This month we’re getting a bit lighter with the color lavender! We’ve scoured our bookshelves to bring you this vibrant selection of books. You’ll find a lot of young adult here (purple and lavender are big in YA), and some adult selections as well that you’ll want to consider adding to your book shelf. Here are our May selections for Color Code Your TBR. Discover a new fun read by taking a peek at these books that are powerful and purple!
The Box in the Woods by Maureen Johnson
For fans of Stevie Bell and the Truly Devious series, The Box in the Woods brings the young detective back for more excitement. This time, Stevie and her friends take on summer camp and a serial killer.
How to Save A Life by Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke
Dom runs into his ex-fiancée Mia and he feels as if fate is stepping in so he asks her out. When Mia tragically dies on their date, Dom makes a wish to be able to save her. The next morning he wakes up and it’s the same day – he’s got his chance to save Mia, but day after day, Mia still meets her demise. Dom is frantic to figure out exactly ‘how to save a life’ in this suspenseful twist of a Groundhog’s Day story.
Fade into the Bright by Jessica Koosed Etting and Alyssa Embree Schwartz
When Abby tests positive for having the gene that may cause Huntington’s disease, she escapes to Catalina Island for the summer to get away. She doesn’t want anyone there to know her history, but she hadn’t planned on meeting Ben, who’s smart, easygoing… and curious.
All Kinds of Other by James Sie
Two boys, one who is cis, and one who is trans, meet at a new high school and there are instant sparks. Jules and Jack must navigate this relationship and decide whether to fly under the radar or claim their space in the world. The space they so rightfully deserve.
Cool for the Summer by Dahlia Adler
Lara has had a crush on Chase for all of high school and now he’s finally talking to her. But there may just be one thing standing in their way – a girl named Jasmine.
You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson
Liz has some hefty goals: get into Pennington College, play for their orchestra and become a doctor. When financial aid falls through for school, she sets her sight on a bigger plan – to win the title of prom queen, which also comes with a scholarship that will help her get to where she wants to be. However, she’s got some tough competition for queen when a new girl arrives.
Love and Other Moods by Crystal Z. Lee
When a turn of events leaves Naomi alone in China, she’s got to find her way on her own. A unique cast of characters enter this multi-layered coming-of-age story where Naomi will discover new relationships and new dreams, all set in the city of Shanghai.
Something Happened to Ali Greenleaf by Hayley Krischer
When Ali Greenleaf is raped by her crush Sean, his best friend Blythe steps in to make things right because she is sure that it is all just a misunderstanding. Blythe and Ali become friends and after Blythe shares her own personal story, but there may be more to her newfound interest in Ali.
People Like Her by Ellery Lloyd
If you’re obsessed with social media, check out this read. Famous mom instagrammer Emmy is being stalked by an obsessive follower, she’s losing her moral compass on social media, and her marriage is crumbling. A psychological suspense story about the dangers of social media and influencer culture, People Like Her will make you think twice about what you share online.
The Color Purple by Alice Walker
We couldn’t do a lavender list and leave out The Color Purple. Sisters Celie and Nettie grow up abused in rural Georgia. When Nettie escapes to Africa as a missionary, Celie is left behind and heads into an abusive marriage. Celie begins a twenty-year stretch of writing letters to God in an attempt of self-discovery. Throughout their time apart, Nettie writes to her sister and offers her unwavering support. Heartbreaking and uplifting, The Color Purple remains a classic.
