Kami Garcia Archives | The Nerd Daily

Take A Peek At ‘Mixed-Up’ by Kami Garcia and Brittney Williams

Elise Dumpleton — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 17:00:00 +0000

New York Times bestselling author Kami Garcia has returned with a middle grade graphic novel about the struggles of a game-loving girl who gets diagnosed with dyslexia and her loving support network that help her along in the journey.

Intrigued? Well read on to discover the synopsis and an excerpt from Kami Garcia and Brittney Williams’ Mixed-Up, which is out January 21st 2025.

Stella knows fifth grade will be the best year ever. Her closest friends, Emiko and Latasha, are in her class and they all got the teacher they wanted. Then their favorite television show, Witchlins, announces a new guidebook and an online game!

But when the classwork starts piling up, Stella struggles to stay on top. Why does it take her so long to read? And how can she keep up with friends in the Witchlins game if she can’t get through the text-heavy guidebook? And when she can’t deal with the text-heavy Witchlins guidebook, she can’t keep up with her friends in the game. It takes loving teachers and her family to recognize that Stella has a learning difference, and after a dyslexia diagnosis she gets the support and tools she needs to succeed.

Bestselling author Kami Garcia was inspired to write this special book by her daughter’s dyslexia journey; her own neurodivergent experience; and the many students she taught over the years. With subtle design and formatting choices making this story accessible to all readers, Mixed-Up shows that our differences don’t need to separate us.

To make reading as comfortable as possible for dyslexic readers, the book has been lettered in Dyslexie.

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Q&A: Kami Garcia, Author of ‘Teen Titans: Beast Boy’

Nathalie DeFelice — Mon, 31 Aug 2020 09:00:00 +0000

Author Kami Garcia (Beautiful Creatures) and artist Gabriel Picolo, the creative duo behind the New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestseller Teen Titans: Raven, take you on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance, while reminding us the value of true friendship–especially when life gets wild.

We had the pleasure of asking Kami a few questions about her latest release!

**Kami, can you tell us a bit about yourself and about your upcoming graphic novel, Teen Titans: Beast Boy?**

I’m a former teacher turned YA author. I wrote my first novel Beautiful Creatures with my best friend/coauthor Margaret Stohl, on a dare from seven of my students. Teen Titans: Beast Boy is the story of how Gar Logan discovers his powers and how they change the way he views himself.

How did you come to start writing about the Teen Titans?

When DC approached me about writing for their YA line, I asked if there were any characters they were dying for someone to write. When they mentioned the Teen Titans, I jumped on it because I’m a fan.

In what ways has the graphic novel journey been different from traditional publishing?

The biggest difference is that my co-creator is an artist — Gabriel Picolo in this case. I’ve written with another author before, but this was the first time I had ever worked with an artist and it was amazing. Gabriel brings so much to the project. It’s incredible.

How was it like coordinating with an artist to bring the graphic novel to life?

The art brings the story to another level. It gives readers a sense if the characters and the emotional impact of what’s happening to them in a way that words can’t.

When writing about Beast Boy, what was something that you really wanted readers to focus on?

Gar has to decide if he’s going to let other people define him or if he’s going to define himself. I think that’s a question we all face.

What is your favorite aspect of Beast Boy?

He’s a genuinely sweet and decent guy. Sweet guys don’t get enough credit or page time.

Of all of the Titans, who do you feel you relate with the most?

Definitely Raven. She’s unsure of herself in a way I really identified with as a teen. I also tend to be a little dark.

If you could have a power, which would you choose and why?

That’s a hard one. I wouldn’t want to absorb people’s emotions or hear their thoughts like Raven and I wouldn’t want to fly because I’m afraid of heights. I wouldn’t mind having the power to influence people. A close second would be the ability to turn anything into pizza.

What is coming next for the Teen Titans series?

Beast Boy Loves Raven is the third book in the Teen Titans series. There a preview in the back of Teen Titans: Beast Boy. Gabriel and I think readers will love it.

