As part of the book selection committee for Westchester’s Battle of the Books trivia competition, I spent January and February reading and considering books for the 2020 reading list. Librarians across Westchester nominated titles for the teen division and I tried to read as many as possible. While this year’s reading list hasn’t yet been finalized, I had so much fun with the nominated titles that I wanted to share a few of my favorites. These are all available in eBook format through Westchester Library System.

Hot Dog Girl by Jennifer Dugan
Libby: eBook only
A very light summer romance set in a small town’s amusement park.

Warcross by Marie Lu
Libby: eBook and digital audiobook
A thrilling virtual reality online gaming adventure reminiscent of Ready Player One. And there’s a sequel!

Picture Us in the Light by Kelly Loy Gilbert
Libby: eBook only
Hoopla: Digital audiobook
A high school senior discovers a family secret that changes everything. This one was a pretty emotional read, and after finishing, I really wanted to discuss it with someone.

The Hired Girl by Laura Amy Schlitz
Libby: eBook only
Set in the early 1900’s, a girl leaves her overbearing father’s farm to work as a servant in a wealthy Baltimore household. The book reads like a journal, cataloging experiences both humorous and meaningful.

I’ll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson
Libby: eBook only
Twins Jude and Noah take turns narrating this book, from points in time on either side of a pivotal event. This 2015 Printz Award winner unfolds beautifully and remains one of my all-time favorites.

Patron Saints of Nothing by Randy Ribay
Libby: eBook only
Jason learns that his cousin has been killed in the Philippines and embarks on a quest to find out what happened.

Stepsister by Jennifer Donnelly
Libby: eBook only
Hoopla: audiobook
Cinderella, retold from the point of view of a wicked stepsister.

The Field Guide to the North American Teenager by Ben Philippe
Libby: eBook only
Hoopla: Digital audiobook
A socially awkward sweaty black Canadian guy moves to Texas and navigates his new surroundings with sarcastic commentary. Funny–one of my favorite books of the year, and just won the Morris Award.