Hi, David and Jennifer! Can you tell our readers a bit about yourselves?

JN:  Take Me With You When You Go is my eleventh book. My first two books were actually nonfiction accounts of Arctic expeditions, one from 1913, the other from 1921. I also wrote a memoir and a series of historical novels for adults about a girl named Velva Jean Hart who becomes a WASP and a spy in World War II. All the Bright Places was my first young adult book, and I co-wrote the script for the Netflix film version. When I’m not writing, I’m reading, dancing, rescuing cats, wandering Paris with my husband, and fangirling.

DL:  I am basically reading and listening to music all the time.  To date, not a single person has ever employed me to listen to music.  BUT I was lucky to get a job as an editor, allowing me to read . . . professionally.  So I work with other people’s words during the day, then at night (or, really, on weekends) I write my own books. Sometimes I write them alone. And sometimes, like now, I write them with a friend.

Quick lightning round! Tell us the first book you ever remember reading, the one that made you want to become an author, and one that you can’t stop thinking about!

JN: Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, All of Judy Blume’s books, and Conversations with Friends by Sally Rooney

DL: Don’t Talk to Strangers, Cynthia Voigt’s Homecoming, and M. T. Anderson’s Feed

Take Me With You When You Go is out now! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?

JN: A brother-sister dramedy with heart. Alternately: Honest. Heartbreaking. Heart-filling. Funny. Hopeful.

DL: Let’s make our way through.

What can readers expect?

JN: Even though we never knew what the other was going to do, it was important to us to write from our hearts with honesty and care about the struggles Ezra and Bea were facing. This is definitely something that we’ve done in our other books, and the main reason for that is that we are passionate about reminding readers that they are seen and that they are not alone.

DL: The book is about a gay boy who wakes up one morning and finds that his sister has run away.  They do not come from a happy home – so while she is out in the world, trying to figure out her way and untangle the past, he’s left at home to deal with all of the repercussions.  Ezra doesn’t know where Bea is, or why she chose that particular day to leave. And Bea isn’t sure what life away from home will bring.  So there’s a lot of uncertainty. But it’s also about making your way toward the life you want instead of being caught in the life you’ve been given.

How did Take Me With You When You Go come about?

JN: A reader asked me on Twitter who I would most like to write a book with and I said David Levithan. He happened to see my tweet, and one week later he sent me Ezra’s first chapter of the book and the message: Be careful what you wish for…

DL: Even though I’d written with many other friends before, I’d never tried to write an epistolary novel before – even though it seems like the most obvious form for collaboration!  Because Jennifer and I didn’t really know each other well, even though we’d gotten along instantly, I knew that there would be more uncertainty between us than usual, so I decided to give us a premise where everything was unclear at the start – and then together we filled in the blanks, with Jennifer often surprising me immensely.

Can you tell us about any challenges you both faced while writing and how you were able to overcome them?

JN: When we first started writing the book, David and I both very involved in other projects, so Take Me With You When You Go was something we did when we had extra time. This often meant it took one of us weeks or months to get our next chapter(s) to the other. One of the great things about our particular process here—not discussing the plot or characters with each other— was that everything was just more reactive. So I never had time to overthink anything, which can sometimes slow me down and can get in my way. I just wrote whatever came out. I’m going to try to apply this to my solo writing from now on because it’s really freeing!

DL: Our writing schedules were almost ridiculously out of synch – I’d finish a solo novel and say, “Ready to go!” . . . and Jennifer would have just immersed herself in her own solo novel.  But, as she says, it was a very easy book to return to, and I actually think the years we spent writing it got us to feel deeper into the characters than we would have if we’d written it at lightning speed.

Were there any favourite moments or characters you really enjoyed writing or exploring?

JN: I loved writing Bea. She and I are so different, and writing her was a challenge (in a great way). Because David and wrote the book without discussing the plot and without knowing what the other was going to do, I loved the moments when we really surprised each other. As in big twists and scenes that came as a complete shock to the other!

DL: I genuinely can’t think of a single answer to this question that wouldn’t be a spoiler to the reader! 

What’s next for you both?

JN: I’m at work on my next solo YA novel and am finishing writing the script for the Holding Up the Universe movie.

DL: I’ll have two books coming out in 2022.  One of them hasn’t been announced yet, and the other is the graphic novel adaptation of Every Day.  It is being illustrated by Dion MBD – and he’s doing an extraordinary job of bringing it to life in that form.

Lastly, do you have any book recommendations for our readers?

JN: People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry. In the Wild Light by Jeff Zentner. East Coast Girls by Kerry Kletter. When the Stars Lead to You by Ronni Davis. Anything But Fine by Tobias Madden.

DL: Kaleidoscope by Brian Selznick, Things We Couldn’t Say by Jay Coles, Remedy by Eireann Corrigan, The Bridge by Bill Konigsberg, Loveless by Alice Oseman – I’m biased, because these are some of the YA I edited this year.  But they’re all fantastic.