**Will you be picking up Teen Titans: Beast Boy? Tell us in the comments below!**

The post Q&A: Kami Garcia, Author of ‘Teen Titans: Beast Boy’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Review: Beast Boy by Kami Garcia

Nathalie DeFelice — Sat, 22 Aug 2020 13:00:00 +0000

If I had to name a favorite Teen Titan, I’d have to admit it’s not Beast Boy. However, in recent years on Instagram, I’ve been following this incredible artist, Gabriel Picolo (@_picolo). His artwork of Raven and Beast Boy is PHENOMENAL. So you know, go give him a follow, and check out his work because it’s just *chef’s kiss*. And let’s not forget KAMI freaking GARCIA! Her Beautiful Creatures series is one I still have on my shelves after years and years. I love her storytelling, so I can honestly tell you, my expectations were high for this book. I’m excited to see more from this dynamic duo. Go out and pre-order, buy, or request to get this graphic novel in your hands.

I’m a sucker for origin stories, and with Beast Boy, that’s exactly what we get. Garfield Logan has spent 17 years of his life in Eden, Georgia being overlooked. He knows time is ticking to get noticed, and with his senior year coming to an end soon, he needs to find a way to impress the Chosen Ones at Bull Creek High School. His best friends Stella and Tank don’t get why he cares so much about other people’s opinions, they miss their pizza-loving, gamer friend. When Gar accepts a dare out of the blue, he impresses the Chosen Ones, but soon he notices that things are changing. His body seems to be going through a super puberty, and it comes with popularity alongside it. However, in order to continue impressing his new crowd of friends, the dares start getting harder and more dangerous. Gar will need to dig deep and find the truth of himself and the people who truly matter, before things go out of control.

I FLEW through this book unintentionally, it was that good. I wasn’t expecting to like this story as much as I did, and that was partially because Beast Boy (Gar) has always seemed so incredibly clowinsh. However, seeing what drives that clownish personality (insecurity of not fitting in and other things) really helped me connect with his character on a deeper level. I loved Stella and Tank because of how supportive they were trying to be of him being himself, and seeing the distance playing out in this graphic novel when he gains popularity really stung. Having it be a graphic novel instead of a book certainly helps, but the dialogue is really what clinches this book for me.

One of my favourite aspects of this graphic novel is seeing Gar’s responses to peer pressure and his struggles with body image. I won’t lie, it’s pretty relatable as someone who struggled to fit in as a high school kid. I could identify with his reasoning for continuing to do the dares even if they escalated dangerously, and it was because the cool kids would continue to think he was cool. Except that never lasts. And then it hurts, and I hurt for Gar a little bit.

The exploration of Gar’s changes physically and mentally were also really well executed in my opinion. I’ve always been so curious about how Beast Boy came into his abilities, and while I know we haven’t found out everything, I’m hoping we can learn more. I’m also curious how his friends are going to play into all of it. I’m even more curious about the sinister person that’s definitely got something afoot. And even further, if this might lead into a comic with the whole Teen Titan’s group forming ( I am crossing my fingers for this so hard).

With this being a graphic novel, I can’t NOT talk about the artwork. Again, go follow @_picolo. His artwork is amazing, and I’ll not hear anything else on it. I love Beast Boy’s overall look, and even reading the e-version of this, the lines are crisp and clear. I love the colour palette that was used, and I’m so excited to see more of this graphic novel, because honestly Gabriel’s stuff should be out EVERYWHERE! If you haven’t grabbed Teen Titans: Raven, you also need to grab that one…you know. Get them all.

My only complaint in all of this was that it was too short! I finished it fast, and then felt like there should have been much more. I feel like I’m on a bit of a cliffhanger though, and wish I had the next part of the story out tomorrow, instead of some time in the future *cries*. With all that said though, you should certainly add this graphic novel to your list! It’s fun, adventurous, and has lots of the classic Beast Boy clown bits, but with a little more edge, and amazing art. You won’t want to miss it.

