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

“Wild and Crooked”

As communication systems evolve, people have become accustomed to talking to others who live far away. This is possible through modern technology and social media, which allows people on one side of the world to communicate with someone on the other side. In many ways, this has helped news spread beyond the boundaries that once kept news local. This diffusion of news can also influence how far ideas and opinions can spread. But while technology is often helpful, there can be times when the spread of news is viewed negatively. In “Wild and Crooked” by Leah Thomas, the two main characters have had their lives discussed and judged by people who don’t know them but who have read articles about them on the internet.

This book involves a murder, a mystery and some family drama.

When Kalyn moves into the town where her father murdered someone 20 years ago, she most adopt a new identity to stay safe. But Gus, who has cerebral palsy and a dead dad, decides the identity she keeps hidden is better than the one she made up. The two become close friends and together they uncover a mystery linked to a murder.

But this novel also discusses important topics, including introducing a character with cerebral palsy and one who discovers their sexuality, which allows readers to connect with characters who aren’t “typical.”

As the characters discover more about themselves and the lives they live, readers are swept into their journey. The story by Thomas keeps you reading and, when you finally finish, you’ll be satisfied but, at the same time, wishing for more.

Also this book is a stand-alone, so it’s perfect for those looking for a single book to take them through all the adventure that only some series possess.

Similar novels include “The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue” and “People Like Us.”

So if you’re interested in a mysterious and entertaining book, look for “Wild and Crooked” on bookshelves by June 4 or preorder at Once Upon A Time..

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.