Teen Buzz

Reviews

A Great Chaos [Deluxe] by Ken Carson

Review by Shravan V.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

Note: please be aware that the album contains explicit content and language

Ken Carson’s A Great Chaos is a fully committed dive into the rage-rap world he’s been shaping over the past few years. This album is full of chaos, and pure energy as the album’s name suggests. This was his breakout album, as his previous album, “Project X” gained him some attention, while this album really put his name out there into the rap world. I would say that the deluxe part of the album is really well done and not rushed.

I would say that the album’s main focus is the production and vocal aspects. The chaos and raw energy are enough to overpower any lyrics that may have felt diminishing to the overall project. After all, this album was his breakout album for a reason. Tracks like “Jennifer’s Body,” “Fighting My Demons,” and “ss” stood out for their flows. Although a fair warning should be issued that it may not blend very well for casual listeners, and they might not find it very pleasing.

My personal review would be that it is one of the best rage albums in recent years. I would recommend this to any fans of rage music, by artists such as Playboi Carti or Trippie Redd. Its chaos, energy and production are the factors that make it so addicting for me. My personal favorite track was “ss”, as it’s such a loopable song that I could listen to forever.

The Cartoonists Club by Raina Telgemeier

Review by Ashley M.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

The Cartoonists Club is a graphic novel about a group of students who start a club dedicated to
creating comics, sharing ideas, and encouraging each other to grow as artists. The story follows
the characters as they struggle with confidence, deadlines, and creative blocks, all while trying
to support one another as friends. I liked how the book shows that creativity can be messy and
stressful, but also fun and rewarding when shared with people who understand you.

The illustrations are bright and expressive, which makes it easy to connect with the characters
and their emotions. I enjoyed watching each student develop their own art style and learn to
trust their abilities. The book also has a positive message about teamwork, trying new things,
and finding your own voice.

I would recommend this graphic novel to readers who enjoy stories about creativity, friendship,
and the challenges of being an artist. It’s a relatable and inspiring read for anyone who loves
drawing or comics.

Kristy’s Great Idea by Raina Telgemeier, based on the work of Ann M. Martin (The Babysitter’s Club Graphic Novel #1)

Review by Ashley M.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

Kristy’s Great Idea is the first graphic novel in the Baby-Sitters Club series, and it tells the story
of how four friends—Kristy, Mary Anne, Claudia, and Stacey—come together to form their
babysitting business. The book shows what each girl is dealing with in her personal life, from
school stress to family changes, and how these things affect their friendships. I really liked how
the graphic novel format brings their personalities to life through expressive drawings, which
makes the story easy to follow and fun to read.

I enjoyed this book because the characters feel realistic, especially in how they disagree
sometimes but still support each other. The story has a warm and comforting tone that made me
want to keep reading. Even though it’s set in middle school, the topics of teamwork,
responsibility, and communication feel relatable at any age. I think readers who enjoy stories
about friendship, everyday challenges, and positive messages would really like this graphic
novel. It’s a great introduction to the series and made me want to read the rest of the books.

The Club: How the English Premier League Became the Wildest, Richest, Most Disruptive Force in Sports by Joshua Robinson and Jonathan Clegg

Review by Shravan V.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

“The Club: How the English Premier League Became the Wildest, Richest, Most Disruptive Force in Sports,” is an informative and entertaining book on how the Premier League grew from a struggling football league into a sports giant. Robinson and Clegg explain the key steps in that transformation which include, bold business moves, wealthy new owners, and big TV deals — in a way that’s easy to follow and engaging. They blend behind-the-scenes stories, humour, and clear explanations so even the technical parts never feel slow, showing how the league’s rise reshaped football and modern sports worldwide.
Personally, this is one of the most enjoyable non-fiction books I’ve read. The authors do a great job breaking things down without ever making it sound very complicated or technical. What really surprised me were the middle chapters. I genuinely thought the middle would be the most boring part of the book, but it ended up being the most entertaining — full of unexpected stories, surprising decisions, and moments that made me appreciate the Premier League’s rise. I have to admit, I’ve reread this book at least three times, and the middle parts are what I go straight to first, but that doesn’t mean I find the starting and ending boring. My favorite chapter was when they talked about the rise of Manchester City.