Will you be picking up Take Me With You When You Go? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Q&A: David Levithan and Jennifer Niven, Co-Authors of ‘Take Me With You When You Go’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

With a new (and hopefully better) year now in full swing, we are antsy to get our hands on so many books! Middle grade novels are upping their already strong game in 2021 with a plethora of diverse and inclusive plots. From thrilling sequels by household names such as Victoria Schwab and Hena Khan, to promising debut authors like Nicole Lesperance and Alyssa Colman, 2021 looks like a promising year for middle-grade novel lovers.

Want more 2021 releases? Check out our lists for Most Anticipated 2021 Books, 2021 Queer Book Releases, 2021 Fantasy & Sci-Fi Book Releases, 2021 Romance Book Releases, 2021 YA Book Releases, and 2021 Queer SFF Book Releases.

Read on to discover the out-of-this-world novels that are heading your (or your kids’) way in 2021!

JANUARY

The Nightmare Thief by Nicole Lesperance
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In the tradition of Natalie Lloyd and Ingrid Law comes a whimsical debut about a girl, her family’s dream shop, and a nightmare thief determined to change the course of her life as she knows it.

Amari and the Night Brothers by B.B. Alston
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Artemis Fowl meets Men in Black in this exhilarating debut middle grade fantasy, the first in a trilogy filled with #blackgirlmagic, about a young girl who must earn a spot at the Bureau of Supernatural Affairs in order to find her missing brother—only to discover that her unprecedented levels of potential and power have marked her as a suspect in the ongoing fight against an evil magical threat.

The Sea in Winter by Christine Day
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this evocative and heartwarming novel for readers who loved The Thing About Jellyfish, the author of I Can Make This Promise tells the story of a Native American girl struggling to find her joy again.

Clues to the Universe by Christina Li
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

This #ownvoices debut about losing and finding family, forging unlikely friendships, and searching for answers to big questions will resonate with fans of Erin Entrada Kelly and Rebecca Stead.

Unplugged by Gordon Korman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From New York Times bestselling author Gordon Korman comes a hilarious middle grade novel about a group of kids forced to “unplug” at a wellness camp—where they instead find intrigue, adventure, and a whole lot of chaos. Perfect for fans of Korman’s The Unteachables, the Masterminds series, and Carl Hiaasen’s eco mysteries.

Magic’s Most Wanted by Tyler Whitesides
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Magic is closer than you ever thought possible in this madcap middle grade adventure perfect for fans of James Riley and Chris Grabenstein.

FEBRUARY 

Red, White and Whole by Rajani LaRocca
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A heartbreakingly hopeful #ownvoices novel in verse about an Indian American girl whose life is turned upside down when her mother is diagnosed with leukemia.

The Greatest Superpower by Alex Sanchez
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Fans of Alex Sanchez, the award-winning author of Rainbow Boys and the Lambda Award-winning novel So Hard to Say, will delight in his new middle-grade novel, which addresses the complexities of gender identity with honesty, humor, and heart. Readers will be encouraged to find their own superpowers thanks to Sanchez’s story, which gives face to a traditionally invisible minority and focuses on what it means to be yourself.

Ancestor Approved ed. By Cynthia Leitich Smith 
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Edited by award-winning and bestselling author Cynthia Leitich Smith, this collection of intersecting stories by both new and veteran Native writers bursts with hope, joy, resilience, the strength of community, and Native pride.

The Hatmakers by Tamzin Merchant
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An enchanting fantasy adventure about the importance of bravery, resourcefulness, and following your heart from a debut author.

The Deepest Breath by Meg Grehan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An accessible and beautifully written middle grade novel-in-verse by award-winning Irish author Meg Grehan about Stevie, a young girl reckoning with anxiety about the many things she has yet to understand—including her feelings about her friend Chloe. Perfect for fans of Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World, Star Crossed, and George.

The Mysterious Disappearance of Aidan S. (as Told by His Brother) by David Levithan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

New York Times bestselling author David Levithan takes young readers on twisting journey through truth, reality, and fantasy and belief.

MARCH

Bridge of Souls by Victoria Schwab
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Cassidy Blake takes on her most dangerous challenge yet in the latest book in this New York Times bestselling series.

The Accidental Apprentice by Amanda Foody
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A boy who accidentally bonds with a magical Beast must set off on an adventure in the mysterious Woods in this whimsical and cheeky middle grade fantasy debut that is perfect for fans of Nevermoor and How to Train Your Dragon.

Amina’s Song by Hena Khan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In the companion novel to the beloved and award-winning Amina’s Voice, Amina once again uses her voice to bridge the places, people, and communities she loves – this time across continents.

Breathing Underwater by Sarah Allen
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Breathing Underwater is a sparkly, moving middle grade novel from the author of What Stars Are Made of, and a big-hearted exploration of sisterhood, dreams, and what it means to be there for someone you love.