Beast Boy is available from Amazon, Book Depository, and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore, as of September 1st 2020.

**Will you be picking up Beast Boy? Tell us in the comments below!**

Synopsis | Goodreads

Garfield Logan has spent his entire life being overlooked. Even in a small town like Eden, Georgia, the 17-year-old with green streaks in his hair can’t find a way to stand out–and the clock is ticking. Senior year is almost over. If Gar doesn’t find a way to impress the Chosen Ones–the social elite at Bull Creek High School–he will never know what it’s like to matter. Gar’s best friends, Stella and Tank, don’t understand why he cares what other people think. They miss their funny, pizza-loving, video game-obsessed best friend.

Then Gar accepts a wild dare out of the blue. It impresses the Chosen Ones and his social status soars. But other things are changing, too. Gar grows six inches overnight. His voice drops and, suddenly, he’s stronger and faster. He’s finally getting everything he wanted, but his newfound popularity comes at a price. Gar has to work harder to impress his new friends. The dares keep getting bigger and the stakes keep getting higher.

When Gar realizes the extent of his physical changes, he has to dig deep and face the truth about himself–and the people who truly matter–before his life spirals out of control.

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YA Books Releasing Between July & December 2019

Elise Dumpleton — Thu, 18 Jul 2019 02:00:48 +0000

This post comes with a serious warning…as you read on, you’ll discover some exciting upcoming young adult releases that you’ll be adding to your TBR in no time and lightening your wallet at the same time!

The rest of 2019 sees new YA books from popular authors such as Kasie West, Kami Garcia, Katharine McGee, Jenn Bennett, Ruta Septys, Philip Pullman, Natasha Ngan, Tomi Adeyemi, and Kiersten White! Plus there’s debuts, tales of Sabrina, Mulan, and Camelot, and plenty more for you to enjoy!

Read on to discover a few of the YA books coming out between July and December! Tell us in the comments below which ones you’re excited to read!

JULY

Maybe This Time by Kasie West
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Beloved author Kasie West brings her signature witty banter and rom-com fun to a bold, fresh format. Think Four Weddings and a Funeral for YA.

Season of the Witch by Sarah Rees Brennan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the creator of Riverdale comes the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, a new Netflix series based on the classic Archie comic series. This prequel YA novel tells an all-new, original story.

Destroy All Monsters by Sam J. Miller
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A crucial, genre-bending tale, equal parts Ned Vizzini and Patrick Ness, about the life-saving power of friendship.

Teen Titans: Raven by Kami Garcia and Gabriel Picolo
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Kami Garcia and first-time graphic novel artist Gabriel Picolo comes this riveting tale of finding the strength to face who you are and learning to trust others–and yourself.

Before I Disappear by Danielle Stinson
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Danielle Stinson’s Before I Disappear is an action-packed YA novel where a young woman has to find her little brother after her town disappears into thin air.

The Best Lies by Sarah Lyu
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Told in alternating timelines, Thelma and Louise meets Gone Girl in this twisted psychological thriller about the dark side of obsessive friendship.

AUGUST

Swipe Right for Murder by Derek Milman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An epic case of mistaken identity puts a teen looking for a hookup on the run from both the FBI and a murderous cult in this compulsively readable thriller.

Ever Alice by H.J. Ramsay
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Alice’s stories of Wonderland did more than raise a few eyebrows—it landed her in an asylum. Now at 15 years of age, she’s willing to do anything to leave, which includes agreeing to an experimental procedure.

The Downstairs Girl by Stacey Lee
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the critically-acclaimed author of Under a Painted Skyand Outrun the Moon and founding member of We Need Diverse Books comes a powerful novel about identity, betrayal, and the meaning of family.

Bright Star by Erin Swan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Erin Swan’s YA fantasy debut, Bright Star, is an action-packed adventure tale of rebellion, romance, and finding one’s voice in the heart of a storm.