I’d recommend The Club to any football or sports fans who are curious about how big leagues actually operate behind the scenes. It’s also a great read for anyone interested in business, leadership, finance, and how big of an impact they have on sports.

The Court of the Dead by Rick Riordan and Mark Oshiro (Nico Di Angelo Adventure #2)

Review by Maham F.

4 Bees: Lit (Really Good) 

Court of the Dead is the sequel to The Sun and The Star and one of the newest additions to the Riordanverse (collection of all of Rick Riordan’s percy jackson-related books). The book takes the reader on a journey along with Nico Di Angelo on teaching others how to accept change and accept new ideas. Connecting old enemies, and new friends, this book strategically keeps readers captivated. I loved this book because I’m a long time fan of Rick Riordan’s books and Nico DI Angelo has been one of my favorite book characters ever since he was first introduced into the series. Throughout the span of 10+ books, we have watched him struggle with accepting himself due to a number of ideologies that were fed to him. Now, he’s finally broken free and it’s time for him to pass on the torch to someone else. His growth cannot go unnoticed. The book teaches great lessons concerning the path to acceptance and sheds light on a lot of real life issues, such as racism. This book is great for fans of Greek/Roman mythology and action.

The Dangerous Gift by Tui T. Sutherland (Wings of Fire #14)

Review by Côme A.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

Throughout the series “Wings of Fire”, we learn some valuable lessons, and we I mean we; I mean the readers. The main reason I love the series so much is because of what it brings, lessons like the consequences of war, the benefits of finding peaceful solutions to all sorts of problems and how treating different people (in this case dragons) is not fair to others and only causes more problems. The reason I chose this specific book is to show that just because something new appears or arrives, you don’t have to be violent or start panicking but instead should try to handle it the best you could with what you have. These stated elements are all visited throughout the book as well as the series and I personally think that these lessons are immensely valuable to all future generations and I especially love how the author implicates these hidden messages all while keeping this a fictional story.

The Queen of Nothing by Holly Black (Folk of the Air #3)

Review by Zainab F.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

The Queen of Nothing is so far one of the best books I have come across, perfectly mixing fantasy, romance,
politics, and adventure. The main character, Jude Duarte is a strong female protagonist who now has power
over everyone, but many are trying to take it away from her. This is a great read if you love the themes
mentioned above, but it can get a bit confusing sometimes especially if you didn’t read the two other books in
the series, but overall my favorite book yet.

The Wicked King by Holly Black (Folk of the Air #2)

Review by Zainab F.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

The sequel to the Cruel Prince by Holly Jackson, this novel dives into further faerie politics as Jude tries to take
control over the kingdom, as she now has power over the prince, Cardan Greenbriar. She soon learns that with
great power comes great responsibility as she faces many challenges and obstacles, such as Madoc trying to
take over. This book is a perfect blend of Fantasy, politics, rivalry, romance (enemies-lovers), and adventure. I
would highly recommend this novel as it was a very intriguing read and I could not help but keep reading as the
suspense kept me excited.

Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros (The Empyrean #1)

Review by Tomini O.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

This book is one of my favorite books of all time, and the first book to my favorite or 2nd favorite series. This book is able to catch your attention from the first page, and we immediately care for the protagonist, Violet Sorrengail. This a romantasy book, so it has fantasy and romance. It also has dragons, and lots of fighting and combat. I loved the romance, but it isn’t even my favorite thing about the story (or my favorite couple). My favorite thing is the worldbuilding, and all the
(side) characters you learn to care about, and feel deeply for. This book keeps you on the edge of your seat, because it is a story where “no one is safe,” which strays away from the “heroes always winning at end” common theme or reassurance in media, especially as you continue to read the series, which currently has 3 books available as of 2025. This is a book that I recommend that you read the other 2 as well, as the plot twists keep coming and things and details you thought were small and likely did not notice always come back later so beware. My only warning is this is definitely a NA not exactly YA story, and I’d only recommend it to 15/16+, and mature teenagers. This is because it does include 2 explicit scenes. The romance DOES NOT include an annoyingly stereotypical “Alpha Male”, who doesn’t let the protagonist do anything. Instead, we can see Violet be strong and brave, fail a lot but also learn. This is a very hyped and known book, but IT DESERVES IT. I wish I could read this book again, and am forever envious of all those who can experience it for first time but also so excited for everyone
who does!! I RATE THIS BOOK 5/5 STARS.