The House that Wasn’t There by Elana K. Arnold
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

National Book Award finalist and Printz Honoree Elana K. Arnold returns with a powerful, heartwarming, unforgettable story of the mysterious ways in which we’re all connected, and what those connections mean. 

The Girl Who Stole the Elephant by Nizrana Farook
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Own Voices debut author Nizrana Farook spins an exciting, page-turning tale in a lush, vibrant, fictional Sri Lankan setting and featuring themes of friendship and loyalty, risk and reward, and heroism. A great middle-grade escapist novel and readaloud! 

APRIL

Cece Rios and the Desert of Souls by Kaela Rivera
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

When a powerful desert spirit kidnaps her sister, Cece Rios must learn forbidden magic to get her back in this #ownvoices middle grade fantasy debut perfect for fans of Storm Runner and Aru Shah and the End of Time.

The Last Windwitch by Jennifer Adam
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

This delightfully classic middle grade fantasy debut, perfect for fans of Serafina and the Black Cloak and The Book of Boy, follows an unlikely young witch as she discovers that she is the key to saving her kingdom.

Sea of Kings by Melissa Hope
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

When their island kingdom falls under siege, royal brothers Noa and Dagan must follow a magical map and confront the legendary one-eyed pirate before evil takes over their world.

The Gilded Girl by Alyssa Colman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Any child can spark magic, but only the elite are allowed to kindle it. Those denied access to the secrets of the kindling ritual will see their magic snuffed out before their thirteenth birthday. Heartfelt, fast-paced, and utterly absorbing, The Gilded Girl is Alyssa Colman’s sparkling debut novel about determination, spirit, and the magic of friendship.

The Last Shadow Warrior by Sam Subity
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Percy Jackson meets Thor in a laugh-out-loud, action-packed adventure inspired by Norse mythology.

Thornlight by Claire LeGrand
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Resourceful twin sisters and a desperate queen must find a new source of magic to stop their kingdom from being consumed by darkness. This classic fantasy-adventure from bestselling author Claire Legrand is full of twists, turns, and unforgettable moments. Thornlight is a must-have for fans of Tahereh Mafi and Diana Wynne Jones.

MAY

Hazel Bly and the Deep Blue Sea by Ashley Herring Blake
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

For fans of Erin Entrada Kelly and Ali Benjamin comes a poignant yet hopeful novel about a girl navigating grief, trauma, and friendship, from the award-winning author of Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World.

The Shape of Thunder by Jasmine Warga
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An extraordinary new novel from the Newbery Honor–winning author of Other Words for Home about grief, loss—and how friendship can be magical.

Thanks a Lot, Universe by Chad Lucas
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A moving middle-grade #ownvoices debut for anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t belong.

Rea and the Blood of the Nectar by Payal Doshi
Goodreads | Mango and Marigold Press

Rea Chettri is on a secret quest to find her missing twin brother Rohan and she only has a few days. The clock is ticking in this fast-paced, thrilling and exciting adventure rife with evil creatures, a ruthless villain, and unforgettable friendships.

The Mending Summer by Ali Standish
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Perfect for fans of Orphan Island and Wishtree, The Mending Summer is the next stunning middle grade novel from Ali Standish—author of the Carnegie Medal nominee The Ethan I Was Before and August Isle, Bad Bella, and How to Disappear Completely—about a girl who is struggling to deal with her father’s alcoholism when she discovers an enchanted lake.

Lily’s Promise by Kathryn Erskine
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From National Book Award–winning author Kathryn Erskine comes a heartfelt, poignant novel that tackles grief, change, and the struggle to let your voice be heard. Perfect for fans of Lynda Mullaly Hunt, Erin Entrada Kelly, and Ali Benjamin.

JUNE

Almost Flying by Jake Maia Arlow
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this unabashedly queer middle grade debut, a week-long amusement park road trip becomes a true roller coaster of emotion when Dalia realizes she has more-than-friend feelings for her new bestie.

Generation Misfits by Akemi Dawn Bowman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A heartwarming Own Voices middle grade novel about an eleven-year-old Japanese-American girl who finds her true friends when she joins her school’s J-Pop club, from award-winning author Akemi Dawn Bowman.

Ahmed Aziz’s Epic Year by Nina Hamza
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Best at It meets John David Anderson in this Indian Muslim #ownvoices debut about a champion underachiever who must start over in a new state with the help of three classic books.

The Double Life of Danny Day by Mike Thayer
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A boy who lives every day twice uses his ability to bring down bullies at his new school in Mike Thayer’s humor-filled middle grade novel.

The Stars of Whistling Ridge by Cindy Baldwin
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this new novel from the author of Where the Watermelons Grow and Beginners Welcome, an almost-thirteen-year-old with an almost-complete sentence for a name embraces her destiny to search for a forever home.

Long Distance by Whitney Gardner
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the creator of Fake Blood comes another exceptionally charming middle grade graphic novel about friendships both near and far, far away.