Here There Are Monsters by Amelinda Bérubé
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Blair Witch Project meets Imaginary Girls in this story of codependent sisterhood, the struggle to claim one’s own space, and the power of secrets

Hello Girls by Brittany Cavallaro and Emily Henry
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Thelma and Louise gets remade in this powerful, darkly funny teen novel from acclaimed authors Brittany Cavallaro and Emily Henry. Two teenage girls who have had enough of the controlling men in their lives take their rage on the road to make a new life for themselves.

SEPTEMBER

The Grace Year by Kim Liggett
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A speculative thriller in the vein of The Handmaid’s Tale and The Power. With sharp prose and gritty realism, The Grace Year examines the complex and sometimes twisted relationships between girls, the women they eventually become, and the difficult decisions they make in-between.

The Magnolia Sword: A Ballad of Mulan by Sherry Thomas
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Inspired by wuxia martial-arts dramas as well as the centuries-old ballad of Mulan, The Magnolia Sword is perfect for fans of Renee Ahdieh, Marie Lu, or Kristin Cashore–a thrilling, romantic, and sharp-edged novel that lives up to its beloved heroine.

Six Goodbyes We Never Said by Candace Ganger
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Candace Ganger’s Six Goodbyes We Never Said is no love story. If you ask Naima, it’s not even a like story. But it is a story about love and fear and how sometimes you need a little help to be brave enough to say goodbye.

The Lady Rogue by Jenn Bennett
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Last Magician meets A Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue in this thrilling tale filled with magic and set in the mysterious Carpathian Mountains where a girl must hunt down Vlad the Impaler’s cursed ring in order to save her father.

American Royals by Katharine McGee
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

What if America had a royal family? If you can’t get enough of Harry and Meghan or Kate and William, meet American princesses Beatrice and Samantha.

The Bone Houses by Emily Lloyd-Jones
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Buffy the Vampire Slayer meets Sky in the Deep in this bewitching, historical horror novel, perfect for fans of Holly Black and V.E. Schwab.

OCTOBER

The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Salt to the Sea and Between Shades of Gray comes a gripping, unforgettable portrait of love, silence, and secrets amidst a Spanish dictatorship.

The Good Luck Girls by Charlotte Nicole Davis
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Westworld meets The Handmaid’s Tale in this stunning fantasy adventure from debut author Charlotte Nicole Davis.

The Secret Commonwealth (The Book of Dust #2) by Philip Pullman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Return to the parallel world of His Dark Materials in the second volume of Philip Pullman’s new bestselling masterwork The Book of Dust, and discover what comes next for Lyra.

The Never Tilting World by Rin Chupeco
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Frozen meets Mad Max in this epic teen fantasy duology bursting with star-crossed romance, immortal heroines, and elemental magic, perfect for fans of Furyborn.

Into the Crooked Place by Alexandra Christo
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In a world thriving with black magic, four young crooks embark on a quest to take down their criminal leader after they discover the plot behind his dangerous new magic.

10 Blind Dates by Ashley Elston
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A light-hearted and romantic contemporary novel set during the holiday season and full of humor, heart and heartbreak.

NOVEMBER

Across A Broken Shore by Amy Trueblood
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The last thing eighteen-year-old Wilhelmina “Willa” MacCarthy wants is to be a nun. It’s 1936, and as the only daughter amongst four sons, her Irish–Catholic family is counting on her to take her vows—but Willa’s found another calling. Each day she sneaks away to help Doctor Katherine Winston in her medical clinic in San Francisco’s Richmond District.

The Guinevere Deception by Kiersten White
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From New York Times bestselling author Kiersten White comes a new fantasy series reimagining the Arthurian legend, set in the magical world of Camelot.

All-American Muslim Girl by Nadine Jolie Courtney
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

All-American Muslim Girl is a relevant, relatable story of being caught between two worlds, and the struggles and hard-won joys of finding your place.

