Most of the time, this space is dedicated to encouraging literacy practices to support students' academics and foundations for learning. But we'd like to make space for reading just for the fun and enjoyment. If we've learned anything in the decade that was the last 18 months, it's that we don't need to turn everything into something purposeful. It's not only ok to just enjoy activities without a particular goal in mind, it can be renewing to allow our brains to do a little relaxing.

In the spirit of making space to relax and renew, we'll be showcasing some just for fun reads. This week, we're looking at young adult titles. These are stories that have been enjoying top ratings from reviewers across the interwebs lately. As always, if you're logged into the browser based player, click on the cover art or title to start your story right now. Happy listening!

Rise to the Sun by Leah Johnson

Instagram user, @aliciaclarereads says: 

"Wow oh wow am I grateful for Leah Johnson and the space she occupies in the YA community. Her sophomore novel once again drags characters who are often pushed into the wings and places them properly in the center stage under a moving spotlight." See her post here.

The Girl From the Sea by Molly Knoz Osterlag

Instagram user, @rhistr8 says:

"Made for a lovely read by the pool. 10/10 recommend near a body of water or not." See Rhiannon's post here.

A Mango Shaped Space by Wendy Mass

Cosmopolitan says:

"A colorful, imaginative story that will tickle the senses. No, literally it's about growing up with synesthesia, a mingling of the senses." 

Prelude for Lost Souls by Helen Dunbar

Kirkus Reviews calls it "a quietly compelling story."

These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong

An Amazon user calls it, "a bonkers thrill ride filled with heart and vengeance and unflappable flappers and I loved every bit of it."

Magic Dark and Strange by Kelly Powell

An Audible listener says, "This book was cute! It had a bit of mystery, a slow, friends to lovers romance and a great friendship."

Illusionary (Sequel to Incendiary) by Zoraida Córdova

A Goodreads reviewer says, "Romance, action, self-discovery, found family, twists and turns....Illusionary has it all in spades and is a really strong conclusion to the duology."

Tiger, Meet My Sister... and Other Things I Probably Shouldn't Have Said by Rick Reilly

Goodreads reviewer, Paul, says, "what makes this book most worthwhile is one thing: at the end of every column, there is a postscript about what has transpired since the column was written."

Steel Dragon 4 by Kevin McLaughlin, Michael Anderle

Goodreads reviewer, Sandy Chapman says, "So much action I couldn't put it down! Best book yet in this unique series."

Memphis Mayhem: A Story of the Music That Shook Up the World by David A. Less

Goodreads reviewer, Ben Schwind says, "a great overview of the major musical movements in Memphis and why it's such an important city to the history of American music."

Magic Bound by Theresa Kay

Goodreads reviewer, Kay says, "Magic Bound was heartwarming, addictive and completely mesmerized me."

Identity by Camille Peters

The author herself says, "I know authors aren’t supposed to have favorite book children, but this book is currently mine (shh, don’t tell the others)."

Ghosting You by Alexander C. Eberhart

Goodreads reviewer, Layla says, "All the feels… grief, sadness, sweetness, hope, love, healing and more."

Looking for more titles for teens? Look no further! Just click here.