in 2025, but they were all “new to us.” Why did we pick these books? Read on to find out.
Through Our Teeth by Pamela Harris This book immediately pulled me in; I was hooked from the very first page. Harris shines an unflinching light on mental health, domestic violence, complicated relationships/friendships, and the search for identity. The story is raw, compelling, and deeply human. I couldn’t put it down. – Cheyenne
A Constellation of Minor Bears by Jen Ferguson– Molly is a Métis teen from Canada who just graduated from high school. She undertakes a journey to find herself while hiking the brutal Pacific Crest Trail. She is joined by her brother Hank, who is recovering from a traumatic brain injury, and her best friend Tray, who has been in love with her his whole life. I enjoyed this book because of the Indigenous and plus size representation, the realistic coming of age story, and the friendships that were formed and tested throughout the book. – Jennifer
A Drifting Life by Yoshihiro Tatsumi A glimpse into the dawn of alternative manga! The “cartoonier” style of Tatsumi and his contemporaries has a peculiar juxtaposition with the hyper down to earth, bleak to some, nonetheless interesting, story. It feels truer to life than whatever flashy lights show contemporary readers are accustomed to. – Jesus
On Again, Awkward Again by Erin Entrada Kelly and Kwame M’Balia. Cecil and Pacey are 9th graders who have crushes on each other at first sight in this dual perspective, awkward love story. Unfortunately, their attempts to start a relationship are prevented by a surprise allergic reaction, a date at a bad restaurant, and even bad advice from well-meaning family and friends. This book made me laugh but also had heartfelt moments. Cecil and Pacey are both unique and funny and their family members are well-written too. It reminded me of my awkward high school days and like Pacey, I believe Star Trek: the Next Generation is the best Star Trek series. – Steven
The Marathon Don’t Stop: The Life and Times of Nipsey Hussle by Rob Kenner tells the story of a hip-hop mogul, artist, and activist whose motivational lyrics and visionary business ideas made him a symbol of persistence and community uplift. The reason I like this book and chose it is because of the storytelling, unpacking his humble beginnings, his ultimate achievements, and his victories. This includes his constant work to build up his community. It’s especially relevant for teens striving to take charge of their futures. Through Nipsey’s example, it delivers a core message: set goals, work persistently toward dreams, and use success to positively impact your community. – Yoonek
These books will be on display outside the Teen Room for the rest of this week (you can check out books that are on display). You can use your DKPL library card to check out physical copies of these and other Teen books. Many books can also be downloaded to your phone, tablet, or computer as e-books or audiobooks. Stop by the Teen Room with any questions or contact the Teen Services Staff at (815) 756-9568 ext. 2450 or by email at [email protected].