Crown of Oblivion by Julie Eshbaugh
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this mesmerizing YA fantasy mash-up of The Road meets The Amazing Race, one girl chooses to risk her life in a cutthroat competition in order to win her freedom.

Eight Will Fall by Sarah Harian
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Lovers of dark, high-octane adventure will be enthralled by Sarah Harian’s Eight Will Fall, a genre-bending YA fantasy standalone, perfect for fans of Kendare Blake and Leigh Bardugo.

Girls of Storm and Shadow by Natasha Ngan
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this mesmerizing sequel to the New York Times bestselling Girls of Paper and Fire, Lei and Wren have escaped their oppressive lives in the Hidden Palace, but soon learn that freedom comes with a terrible cost.

DECEMBER

Children of Virtue and Vengeance (Legacy of Orïsha #2) by Tomi Adeyemi
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Children of Virtue and Vengeance is the stunning sequel to Tomi Adeyemi’s New York Times bestselling debut Children of Blood and Bone, the first title in her Legacy of Orïsha trilogy.

The Weight of A Soul by Elizabeth Tammi
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

When Lena’s younger sister Fressa is found dead, their whole Viking clan mourns—but it is Lena alone who never recovers. Fressa is the sister that should’ve lived, and Lena cannot rest until she knows exactly what killed Fressa and why—and how to bring her back. She strikes a dark deal with Hela, the Norse goddess of death, and begins a new double life to save her sister.

Hearts, Strings, and Other Breakable Things by Jacqueline Firkins
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

In this charming debut about first love and second chances, a young girl gets caught between the boy next door and a playboy. Perfect for fans of To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before.

Dangerous Alliance by Jennieke Cohen
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue meets Jane Austen in this witty, winking historical romance with a dash of mystery!

To Whatever End by Lindsey Frydman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Quinn Easterly is cursed. With one touch, she can see the end to someone’s life. Everyday deaths, and ones that haunt her in her daydreams. Ones that have always proven impossible to prevent. She has finally learned to go about life as usual until she meets Griffin.

Watch Over Me by Mila Gray
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From the author of Come Back to Me comes a striking new novel about a young woman— desperately trying to protect her family from their violent father—who finds safety, and a passionate romance, with an ex-Marine.

Are there any YA books you’re excited for? Tell us in the comments below!

The post YA Books Releasing Between July & December 2019 appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

July 2019 Book Releases: YA

Elise Dumpleton — Sat, 06 Jul 2019 20:00:35 +0000

Ready to fall in love with a new book? You might do just that with these exciting young adult releases that are hitting shelves this month! July sees the release of some exciting books from well-known authors such as Kasie West, Ann Aguirre, and Kami Garcia. It also marks the debut for some new authors such as Rory Power, Danielle Stinson, Sarah Lyu, and Stacia Tolman.

Read on to discover our picks and tell us which one you’re most excited for in the comments below!

Maybe This Time by Kasie West
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Beloved author Kasie West brings her signature witty banter and rom-com fun to a bold, fresh format. Think Four Weddings and a Funeral for YA.

Before I Disappear by Danielle Stinson
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Danielle Stinson’s Before I Disappear is an action-packed YA novel where a young woman has to find her little brother after her town disappears into thin air.

Wilder Girls by Rory Power
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A feminist Lord of the Flies about three best friends living in quarantine at their island boarding school, and the lengths they go to uncover the truth of their confinement when one disappears. This fresh, new debut is a mind-bending novel unlike anything you’ve read before.

Heartwood Box by Ann Aguirre
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A dark, romantic YA suspense novel with an SF edge and plenty of drama, layering the secrets we keep and how appearances can deceive, from the New York Times bestselling author.

Stealing Home by Becky Wallace
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Ryan Russell has life perfectly planned. She’s going to take over her family’s team, the Buckley Beavers, and become one of the only female General Managers in minor league baseball. Then Sawyer Campbell shows up, and Ryan’s carefully laid plans are thrown a major curveball. Sawyer is far more charming than the arrogant jocks she usually manages, though fraternising is against every rule in the Beaver’s handbook.