What middle grade releases are you looking forward to? Tell us in the comments below!

The post Incredible Middle Grade Book Releases To Look Out For In 2021 appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

I was a fan of the first two instalments of Dash & Lily (as well as the recent Netflix adaptation) and this third book did not disappoint. Furthermore, I would recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of teen or young adult books featuring cute and nerdy romances. This book is ideally suited for reading during the winter because it (as well as the entire Dash & Lily series) takes place during Christmastime; but, since Dash and Lily’s relationship and future plans are the focus of this book, I feel it could be enjoyed at any time of the year. This book was relatively short, and I thought that it was a fun and easy read guaranteed to get you into the holiday mood.

I particularly loved Dash and Lily’s signature bookish wit as well as the romance and holiday festivities that took place in this book. Furthermore, I liked that this book took place in an entirely new and foreign setting; whereas the first two novels take place in New York, this third instalment is unique because it takes place almost entirely in London (and, of course, Dash and Lily do lots of exploring!). I am also a fan of Cohn and Levithan’s signature writing style where the chapters alternate between the two main characters’ perspectives; it is well-organised and easy to understand. One of my favourite parts of this book was the bibliophile scavenger hunt (which was very typical Dash and Lily) because it sounded super fun; I really wished that this portion of the book lasted more than a few chapters.

One critique that I have is that I wish that this book was a few chapters longer; without giving too much away, Dash and Lily make some major life decisions at the end of this book and it would have been nice to get some insights into whether or not these life changes worked out (and whether their families were a fan for these decisions). Additionally, at the beginning of this book, both of the characters (especially Dash) are struggling with their mental health; since this is such a relevant and relatable issue, I would have liked for the authors to have provided more information about these struggles as well as more in depth coping strategies. Furthermore, at the end of the book, I thought that the characters’ challenges seemed to get wrapped up unrealistically quick and easy.

Overall, I thought that this book was a fun read that’s perfect for the Christmas season. I enjoyed reading the entire Dash & Lily series and look forward to seeing if there will be a fourth book in the future.

Mind the Gap, Dash & Lily is available from Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore.

Will you be picking up Mind the Gap, Dash & Lily? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

For Dash and Lily, it’s beginning to look a lot like…distance! Just in time for the series release of Dash & Lily on Netflix comes a new helping of love–this time across the pond as best-selling authors Rachel Cohn and David Levithan send Dash and Lily to England. 

Dash and Lily were feeling closer than ever…it’s just too bad they’re now an ocean apart. After Dash gets accepted to Oxford University and Lily stays in New York to take care of her dogwalking business, the devoted couple are struggling to make a long distance relationship work. And when Dash breaks the news that he won’t be coming home for Christmas, Lily makes a decision: if Dash can’t come to her, she’ll join him in London. It’s a perfect romantic gesture…that spins out of Lily’s control. Soon Dash and Lily are feeling more of a gap between them, even though they’re in the same city. Will London bring them together again–or will it be their undoing?

The post Review: Mind the Gap, Dash & Lily by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

As bookish people, there is one place we all feel at home: the bookshop. The outside world doesn’t even matter anymore as long as we are surrounded by our favourite books and stories yet to be discovered. Most of us use the bookshop as far more than just a place to meet our needs, which is to get new reading material. We see it as a place to meet our friends, a place of comfort full of like-minded people and yes, even a place to reward or console ourselves after an accomplishment or an especially hard day (on that subject, check out fellow Nerd Daily contributor Tracy’s article on impulse book buying here). 

Now, you’re probably wondering why I just told you all of that when these are facts you know perfectly well yourself. I simply want you to be reminded of how you feel when entering a bookshop; either on a planned trip on a spontaneous visit to your favourite store. I get the exact same feeling whenever I read a story set in a bookshop, don’t you?

Luckily for us, a lot of authors choose to set their stories in a bookshop. These stories exist in every genre and for every age group and are like the comfort of a bookshop you can carry around with you and take home.

Surely, you’ve already read some stories which involve our favourite place to shop and you might even have a favourite fictional bookshop (Flourish and Blotts, anyone?) but just in case you haven’t or you’re in need of new reading material, here are five of my favourite fictional bookshops:

The Bookshop on the Corner by Jenny Colgan

For some reason, this romance novel has two titles. The American version, as it is listed here and the original British title, which is The Little Shop of Happy Ever After. This is a story about a young woman breaking free of (some) social conventions, relocating from the bustling city of Birmingham to the countryside of Scotland and falling in love. And she does all of this by impulsively buying a van and turning it into a bookshop on wheels.

If you are looking for a love story in which the protagonist not only falls in love with a man but with life, books, and most importantly herself, then this is the book for you.

The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

A. J. Fikry is a bookshop owner who has seen better days. In fact, both he and the bookshop have. He starts isolating himself from everyone he knows and even withdraws from what has been giving him pleasure throughout his life so far: his books. That is until a small package arrives at the shop and changes everything.