Legendborn by Tracy Deonn (The Legendborn Cycle #1)

Review by Tomini O.

4.9 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!)

This book is the start to one of my favorite series. It is definitely for people who are into fantasy and romantic subplots, with fantasy/magic that is hidden in the real world. It also includes some amazing and educational conversations and a spotlight on issues like racism and sexism, naturally, as it is something the protagonist Bree experiences. I loved this book so much once I truly got into it, as to me it felt like a slow start. The book starts with action even after a prologue,
but it took a bit for me to fully understand and care about Bree extremely, though I was invested in the mystery presented at the start of the story. I love how Tracey Deonn (the author) used real-life history and experiences and bled it into this novel. There are so many amazing plot twists, and be ready to have many people you’ll root for as there are so many amazing side characters. This was a 4.9-star read for me (the -0.1 star because of the slightly slow-to-care start).

Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins (Hunger Games #5)

Review by Prabh Noor S.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

The recent addition to the unmatched, classic novel series, The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, evidently holds up to the high standard set by the original books — and quite possibly surpass it. Collins masterfully returns to District 12 and Panem with all the tension, insight, and emotional depth that constructed the unforgettable plots of the first books. However, the narrative takes place 24 years before the events of the initial trilogy, in the 50th Hunger Games, unlocking the complex backstory of a fan-favourite character: Haymitch Abernathy.

This prequel does not simply revisit the Games; it reframes them, showcasing the Capitol’s tightening grip, President Snow’s true nature — which, as readers, we have seemed to have forgotten — and the ways in which each tribute’s trauma becomes a quiet rebellion. Haymitch’s behaviour in the primary novels is not only justified, but instead transformed into something deeply tragic and understandable. His most prominent traits — detachment, cynicism, and alcoholism — are no longer merely character flaws; they are survival and coping mechanisms born from the horrors he endured. Through Haymitch, the author reminds us that no victor leaves the arena, which is as terrifying and creatively constructed as ever — they may physically survive the monstrosities, yet they are forever scarred mentally — and rebellion often begins not with fire, but instead with subtle, devastating resistance and failure.

I genuinely enjoyed how this book balances suspense with intense emotion. Collins excels at making political commentary feel personal and relatable to present day circumstances, and every twist kept me wholly hooked. I firmly recommend Sunrise on the Reaping to fans of the original series and anyone seeking a story that challenges, shocks, and stays with you for a lifetime.

As Good as Dead by Holly Jackson (A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder #3)

Review by Prabh Noor S.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

As Good As Dead by Holly Jackson is undoubtedly one of the best teen murder books written, and my personal favourite. In this narrative, this time, the main character is not merely solving a case; she is the target of one.

The story picks up after the previous two books, and Pip Fitz-Amobi, the protagonist of the trilogy, is 18 years old and about to head to college. Readers are met with the opportunity to explore the results of solving labyrinthine and disturbing crimes at such a tender age, where Pip is struggling to deal with her emotions and the trauma she ignores. Just as she believes things are winding down, Pip begins to notice strange signs, or warnings; she is being stalked. When authorities again ignore her concerns, she starts digging on her own and uncovers a much bigger and darker secret than she expected.

This final book is much more intense and emotional than the rest. Pip’s character development is undoubtedly one of the best parts, as one unravels all that she has truly been through and how it has changed her; she is no longer the girl from book one. Her decisions, although intense and sometimes shocking, permit the reader to pause and truly understand the pressures she has faced and the sacrifices she has made.