The Best Lies by Sarah Lyu
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Told in alternating timelines, Thelma and Louise meets Gone Girl in this twisted psychological thriller about the dark side of obsessive friendship.

Truly Madly Royally by Debbie Rigaud
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

An #ownvoices Point Paperback original that is like The Princess Diaries for this generation — pure wish-fulfilment fun, from new talent Debbie Rigaud.

The Last Word by Samantha Hastings
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Set against the smoky, gaslit allure of Victorian London, this sweetly romantic historical debut is full of humour and stars a whip-smart female heroine ahead of her time.

Teen Titans: Raven by Kami Garcia and Gabriel Picolo
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

The Spaces Between Us by Stacia Tolman
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

Two outcast best friends are desperate to survive senior year and break away from their dying factory town in Stacia Tolman’s The Spaces Between Us, an unforgettable YA debut.

The Beckoning Shadow by Katharyn Blair
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

From debut author Katharyn Blair comes a heart-stopping fantasy novel, perfect for fans of Cassandra Clare and The Young Elites, about a teenage runaway who enters a dangerous tournament with an impossible prize.

Destroy All Monsters by Sam J. Miller
Goodreads | Amazon | Book Depository

A crucial, genre-bending tale, equal parts Ned Vizzini and Patrick Ness, about the life-saving power of friendship.

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

The post July 2019 Book Releases: YA appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Interview: Kami Garcia, Author of ‘Teen Titans: Raven’

The Nerd Daily — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 21:57:04 +0000

Written by Stacey Rourke

Hey, booknerds! I’m back to introduce you to get another fabulous author! Today, we will be cracking open the cover with Kami Garcia, to discuss her latest book, Teen Titans: Raven. Get ready for some superhero fun!

Hi Kami! Thanks so much for joining us. Let’s start with the Twitter challenge! Describe your book in 280 characters or less.

Raven loses her mom and her memory and has to move to NOLA. She doesn’t know she has powers and she has to find the strength to face the truth about herself — with the help of her foster sister Max, Max’s mom, a boy with a secret, ancestral magic, tarot cards, a copy of Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and the huge reappearing shadow of a raven.

I’m hooked already! Tell me, what kind of research did you do before beginning Teen Titans: Raven?

I was already a fan of Teen Titans and the character, but I did watch the animated series again and re-read some of the comics. Most of my research focused on New Orleans. I’ve spent a lot of time there, but it’s not the same as being a local. My friend Alys Arden, author of The Casquette Girls series and the forthcoming graphic novel Zatana: The Jewel of Gravesend (for DC), is a native New Orleanian. She helped me get NOLA and the tarot card reading details right. The graphic novel is also very diverse and we had several sensitivity readers. I was a teacher for seventeen years, so I how important it is for teens to be able to see themselves in the book they read.

Interview continues below images…

The character of Raven has been featured in different comics, television series, and films over the years. How did you go about portraying your version of Raven?

I wanted to write a version of Raven that focused more on Raven as a teen than Raven as a superhero. But I also wanted to be true to the character co-created by Marv Wolfman, because she embodies how it feels to be different and the loneliness and isolation that often comes with it. Yet Marv also crafted a female character who pushes through those feelings. I wanted to write a teen version of Raven that was really relatable. Gabriel’s art really made that happen. He captured the heart of the character with his art.

What was the process like working with illustrator Gabriel Picolo?

Working with Gabriel was a dream. He immediately understood what I was trying to do with the characters and he loved the idea of grounding Raven in reality just enough to make her more accessible to new comic readers. He also brought a new character — Max — to life, which was incredible. Gabriel’s art captures the heart of what makes these characters special.

As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?

A lion would be my spirit animal because they’re dangerous if you mess with them, but they spend most of their time sleeping and lounging around until they get hungry.