 This is a story for you if you like contemporary fiction full of emotion because this book is a whirlwind of feelings of every kind.

Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

In this cute YA novel, Dash and Lily meet through dares which Lily has left in a notebook at her favourite bookshop in order to find the right guy for her. They keep talking via the cleverly hidden notebook before starting to wonder whether they would get on just as well in real life as they do on paper.

Rachel Cohn and David Levithan are a dream pairing when it comes to writing romances. Some of you might remember Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist – either the book or the film version starring Michael Cera and Kat Dennings. Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares is an absolute delight for everyone who loves bookshops, an identity reveal and YA.

You by Caroline Kepnes

In this thriller, a bookseller Googles a customer’s name and starts cyberstalking her, before taking his stalking to an ‘IRL’ level. He slowly sneaks into her life and tries to eliminate every obstacle between them and their happy ever after, even if he crosses some lines.

You is an exploration of manipulation and trust (or lack of it) in our digital age, especially considering the power of social media and the enticing promise of ‘likes’. Many of you will probably already know the Netflix adaption starring Penn Badgley, but even so, the book is definitely worth a read as the story is so intense, the pages practically turn themselves!

Good Omens: The Nice and Accurate Prophecies of Agnes Nutter, Witch by Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman

The world is about to end. However, the angel Aziraphale and the demon Crowley have been living on earth since the very beginning (separately of course, except for when they run into each other which is bound to turn into lunch). They are too comfortable enjoying everything they are offered on this planet to look forward to the apocalypse. And then somehow, they lose sight of the Anti-Christ, which is a whole new level of dilemma…

This heartfelt and funny fantasy adventure is a true masterpiece. As for the bookshop setting, Aziraphale lives in a bookshop which serves as a meeting point for the angel and the demon on multiple occasions.

Here we have yet another book that has been adapted for the screen. What can I say; there is a reason that people want more of these stories after reading them. The Amazon Prime adaption of Good Omens has many beloved British actors in it, including David Tennant starring as Crowley and Michael Sheen as Aziraphale. If you love the show already, perfect, you will love the book just as much. If you haven’t consumed either, you’re in luck as both a perfect book and a perfect series await!

These are only five examples from a big pond of bookshop fiction and I hope that these examples can be an incentive for you to dive right in and to find as much comfort in fictional bookshops as I am assuming you do in your favourite real-life shop.

Now we would like to hear from you! What are your favourite fictional bookshops? Let us know in the comments below!

The post 5 Books Featuring Fictional Bookshops appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

If you’re worried about your tears hitting the pages of your book, then perhaps turn to their digital copies! Scribd is the world’s largest digital library and offers ebooks, audiobooks, and more for a low price of $9.99/month & 30-day free trial.

Read on to discover our picks and tell us in the comments if you have any other recommendations!

Eleanor & Park: A Novel by Rainbow Rowell
Goodreads

The relatability of two teens falling for each other over a mutual love of comics and The Smiths is a testament to Rainbow Rowell’s ability to tap into the teenage experience, where first loves are sweet, awkward, and all-consuming. Rowell’s young adult debut goes nicely with Green’s, launching them both into superstardom among teens.

Meet Cute: Some People Are Destined to Meet by Jennifer L. Armentrout, Sara Shepard and Nicola Yoon
Goodreads

Speaking of meet-cutes, here’s a whole slew of short stories about teens who seem almost destined for each other after being brought together serendipitously. Some of the biggest names in YA, from Nicola Yoon to Sara Shepard, contributed to this swoon-worthy collection.

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
Goodreads

How would you make the most of your last day on Earth? Part high school mystery, part poignant coming-of-age story, Lauren Oliver’s propulsive novel about a teen who is forced to live her last day over and over again (à la Groundhog Day) will surprise you. It’s a beautiful exploration of how we can be kinder to those around us — one that will make you think twice about the daily choices we all make.

Every Day by David Levithan
Goodreads

Every Day has a set-up with an extreme hypothetical premise: What if you became a different person every single day? A touching, thought-provoking look at what factors really matter when choosing to love someone and a contemplation on moral responsibilities.

The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon
Goodreads

What would you do on your last day before deportation? Natasha is trying to figure out a way for her family to stay in the US when she has a chance encounter with Daniel that sets off sweet series of events. These teens are definitely hoping for their ‘Great Perhaps.’

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
Goodreads

Quiet implications of deep distress and profound happiness litter this epistolary novel, penned by outsider Charlie, who makes inroads with various cliques to move past cliches. Like Looking for Alaska, Stephen Chbosky’s novel tackles heavy teenage issues, like drugs and sex, but in a quiet manner.

Five Feet Apart by Rachael Lippincott
Goodreads

Living with cystic fibrosis is difficult enough without also falling in love with another CFer — one that you can’t touch. Stella and Will’s heartrending story of trying to live life to the fullest while their lung function deteriorates is for anyone who loves a devastatingly tragic meet-cute (which is one of John Green’s many specialities).