The slightest details from throughout the trilogy served as the foundation of a well-thought-out plot, which allowed the suspense to build at ease; I could not put the book down. I appreciated how the tone shifted from a mystery into more of a psychological thriller, allowing the story to feel fresh and unpredictable. I would strongly recommend As Good As Dead to anyone who enjoys true crime, mystery, and characters that feel truly real. It is a dark yet brilliant ending to a truly unforgettable series.

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

Review by Abiha F.

4 Bees: Lit (Really Good) 

In Fahrenheit 451 , Ray Bradbury creates a dystopian world where books are burned, intellectual freedom is suppressed, and technology replaces human connection. Through powerful literary techniques such as imagery, symbolism and tone, Bradbury explores the consequences of censorship and conformity. One of the most impactful tools he uses is imagery, which enhances the emotional depth of the story and the reader’s understanding of the protagonist’s conflicts. As the plot unfolds, Bradbury’s rich descriptions help portray a society stripped of individuality and Guy Montag, the protagonist, whose inner transformation becomes central to the narrative. The Mechanical Hound symbolizes fear and technological control and fire evolves from a symbol of destruction to one of hope. Bradbury’s writing style encourages the audience to reflect on their own world. Through the masterful use of literary devices, Fahrenheit 451 remains a powerful and thought-provoking novel.

The Chrysalids by John Wyndham

Review by Abiha F.

4 Bees: Lit (Really Good) 

As people navigate through harsh societal expectations, they are often forced to conceal their true selves out of fear, secrecy, and survival. In The Chrysalids , by John Wyndham, a dystopian world is explored where deviants are feared and punished, forcing characters to hide their true selves. Set in the rigid society of Waknuk, the novel follows individuals who question expectations on their journey of self-acceptance. Through the characters of David, Sophie, and Petra, Wyndham portrays factors that shape identity and the eventual realization that their differences are a strength. The characters undergo conflicts as they wrestle with a strict society and their desire to embrace uniqueness through connection with others like them, ultimately redefining humanity.

The Chrysalids is a great science-fiction novel recommendation, especially for those interested in post-apocalyptic settings and themes including intolerance and identity.

The Greatest Showman

Review by Cadance L.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

The Greatest Showman is an amazing movie about accepting yourself for who you are and not worrying about what others think of you despite what they call your “faults.”

The movie focuses on a man named P.T. Barnum who suffers poverty and disapproval from the upper class his whole life. Throughout the story, he tries to make a better life for his family, and with help from his daughters, he decides to create a show filled with “oddities.” His show eventually became extremely popular, but there are people who call the circus acts “freaks.” Eventually, Barnum starts to become obsessed with trying to get the upper class’ approval that
he neglects his own family and circus.

I would recommend this movie to anyone who likes great visuals like fancy costumes, and to those who want to see a unique and interesting movie. I think that it’s a great movie that both adults and kids can enjoy, however, older audiences may understand the deeper meaning of the story while younger audiences may enjoy the fantastic songs and visual elements.

Overall, I think that it’s a really good movie with a wonderful message and story.

The Hawthorne Legacy by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (Inheritance Games #2)

Review by Zainab F.

4 Bees: Lit (Really Good) 

The Hawthorne Legacy is a novel packed with mystery, adventure, rivalry, friendship, and romance. It is the second book in the series of The
Inheritance Games. Jennifer Lynn Barnes sets the book with the ongoing mystery of fnding Avery’s grandfather as she navigates her complex
feelings between James and Grayson Hawthorne. Although, the plot gets perplexing sometimes so you have to pay extra attention, but overall a
warm and inviting read to anyone who enjoys the themes listed above. I would rate this book 4/5 stars.