Fantastic answer! Thanks so much for joining us, Kami! Book nerds, make sure you check out Teen Titans: Raven! Until next time, keep reading!

**Will you be checking out Teen Titans: Raven? Tell us in the comments below!**

The post Interview: Kami Garcia, Author of ‘Teen Titans: Raven’ appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

Read Some Spooky Books This Halloween

The Nerd Daily — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 05:00:49 +0000

Written by Tasya

Now that it’s officially fall for half of the world and the weather has turned cold and crisp for half of the world, it means it’s also time to welcome the Halloween season! It’s that time of the year to get spooky, to spend your nights watching and reading horror until Halloween ends, and of course, to put up crazy decorations and wear costumes! To help you spice up your Halloween reads, we are here to suggest a few books and themes that would be perfect for a Halloween binge!

Read A Classic

There are many options you can choose for this prompt, including Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, Dracula by Bram Stoker, Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte, The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde, and Inferno by Dante.

Read A Book About Witches

What’s Halloween without a few witches? The obvious choice for this prompt would be Harry Potter, but if you want something different, you can read Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia, A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness, How to Hang A Witch by Adriana Mather, and Truthwitch by Susan Dennard. Or you know, you can always read the book adaptation of Hocus Pocus!

Read A Book About Curses

Any kind of curse will do! You can read Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake, Compulsion by Martina Boone, The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw, and Strange Grace by Tessa Gratton.

Read A Book About Foreign Myth/Folk Stories

For this prompt, you can read The Girl from the Well by Rin Chupeco, American Gods by Neil Gaiman, and obviously Rick Riordan’s books. If you want something new, you can read an East Asian stories anthology, A Thousand Beginnings and Endings.

Read A Book About Grim Reapers/Death

I really love reading death as a personification, as death/grim reapers always have such a unique voice. They can be really had to find as there are rarely books about them, but you can read The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, Scythe by Neal Shusterman, A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore, and Death or Ice Cream by Gareth P. Jones

Read A Book With An Unreliable Narrator

Unreliable narrators is defined as a narrator whose credibility has been compromised, either because they are the culprit, didn’t remember what happened, or something else. Some of the books with unreliable narrators are The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin, Dangerous Girls by Abigail Haas, The Girl On The Train by Paula Hawkins, and The Dead House by Dawn Kurtagich.

Read A Book With A Creepy Cover

I think we can agree the Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children series have creepy covers! Other options include Daughters unto Devil by Amy Luckavics, Say Her Name by James Dawson, and The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson.

Happy October! Let us know if you plan on reading any along with the books you will be reading this Halloween in the comments below!

The post Read Some Spooky Books This Halloween appeared first on The Nerd Daily.

YA Book Trend Report & The Trends of 2018

The Nerd Daily — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 02:00:59 +0000

Article contributed by Emika Truffles

The category that is young adult is filled with so many different types of books and genres that nowadays it can be a bit tricky to find what to read since there are so many options. However, like most things, there are certain styles and genres that create a trend.

Many trends have emerged to worldwide acclaim this century and are part of (now) adults’ teenage reading favourites, including my own. Trends peak and fade with time and interest by readers and many new ones emerge every year, so let’s go down memory lane and see the biggest trends in the last decade or so, as well as the current trends and predictions for 2018 and beyond!

The Paranormal Band: Vampires, Werewolves & Witches

It would be an understatement to say that the paranormal trend took to young adults (and adults!) by storm. It was so hugely popular especially with the fast development of social media that it began a domino effect and crossover into Hollywood as YA book to movie adaptations smashed box offices around the world. Many consider Twilight as the pivotal origin of the paranormal hype as sparkling vampires became famous. More and more successful novels and series such as Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead, The Southern Vampire Mysteries (True Blood), and House of Night series by P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast, were consequently eaten up by readers, some adapted in movies and many remain current favourites for readers. This trend didn’t only apply to vampires but also to witches (Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia), ghosts (Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake) and werewolves (Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater).