Will you be checking out any of these books? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 7 YA Books That You’ll Need Tissues For appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

From best-selling YA novels such as Simon Vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda and Dumplin’, to Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer and the adaptation of the Alita graphic novels. Plus then you have classics such as A Wrinkle In Time and Fahrenheit 451.

This is by no means a definitive list as there are many adaptations scheduled for release in 2018, however, there are quite a few that have received no updates so perhaps they may be bumped to 2019. But, we have compiled a list of books that are being adapted into movies and TV this year for you to check out on Goodreads.

Read on to discover what’s coming book adaptations are hitting the theatres in 2018 and tell us in the comments below which ones you are most excited for!

Maze Runner: The Death Cure

The Death Cure by James Dashner / January 26 / TRAILER
Thomas leads some escaped Gladers on their final and most dangerous mission yet. To save their friends, they must break into the legendary Last City, a WCKD-controlled labyrinth that may turn out to be the deadliest maze of all. Starring Dylan O’Brien, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Kaya Scodelario, Rosa Salazar, Giancarlo Esposito and Ki Hong Lee.

12 Strong

Horse Soldiers by Doug Stanton / January 26 / TRAILER
In the wake of Sept. 11, Capt. Mitch Nelson leads a U.S. Special Forces team into Afghanistan for an extremely dangerous mission. Once there, the soldiers develop an uneasy partnership with the Northern Alliance to take down the Taliban and its al-Qaida allies. Starring Chris Hemsworth (Thor), Michael Shannon (Boardwalk Empire), and Taylor Sheridan (Sons of Anarchy).

Annihilation

Annihilation by Jeff VanderMeer / February 22
A biologist signs up for a dangerous, secret expedition where the laws of nature don’t apply. Starring Natalie Portman (Black Swan), Oscar Isaac (The Last Jedi), Jennifer Jason Leigh (Atypical), Tessa Thompson (Thor: Ragnarok), and Gina Rodriguez (Jane The Virgin).

Every Day

Every Day by David Levithan / February 23 / TRAILER
Rhiannon falls in love with A, a mysterious spirit who inhabits a different body every day, but loving someone who is a different person every 24 hours isn’t easy. Starring Angourie Rice (Spider-Man Homecoming), Debby Ryan, Jacob Batalon (Spider-Man Homecoming), and Justice Smith (The Get Down).

Red Sparrow

Red Sparrow by Jason Matthews / March 2 / TRAILER
Ballerina Dominika Egorova is recruited to ‘Sparrow School’ a Russian intelligence service where she is forced to use her body as a weapon. But her first mission, targeting a CIA agent, threatens to unravel the security of both nations. Starring Jennifer Lawrence (The Hunger Games), Mary-Louise Parker (Weeds), Joel Edgerton (Bright) and Jeremy Irons (Batman v Superman).

Love, Simon

Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli / March 16
Everyone deserves a great love story, but for Simon, it’s a little more complicated. Starring Katherine Langford and Miles Heizer (13 Reasons Why), Jennifer Garner (Dallas Buyers Club), Josh Duhamel (Safe Haven), Colton Haynes (Arrow), and Nick Robinson (Jurassic World).

A Wrinkle In Time

A Wrinkle In Time by Madeleine L’Engle / March 23 / TRAILER
The film begins after disappearance of her scientist father, three peculiar beings send Meg, her brother, and her friend to space in order to find him. Starring Rowan Blanchard (Girl Meets World), Chris Pine (Wonder Woman), Reese Witherspoon (Big Little Lies), Mindy Kaling (The Mindy Project), Oprah Winfrey and Zach Galifianakis (The Hangover).

Ready Player One

Ready Player One by Ernest Cline / March 29 / TRAILER
The creator of a virtual reality world called the OASIS dies and he releases a video in which he challenges all OASIS users to find his Easter Egg, which will give the finder his fortune. Wade Watts finds the first clue and starts a race for the Egg. Starring Tye Sheridan (X-Men: Apocalypse), Olivia Cooke (Bates Motel), Ben Mendelsohn (Rogue One), Mark Rylance (Dunkirk), Simon Pegg (Star Trek), T.J. Miller (Silicon Valley),and Hannah John-Kamen (Killjoys).

Where’d You Go, Bernadette

Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple / May 11
After her anxiety-ridden mother disappears, 15-year-old Bee does everything she can to track her down, discovering her troubled past in the process. Starring Cate Blanchett (Thor Ragnarok), Kristen Wiig (Bridesmaids), and Troian Bellisario (Pretty Little Liars).

Alita: Battle Angel

Alita by Yukito Kishiro / July 20
An action-packed story of one young woman’s journey to discover the truth of who she is and her fight to change the world starring Rosa Salazar (Maze Runner: The Scorch Trials).