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton

Review by Zainab F.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton is a fantastic read. It starts off with a young orphaned boy, Ponyboy, who lives with his two brothers Soda Pop and
Darry, and together they are in a gang with some friends. They live in a neighborhood that divides the socs – the upper class rich kids, and the
greases, the poor kids. On his way home from the movies, the adventurous story of friendship and thriller begins when Ponyboy runs away
from home with his friend, Johnny after being attacked by the Socs. This is a really interesting read, and I would rate it 5/5 to anyone who’s
looking for an emotional rollercoaster.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Review by Cadance L.

4 Bees: Lit (Really Good) 

The Great Gatsby is set in the 1920s and told from the perspective of Nick Carraway. The book revolves around Jay Gatsby, a mysterious but wealthy man who was born into poverty, and his love for Daisy Buchanan, a rich woman. However, Daisy is now married to Tom Buchanan, a
man born into wealth and status, whom she chose over Gatsby in their youth because of his money. Still, Gatsby is determined to win Daisy over with his newfound wealth. Throughout the book, Nick meets new characters, some rich and some poor, before finally realizing the shallowness of the upper class.

There are many main themes in the story, and I think that the theme of “rich vs. poor” is very well written. I especially enjoyed how the theme of “money can’t buy happiness” was reflected in the characters’ lives, especially Daisy and Gatsby. One thing to note is that there is some difficult language in the book, since it was written in the 1920s.

Overall, I would recommend the Great Gatsby to anyone who enjoys a story with flawed characters, likes to decipher the deeper meaning of a story or wants to read a story with an
unexpected ending.

Dance of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson (Dance of Thieves #1)

Review by Zainab F.

2 Bees: Vanilla (Meh)

Dance of Thieves by Mary. E Pearson is a young adult fantasy novel. The characters are dynamic with interesting personalities, and the conflicts
between them is an interesting read. However, the overall vibe and story pace of the book was a bit slow, and it got confusing at times. The
story ending is good though, and wraps everything up in a nice way.

Powerless by Lauren Roberts (Powerless #1)

Review by Zainab F

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

Powerless by Lauren Roberts is an amazing read. It’s a young adult fantasy novel about a kingdom filled with people, known as elites,
possessing magical powers gifted to them after a plague wiped out hundreds of people. In the kingdom of Ilya, those born without powers,
known as Ordinaries, were banished. The main character Paedyn, is a remarkable young and strong women who shares a dual POV with the
main love interest, Kai Azer. The story has many intriguing plot twists and I would overall recommend this to anyone with a passion for reading
romance and fantasy

We Keep the Dead Close by Becky Cooper

Review by Avalee J

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!) 

Becky Cooper’s reimagining of the atrocities that took place on Harvard’s campus in 1969 is
sure to keep you hooked. We follow Cooper as she uncovers the school’s deepest secrets,
unraveling the truth right along with her. From whispered myths to first-hand accounts, you feel
as if you are investigating alongside the Harvard alumni as she struggles to pick up the clues
from a long-lost murder case. Prepare to be on the edge of your seat at each page while
reading Becky Cooper’s best-selling book We Keep the Dead Close.

The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (Inheritance Games #1)

Review by Katelyn S.

4 Bees: Lit (Really Good) 

The book inheritance games is the first book in a 3 book series. It focuses on Avery Grambs, a high school student with a bad home life and nothing in her wallet. So you can take it as a shock when she finds out that a man she has never met passed away and happened to leave his fortune of billions of dollars with his massive mansion to her. When forced to then move in with his grandsons the Hawthorne brothers, she faces challenges day after day. This book is full of mysteries and riddles. You as the reader have no idea who or what to trust, this book was impossible to put down. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time and bought the next 2 books the day after I finished it. If you love mysteries with a bit of romance and heartbreak this is a great book for you. For me this book is a 4/5 and is one of my favorite books to pick up once and a while. A great book with short yet exciting chapters.

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson (Good Girl’s Guide to Murder #1)

Review by Zainab F.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!)

