In a dystopian future where society has collapsed due to environmental and economic crises, a young woman named Lauren Olamina possesses a unique ability to feel the pain and pleasure of others. As she witnesses her community being torn apart by violence and religious fanaticism, Lauren embarks on a perilous journey to find a new safe haven and establish her own religion based on empathy and survival. Through her thought-provoking narrative, the book explores themes of resilience, spirituality, and the power of human connection in the face of adversity.

"Ramona" is a 19th-century novel that tells the tragic story of a young orphan girl of mixed Scottish and Native American descent living in Southern California after the Mexican-American War. Raised in a Spanish rancho, Ramona faces discrimination and hardship due to her heritage. The novel follows her passionate love affair with Alessandro, a Native American man, and their struggles against the racial injustices and societal prejudices of the time. Through their poignant journey, the book highlights the mistreatment of Native Americans and the impact of cultural conflicts, ultimately serving as a powerful critique of the social policies and practices of the era.

The book centers around a high school senior of Korean-American descent who struggles with the expectations of his traditional parents and his own Southern California upbringing. Caught between his parents' desire for him to date a Korean girl and his own romantic interest in a non-Korean classmate, he embarks on a fake relationship with a family friend facing similar pressures. This arrangement, meant to appease their parents, leads to a complex journey of self-discovery, as he navigates the challenges of identity, love, and friendship in a multicultural landscape.

"Front Desk" by Kelly Yang is a heartwarming and empowering middle-grade novel that follows the story of Mia Tang, a ten-year-old Chinese immigrant who helps her parents manage a motel in America. Despite facing discrimination and financial struggles, Mia finds solace in her passion for writing and her determination to fight for justice. With themes of resilience, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right, this book explores the challenges and triumphs of an immigrant family striving to build a better life.