Every month Crescenta Valley High School student Thalia Miller gives her perspective on some of today’s most popular and upcoming YA titles.

(review)

“Girls with Sharp Sticks”

In the past few centuries, women’s rights have been increasingly talked about in society. Movements, such as the Me Too Movement and the movement for pay equity for women, have been important topics of discussion for many people in the U.S. Many women have worked tirelessly to be recognized as equals and not only as objects meant to please the eye. A new novel, which came out last month, creates a modern-day world in which girls do not have the rights that millions of people have worked to achieve. The book, called “Girls with Sharp Sticks” by Suzanne Young, introduces readers to the Innovations Academy where young girls are developed into submissive, polite young women who listen to their superiors.

    The novel is filled with many twists and turns that take the main character, Mena, through an unexpected whirlwind that reveals ugly truths about her pretty world. As Mena walks through the Academy unaware of the progressive world around her, she begins to break the rules and question her teachings. With the help of her friends Jackson and Sydney, she is able to uncover the secrets Innovations Academy hides behind its perfect exterior. And as she works to discover the hidden knowledge kept within the walls of the Academy, Mena is faced with the difficulty of deciding who she can trust with knowledge she finds.

    This new novel is the first in a series and has been met with a very positive initial reaction. Readers love the plot twists and enjoy the deterioration of the oppressive society Mena faces. The great reaction is partially because Young has a large fan base from her other series “The Program.” That series, similar to this novel, creates a controversial world that expects everyone to act, and look, perfect. Both of Young’s works emphasize problems with our society today, and makes readers question if they, too, are falling into the trap set by present -day culture. Young’s book is a fantastic novel filled with mystery and suspense, so if you are looking to be swept up into an unforgiving storm of emotions, then look for “Girls with Sharp Sticks.”

Once Upon A Time, the nation’s oldest children’s bookstore, has this plus many more YA titles. Stop by the store at 2207 Honolulu Ave. in Montrose, call them at (818) 248-9668 or visit online at www.shoponceuponatime.com.