YALSA Hub Challenge Part 3

So since the last post, I have finished 3 more books from the Challenge. Officially this means it is complete, but I'll probably try to read a few more, if I can.



The Book of Dust vol. 1: La Belle Sauvage by Philip Pullman; read by Michael Sheen (Odyssey Award)

In a prequel to the original Mortal Instruments series, we learn how Lyra came to Jordan College and meet some people who influenced her very, very early life. She is an infant here, so the story primarily concerns two young teens who help her survive a flood and a dangerous man, Malcolm and Alice. The narrator for the book is quite good. I like this every bit as much as The Golden Compass. I didn't think I would be sucked back into the world but I truly was. Can't wait for the next book.



Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March by Lynda Blackmon Lowery; read by Damaras Obi (Amazing Audiobooks for Teens)

Moving first-hand account of a turbulent time in American history (one we sadly seem to be repeating). The reader was amazing, esp. when she sang the songs at the beginning and end. The appendix that details significant people that the author encountered during the march was well researched and appropriately detailed.



I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sanchez (National Book Award)

Technically this one wasn't included in the Hub Challenge, but it should be.

Julia's perfect older sister dies unexpectedly and now her parent's seem to think she should take her place in their home. But Julia is not her sister and she suspects that her sister wasn't as perfect as she appeared to be.

At times Julia seems a bit whiny but this seems authentic to her age, situation and mental illness. I was surprised several times near the end and moved by the life experiences of many of the characters.