Study Break

January 15, 2023
Told through 11 chronological stories, this anthology invites readers on a journey through the college experience, with contributions from new voices and YA favorites like Camryn Garrett and Jake Maia Arlow. Jewish, genderqueer Fray of Arlow's "Shofar, So Good" and the Seattle-area Desi protagonist of "Rani's Resolutions" by Avachat find the courage to pursue their passions despite fears of negative parental reactions. Mandarin-speaking Emma Zheng and queer Val Wu of Christina Li's "Begin Again" and Ruby, a Black girl questioning her major, her sexuality, and so much more in Garrett's eponymous story learn the power of accepting change and living in the present, even when the future seems uncertain. A stuffed animal caper inspires an eye-opening spring break road trip as best friends Sophie Zhao, a Malaysian international student, and Eliza Young, a White American, get honest about their feelings for each other in Boon Carmen's "Momo's Epic Rescue." While some of the stories are more memorable than others, they all convey the heart and vulnerability inherent to this potential-filled time in young people's lives. The tales, all set on the fictional University of Milbridge campus, flow well, and subtle overlaps add detail and richness to the setting. The collection features a cast of characters from a wide range of ethnic and racial backgrounds as well as varied sexual orientations and gender identities. An inclusive, cohesive collection of stories in a locale often overlooked in books for teen readers: the college campus. (college advice) (Anthology. 14-18)

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June 16, 2023

Gr 11 Up-This is an appealing short story collection for college-bound juniors and seniors looking for a taste of what the experience might be like. The authors are from Generation Z, just a few years removed; who better to telegraph the nuances of academic life and newfound independence? In tales that move from fall to spring semester in chronological months, each author pens a story of college life. While some are about partying and relationship drama, others are explorations of choosing a major and identifying a religious affiliation on campus regardless of what their mother thinks. With these four examples, the range is as wide as the authors had creativity to share. Mentioned in the opening, the collection was born from a need for more representative teen fiction set in college. It delivers. The stylistic format of semesters and months replicates the rollercoaster of college emotions: nervousness at freshman orientation to graduation elation. No single story stands out because they are all evenly matched in tone to the atmosphere of the anthology, a testament to each author's individual strengths. The identity and experiences of both the authors and their characters are diverse. VERDICT If the purpose was to provide more college-age voices in teen literature, consider it done. Readers will look forward to more works by these authors and new endeavors in this age and experience category. A worthy purchase.-Alicia Abdul

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