13 Must-Read Young Adult Books Out in November

Nov 19, 2016

Nothing says cozy night in like lighting a delightful fall candle and diving into an enchanting new read. After binge reading all of October’s hottest young adult books, we can hardly wait for November’s new releases. So without further ado, here are 13 new young adult books out this month… that we already have in our Amazon cart ;)

1. Girl Online: Going Solo by Zoe Sugg ($12): YouTube megastar Zoella quickly rose to literary fame whenshe beat out the likes of JK Rowling and EL James as the fastest selling debut author with Girl Online. Now in the third installment of the series, Zoella picks right back up where she left off after teenage ex-blogger Penny goes on tour with rocker boyfriend Noah… get ready for even more drama, folks!

2. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Original Screenplay by JK Rowling ($15): Soooo it is no surprise that we’ve had our calendars marked for the new Wizarding World movie since it was announced, but we ALSO can’t wait to get our hands on JK Rowling’s screenwriting debut in physical form. That’s right — this month you can get a hard-copy screenplay of Magizoologist Newt Scamander’s tumultuous time in New York City.

3. Heartless by Marissa Meyer ($13): Before the Queen of Hearts was terrorizing Wonderland, she was just a girl who wanted a love story of her own. Follow all of her crazy adventures before the story we all grew up with in this new twisted read.

4. This Is Our Story by Ashley Elston ($11): When five boys go hunting and only four return, their small town is noticeably astir. But when one teenage girl becomes determined to learn the truth and uncover what really happened, she finds waaay more than she bargained for.

5. Scythe by Neal Shusterman ($11): In a world where there is no disease, hunger or death, Scythes are the only ones who can end lives. In this fascinating new read, two young Scythe apprentices have to learn the “art” of killing… even if they resist.

6. The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon ($13): This isn’t your typical corny love story. Following the chance meeting of 17-year-old Natasha (who is 12 hours away from being deported to Jamaica) and Daniel, it will satisfy all of your lovey dovey cravings… without making you want to gag.

7. Dead Girls Society by Michelle Krys ($13): Longing to get out of her boring New Orleans suburb where everyone treats her like a child because of her cystic fibrosis, Hope jumps at the opportunity to play a mysterious game of tests and dares in this page-turning new thriller from Michelle Krys.

8. We Are Still Tornadoes by Michael Kun and Susan Mullen ($11): If you’re currently navigating the tricky time between high school and college, this book is a must-read. Set in the rocking ’80s, Scott and Cath’s epic adventures and delightfully real misadventures will surely captivate readers young and old.

9. You in Five Acts by Una LaMarche ($12): Una LaMarche’s latest blockbuster stars five students at the highest rated arts school in New York City who have to balance the stresses of competitive dancing and all the everyday drama of teenage life. Prepare for broken hearts and broken ankles, bibliophiles.

10. The Romantics by Leah Konen ($11): A story told by Love herself, this adorable tale will tug at your heartstrings and have you seeing rainbows and French bulldog puppies from the very first page. Yes, it really is that sweet.

11. Jess, Chunk and the Road Trip to Infinity by Kristin Elizabeth Clark ($12): Transgender teen Jess hasn’t seen her dad since she was a boy. But in order to finally come to terms with her true self, she takes a cross-country road trip with her best friend Chunk to attend her homophobic father’s wedding in this can’t-miss tale.

12. A Million Worlds With You by Claudia Gray ($12): The final installment of the Firebird trilogy, this alternative-dimension conclusion to the popular young adult series will have you simultaneously cheering, crying and gasping for air.

13. Timekeeper by Tara Sim ($18): In an alternative Victorian London, time is kept in check by magical clock towers. 17-year-old Danny is in charge of one of these clocks, but it’s notoriously faulty. Plus, his problems aren’t helped when he secretly falls in love with his male apprentice… let’s just say things are about to get tense.

What’s on your November to-read list? Tweet us by mentioning @BritandCo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

(Feature photo via Getty)

All 7 Harry Potter Books Will Be Reimagined In New Full-Cast Audiobook Productions

My niece just got done telling me, "Aunt Haley, I can't believe you've only seen the movies! The Harry Potter books are SO much better!" Obviously, I know she's right — everyone tells me the books are better, but I just can't seem to find the time to dig into what feels like such a massive literary undertaking. And while that probably sounds dramatic, I know I'm not alone, which is why I'm so excited about the upcoming Harry Potter audiobooks!