Crazy Rich Asians

Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan / August 17
Three aristocratic Chinese families’ love of gossip and backstabbing runs rampant when the heir to a huge fortune returns to marry his Chinese-American girlfriend. Starring Constance Wu (Fresh Off The Boat), Michelle Yeoh (Star Trek Discovery), Gemma Chan (Transformers The Last Knight), Awkwafina, Ken Jeong (Dr Ken) and Harry Shum Jr (Shadowhunters).

The Darkest Minds

The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken / September 14
After a disease kills 98% of America’s children, the surviving 2% develop superpowers and are placed in internment camps. A 16-year-old girl escapes her camp and joins a group of other teens on the run from the government. Starring Amandla Stenberg (Everything, Everything), Mandy Moore (This Is Us) and Gwendoline Christie (Game of Thrones).

Boy Erased

Boy Erased by Garrard Conley / September 23
The son of a baptist preacher is forced to participate in a church-supported gay conversion program. Starring Troye Sivan, Nicole Kidman (Big Little Lies), Joel Edgerton (Bright) and Russel Crowe.

First Man

First Man: The Life of Neil A. Armstrong by James R. Hansen / October 12
A look at the life of the astronaut, Neil Armstrong, and the legendary space mission that led him to become the first man to walk on the Moon on July 20, 1969. Starring Ryan Gosling (La La Land) and Claire Foy (The Crown).

The Girl In The Spider’s Web

The Girl In The Spider’s Web by David Lagercrantz / October 19
Young computer hacker Lisbeth Salander and journalist Mikael Blomkvist find themselves caught in a web of spies, cybercriminals and corrupt government officials, which stars Claire Foy (The Crown).

Mortal Engines

Mortal Engines by Philip Reeve / December 14
Many years after the “Sixty Minute War,” cities survive a now desolate Earth by moving around on giant wheels attacking and devouring smaller towns to replenish their resources. Starring Hera Hilmar (Da Vinci’s Demons), Hugo Weaving (Lord of the Rings), and Robert Sheehan (Misfits). 

Dumplin’

Dumplin’ by Julie Murphy / TBD
A girl with the nickname “Dumplin'” enters a beauty pageant in order to win over the boy she likes and stick it to the other girls at school. Starring Danielle Macdonald (Patti Cake$), Odeya Rush (Goosebumps), Dove Cameron (Descendants), Bex Taylor-Klaus (Scream 2015), Maddie Baillio (Hairspray Live), and Jennifer Aniston (Friends).

Fahrenheit 451

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury / TBD
In a terrifying care-free future, a young man, Guy Montag, whose job as a fireman is to burn all books, questions his actions after meeting a young girl…and begins to rebel against society. Starring Michael B. Jordan (Creed), Michael Shannon (Boardwalk Empire) and Sofia Boutella (Kingsman).

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han / TBD
A teenage girl’s secret love letters are exposed and wreak havoc on her love life. Starring Lana Condor (X-Men: Apocalypse), Noah Centineo (The Fosters) and Janel Parrish (Pretty Little Liars).

Bel Canto

Bel Canto by Ann Patchett / TBD
A world-renown opera singer becomes trapped in a hostage situation when she’s invited to perform for a wealthy industrialist in South America. Starring Julianne Moore (Still Alice) and Ken Watanabe (Godzilla).

Ashes In The Snow

Between Shades of Grey by Ruta Sepetys / TBD
In 1941, an aspiring artist and her family are deported to Siberia amidst Stalin’s brutal dismantling of the Baltic region. In a seemingly hopeless place, love is the only means of survival. Starring Bel Powley (A Royal Night Out), John Hauer-King (Little Women) and Martin Wallström (Mr Robot).

Black Hand

Black Hand by Will Thomas / TBD
Police officer, Joe Petrosino, seeks justice against a ruthless Italian-American gang in New York. Starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

Which one are you most excited for? Tell us in the comments below!

The post 2018 Book To Film Adaptations appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

With Christmas just around the corner, you can’t help but feel a little carried away with all the festivities going on around you. From decorating the house, to preparing for holiday travels, and that last minute shopping. However, it is also a time to relax, and reading is an excellent way to do so!

We’ve compiled some young adult holiday reads to check out over the break, so either grab a cool drink or some hot chocolate and get reading!

Tell us what your favourite Christmas read is in the comments below!

Dash and Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

Set in New York, Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favourite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. Then Dash comes, accepts the dares, and begins their romance by a unique way of trading the book of dares across locations in New York. This is a favourite book in the YA community and it even has a sequel, Twelve Days of Dash and Lily.