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson is the perfect mystery thriller book for a cozy read. This book revolves around a tragic case that happened five years ago in their town, where Andie Bell was “supposedly” murdered by her boyfriend, Sal Singh, who then later was found dead. Pippa Fitz-Amobi, a senior highschool student who is determined to prove Sal Singh’s innocence, goes on a quest with Ravi Singh to uncover the dark secrets of the case. This was a very interesting read, and I enjoyed seeing how the story played out along with the plot twists and comedic relief. The characters were unique and stood out in their own ways, with many intriguing conflicts. Overall, I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mystery, suspense, and thriller.

And check out out our program Mystery & Mayhem: A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder Interactive Experience coming up this March Break 2025! 

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black (Folk of the Air #1)

Review by Zainab F.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!)

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black is one of the best books I’ve come across. The story is set in a fantasy world where a brave young woman, Jude, must find her way through all the fae. It perfectly combines action, thriller, romance, and politics to make an intriguing story. Each character has its own unique personality, and there are numerous surprises in this book that contribute to the overall suspense. There are so many interesting conflicts, from family tension to political rivalries. This story is truly inspiring and perfectly captures the feeling of being “powerless” and “not fitting in.” Instead of fitting in, Jude stands out by proving all the people that looked down upon her wrong. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys suspense, romance, and fantasy. Overall, an amazing book and I wish I could read it for the first time again.

Better Than the Movies by Lynn Painter (Better Than the Movies #1)

Review by Katelyn S.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!)

Better than the Movies by Lynn Painter lives up to its name, it’s better than most romcoms I have watched or read. The story of wes and liz was such a funny emotional ride. It’s one of my favorites as you get really relatable and funny characters. The story keeps you hooked and the ending leaves you feeling warm inside. Overall it’s a great read if you just want to read something that leaves you feeling happy. It’s a great YA romance book, this book is a 5/5 for me.

The Ballad of Never After by Stephanie Garber (Once Upon a Broken Heart #2)

Review by Katelyn S.

5 Bees: The GOAT (I Loved It!)

The Ballad of Never After by Stephanie Garber was an amazing book. I felt in touch with the characters and loved seeing how their personalities developed. This book made me laugh, cry and scream all at the same time. It’s the book that got me out of a reading slump and was worth reading. If you loved the first book Once Upon a Broken Heart you’ll love this one. The plot twists and ending where things I could never have expected nor did I see them coming. It’s a great YA fantasy romance. 5/5 stars for me.

Scythe by Neal Shusterman (Arc of a Scythe #1)

Review by Ananth S.

4 bees: Lit (Really good)

Neal Shusterman’s Scythe is a dystopian young adult novel, and it tells the tale of a futuristic society where death has been completely cured and the only way a human can die is by the method of “gleaning” (a fancy word for murder). Only the appointed “Scythes” of this world can glean people. This specific story follows two teenagers, Citra and Rowan, and their adventure of becoming a scythe themselves.

Something that really captivated me throughout the story was the consequences of immortality that were seen within the story. As time goes on within the story, you begin to slowly understand how immortality can change someone, and change a person. Especially if they are a Scythe themselves. That’s what two of my personal favorite characters, Scythe Faraday and Scythe Goddard show. Scythe Faraday is the mentor to Citra and Rowan, with him showing the two that although immortality is a gift, you can never let your guard down. While Scythe Goddard uses the immortality and powers of a Scythe to his advantage, which to him is ruthlessness and cruelty to all of his victims.

Despite this book having a very unique concept in mind, there are a few nitpicks I do have about the book itself. As you go further and further into the book, more and more plot points are added within the story, and it is very hard to keep track of which plot points are currently happening within the story. Another thing within the story which seemed to annoy most likely just me were the names. This story is supposed to take place in the far future of America. This does not mean you should have the name Tyger.

Even though, to a lot of people, this book could be considered “tedious”, “stereotypical” or even just “boring”, I found this story to be extremely captivating and interesting the entire way through, with the second book “Thunderhead” being just as captivating. Overall, I would give this book about a 4/5. Bordering on almost perfect, just a couple of small nitpicks which cause the score to be lowered. Would recommend it if you are a fan of The Hunger Games or Maze Runner.