Amina's Voice by Hena Khan

Hi everyone! Today, I just finished an amazing book that I have to share with you! It is called Amina’s Voice and it is written by Hena Khan, an award winning author! It came out this year, and so it is relatively new.

Amina is a Pakistani-American Muslim girl, who has a good life. She has a best friend, Soojin, a wonderful family, and a hidden talent. A talent for singing. A talent she shares with practically no one. Being in the spotlight is not something that she desires. So hidden her talent stays.

When Soojin becomes friends with a girl named Emily, Amina wonders if Soojin will soon leave Amina behind for Emily. Soojin starts to talk about changing her name, and other things about her so she is more “American”. Amina doesn’t know if she should be doing the same. When Amina’s uncle comes to visit from Pakistan, Amina starts to doubt herself even more.

The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin

Hi everyone! Have you ever heard of The Westing Game by Ellen Raskin? Well, it’s pretty famous. And I personally think that it is one of the best crafted mysteries, scratch that, books-- ever. Do you like mysteries? I do. And I especially liked this one.

I had read this book once with my dad when I was younger, but I didn’t remember much about it. Recently, I decided to read it again. Long story short-- I loved it! The photo I have here, is just ONE of the MANY covers for The Westing Game.

Most people would say that it all starts when the characters meet for the reading of Samuel W. Westing's will. I say it starts much sooner. Much sooner. To understand what I am about to tell you, I must explain a little about the story. Just a little-- no spoilers, I promise.

Journeys from Ayrden (1) A Clearing in the Forest by Kim Love Stump

Hi again! A little over a month ago, I read a really good book that I would like to recommend to you. It is the debut novel in a series called Journeys from Ayrden written by Kim Love Stump. The first book in the series is called A Clearing in the Forest. Intriguing title? I sure thought so!

A Clearing in the Forest is about Princess Adrianna, who lives in the kingdom of Ayrden. When she reaches sixteen, it is required for her to go on a journey into the woods or rather, the unknown--alone, apart from her stallion Sultan. Sultan has been trained not only to protect her, but to be her constant companion on her journey of birthright. Not all royals make it back alive, but Adriana is determined to make it back home safely. Adrianna has trained for her journey since she was young, and she believes that she is more than capable to make it back home, and that is EXACTLY what she intends to do!

In the woods Adrianna must prove her worth against the dangers she finds, and must venture into uncharted lands, where trees shift positions, pathways are made of gold, and dragons exist!