Decked With Holly by Marni Bates

Holly is spending Christmas on a cruise with her cousins from hell, when she meets Dominic Wyatt—the drummer of one of the hottest bands in America. Their first meeting is more than awkward, but Holly’s face is already plastered all over the internet and the band wants to save their family-friendly image. So Dominic asks Holly to be his fake girlfriend for 2 weeks and turns her Christmas around. How bad could it be to be “fauxmantically” involved with a cute rock star? She’s about to find out…

What Light by Jay Asher

Sierra has two lives: one in her real home at a Christmas farm in Oregon, and another one in California, where the family always goes near the holiday season to set up their Christmas lot. Leaving one always means missing the other, until this year, when she meets Caleb. By reputation, Caleb is not your perfect guy, but Sierra sees beyond Caleb’s past and becomes determined to help him find forgiveness and, maybe, redemption.

My New Crush Gave to Me by Shani Petroff

Charlotte Charlie Donovan knows exactly what she wants for Christmas: Teo Ortiz. She also has a plan to be Teo’s date to the Christmas ball: to rig the papers Secret Santa so that she can win his heart with five perfect gifts. In order to do that, she needs the help of J.D. Ortiz, Teo’s cousin, and possibly the most annoying person on the planet. Yet, the more time Charlie spends with J.D., the more she starts to wonder: Does she really know what, or rather who, she wants for Christmas?

Let It Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle

A Christmas Eve snowstorm transforms one small town into a romantic haven, the kind you see only in movies. Well, kinda. After all, a cold and wet hike from a stranded train through the middle of nowhere would not normally end with a delicious kiss from a charming stranger. And no one would think that a trip to the Waffle House through four feet of snow would lead to love with an old friend. Or that the way back to true love begins with a painfully early morning shift at Starbucks. Let It Snow contains 3 interconnected holiday stories by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle.

My True Love Gave to Me by Various Authors, edited by Stephanie Perkins

This novel features is a collection of 12 different holiday stories, whether it’s Christmas, Hanukkah, or New Year, by 12 of New York Times bestselling authors.

The post 6 YA Books To Read Over The Holidays appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

As many of you know, June is Pride Month and what better way to celebrate diversity than reading some of the fantastic LGBTQ+ books that have been published! From Will Grayson, Will Grayson by the ever-popular John Green to Julie Murphy’s recent release Ramona Blue, here are seven books for you to check out!

Drag Teen by Jeffery Self | Goodreads

This super quick read is all about drag teens! Drag Teen is Self’s second young adult novel and follows a boy named JT who’s been denied every scholarship he’s applied for so he can make it to college. But when his boyfriend Seth finds a drag teen race granting the winner a scholarship, JT isn’t so sure about it. JT, Seth and their friend Heather all go on a trip to New York City for a fun adventure, and with this book being less than 300 pages, it makes for a fun and one heck of a read!

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan | Goodreads

Guess who our main characters are? Will Grayson, but times two. This novel is about two boys with the exact same name who meet and strike up a friendship, plus a few extra sparks! Published back in 2010, there has been no rumours about a movie yet, despite every other John Green novel has been adapted into a film. However, a companion novel was released two years ago titled Hold Me Closer: A Tiny Cooper Story by David Levithan.

Of Fire and Stars by Audrey Coulthurst | Goodreads

This book was featured in the December Owlcrate, which is a book subscription box, and people have been eating it up since then! The novel follows Princess Dennaleia who is supposed to get married to a prince, but instead she falls in love with a huntress named Mare instead. This is Coulthurst’s debut novel and after its big success, she’s already working on another two books!

Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli | Goodreads

Also a debut novel for Becky Albertalli, Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda has been widely received by many after its publication in 2015. With it currently set to be released as a film next year starring Thirteen Reasons Why‘s Katherine Langford and Miles Heizer along with Colton Haynes, Nick Robinson and Jennifer Garner, this is one book you definitely need to check out! The novel sees Simon outed to his whole class after an email he sends falls into the wrong hands and becomes blackmailed by a classmate. Albertalli’s recently released second novel, The Upside of Unrequited, is as much of a hit as her first.

Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic by Alison Bechdel | Goodreads

You may know this comic because of the Tony Award-winning musical sharing the same name. Well it was a book first! Fun Home follows Bechdel’s life growing up as she questions her own sexuality, but doesn’t know her father is also in the closet.

Ramona Blue by Julie Murphy | Goodreads

Remember Dumplin? This is the same author with a brand-new story! Ramona has always loved girls, but when she finds an old swimmer friend, she starts questioning whether or not if she just likes girls or not. Ramona Blue came out last month and has been widely praised by the book community.

History Is All You Left Me by Adam Silvera | Goodreads

Adam Silvera certainly has a way with words and his latest novel was published at the start of this year. History Is All You Left Me follows Griffin. After his first boyfriend Theo left him in pursuit of his dreams and a new boy named Jackson, Griffin believed the two would be together again one day but he soon learns Theo has suddenly passed away. After his death, Griffin finds himself uncertain about life and makes a new connection… with Jackson. This novel is a heartbreaking contemporary which will have you shedding a tear, or a river.

Didn’t see your favourite LGBTQIA+ novel? Tell us your favourite one down below!

The post 7 Books to Read for Pride Month appeared first on The Nerd Daily.