Angels and Demons

There’s nothing more attractive to teen girls than the heavenly dream of finding the perfect boyfriend that is literally an angel or at least angel related, despite all the angst and probable family issues it brings. Angels and Demons was another huge trend, as a subcategory of the paranormal and fantasy genres. Angels were all the rage, with the building of backstories, describing those beautiful wings and the challenges of falling in love with an angel – an angel who might’ve literally fallen out of heaven and fallen for you too. Demons played their part too of course, and some might say the mixed elements of angel and demon drama in The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare and the entire Shadowhunter Chronicles it triggered is what continues to make it the most successful angel themed YA book series to date.

A Recipe for a Utopia with a Dash of Science Fiction

Dystopian and science fiction was another massively successful trend that created many book to movie adaptations and loyal fandoms worldwide. The concept of different worlds and societies in the future gone wrong was fresh and thought-provoking for young adults. It sparked discussion on themes of identity, society, class, politics, power and different versions of reality in a unique way. It even had teenagers taking personality tests for which faction you’d be in (Divergent by Veronica Roth). The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is the obvious game-changing novel that began this trend with many more that preceded it like Matched by Ally Condie adding to the fuel.

Fantastic Female Fronted High Fantasy

Any current YA reader would have heard of Sarah J Maas at least once, since her Throne of Glass series was among the great number of amazing female fronted high fantasy series to influence YA books in the last few years. These fantasy books are packed with action, intricate world-building, a bit of romance here and there, and a wide cast of characters to choose your favourite from. The protagonists aren’t delicate ladies either but are strong women who won’t back down or give up the fight and inspire other young women everywhere. Not only do these high fantasy books create an addiction for more but they have also popularised sub-genres of faeries, assassins and dragons which are all current trends of today. These high fantasy books had so much imagination to offer and are still cult favourites in the YA high fantasy genre since they brought so much to love. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder brought gorgeous magic, An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir and Red Queen by Victoria Aveyard brought spies in disguise and Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo brought the most badass villain who likes to wear black. It is no wonder that this started a trend and is still successful to this day.

Retold Again and Again

Retellings have also become a trend in the last few years, with many more reaching beyond the usual Grimm Brothers fairy tales. While books based on these tales like Cinder by Marissa Meyer and A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J Maas, inspired by Cinderella and Beauty & The Beast respectively, are still extremely popular, there has been a great turnaround for alternatives. A unique and well-loved series by Rick Riordan is of course Percy Jackson & The Olympians series, which is based on Greek mythology. Other alternative inspiring retellings are The Wrath and The Dawn by Renee Ahdieh, a retelling of the Arabian Nights and Stormdancer by Jay Kristoff which is a retelling of Japanese mythology. These books have become quite popular and trending with readers because the innovation of having the same story retold in a different and new way that is fresh and well executed is very appealing. Let’s hope this trend doesn’t die out too fast and continues its minor reign within YA fantasy books.

The Diversity Movement

Diversity has become a huge issue with readers and within the publishing community as more people demanded and expressed their need for equal and widespread representations. Race, sexuality, disabilities and gender themes have been some of the issues young adults have been craving to read in YA Fiction so they can relate what they’re reading to who they are and their everyday lives. The huge push by readers for more diversity has been a slow and successful ongoing trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon and sure has gotten some incredible diverse novels out there for us to enjoy.

YA Trend Predictions for 2018

So, these are some of the trends that have occurred in the last decade, but what about what’s happening now? Currently many of the trends below are predicted to make it big and rise in popularity. The success of certain novels in these genres in the last year shows how future books in those same categories can truly boom.

Thrillers & Whodunnits

Novels like One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus and Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco in the last year has shown how powerful and addictive thrillers and mysteries can be, and this genre really seems like it’s about to take off especially because of the second rise in popularity of the book to TV adaptation of 13 Reasons Why by Jay Asher.