Varietyreports that Audible and Pottermore Publishing are set to release all seven book recordings with a mighty cast of actors for each character. While the beloved books and the incredible stories within won't change, we can't wait to see — or er, hear — what new life these actors breathe into them. Here's everything we know about the updated Harry Potter audiobooks!

Who's recording the new Harry Potter audiobooks?

Image via Warner Brothers Pictures

None of the voice actors for the Harry Potteraudiobooks have been announced yet. All we know is that there are 100+ actors involved in this exciting production.

When are the new Harry Potter audiobooks coming out?

Image via Warner Brothers Pictures

According to Variety we'll get these new Harry Potter audiobooks in "late 2025." However, we won't get all seven audiobooks at once — each will come out sequentially.

Are there any other Harry Potter audiobooks?

Image via Audible

The original 1999 audiobooks, performed by Stephen Fry and Jim Dale are always a crowd favorite among Potterheads. Outside of the original books, Audible has other audiobooks available in the Harry Potter universe. They include:

“The Tales of Beedle the Bard” read by Jude Law
“Harry Potter: A History of Magic” read by Natalie Dormer
“Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” read by Eddie Redmayne
“Quidditch Through the Ages” read by Andrew Lincoln

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Header image via Warner Brothers Pictures

32 Irresistible Strawberry Desserts We Can’t Stop Eating

Once summer rolls around, strawberries take center stage, which means strawberry desserts are the highlight of the season. From classics like strawberry shortcake to innovative creations like strawberry s’mores, these 32 strawberry desserts push the boundaries of that fruity, juicy flavor we all know and love. Get ready to indulge!

Strawberry Freakshakes

Think of this recipe as your traditional strawberry milkshake, but leveled-up beyond compare. The "freak" label for these decadent shakes is entirely accurate, as they get loaded with sugar, ice cream, donuts, whipped cream, and of course, rainbow sprinkles. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Donuts

These strawberry donuts earn a healthy (or well, healthier) edge by using whole wheat flour, coconut oil, and Greek yogurt. Don't worry though – they're still as sweet as ever, and they'll be super tasty alongside some coffee for a nice morning treat! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Tart

This tart looks impressive, but it's not all that hard to execute. Get your hands on just 5 ingredients – store-bought pastry dough and custard help expedite the process – and you'll be well on your way to strawberry, dessert-y goodness. (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Chia Oatmeal Cookies

Turns out, you can eat cookies for breakfast! These strawberry-filled lil' bites serve as a quick power-up with fruit, oats, and chia seeds. You can even pack a few in your lunchbox for a healthy mid-day snack sesh. (via Brit + Co)

Boozy Chocolate-Covered Strawberries

These skewered strawberry desserts would make a fun Friday night activity to share with your boo! Simply soak some fresh berries in pink champagne overnight, then assemble them onto skewers before dipping them right into a dark chocolate bath and garnishing with more chocolate and crushed pistachios! (via Brit + Co)

Strawberry Lemon Cookies

Strawberries and lemons are a match made in flavor heaven, and these easy cookies (they only take 20 minutes) deliver a strawberry lemonade-type taste. Summer, here we come! (via The Edgy Veg)

Chocolate Strawberry Cake

We are salivating for this chocolatey cake! The cakey layers are quite simple to make, then you'll use fresh strawberries for the mid-layer and as a beautiful garnish. Don't you dare forget to add that creamy chocolate ganache! (via Give Recipes)

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry shortcake is an absolute classic! This recipe makes a few simple swaps (like whole wheat flour instead of regular, and maple syrup instead of white sugar) to make each and every bite a tad bit lighter than your traditional take. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

Dark Chocolate Strawberry S'mores

You haven't lived until you've tried putting fresh strawberries on your s'mores. Just look at that gooey goodness! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Peanut Butter Cake with Strawberry Frosting

Once you learn how to make this sweet strawberry frosting, you'll wanna put it on everything you make, from cupcakes to cookies. And yes, even this nutty peanut butter cake! Pile it on real high. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

The crunchy coating on these strawberry shortcake-inspired ice cream bars is exactly why you need to make them this summer. It's comprised of brown Rice Krispie pieces and freeze-dried strawberries to add some variety in texture, and wow, is it delicious! (via Half Baked Harvest)

Strawberry Rhubarb Pie

Rhubarb makes an excellent partner to strawberries. Case in point: this no-frills, uber-fresh pie with an impressive lattice crust! (via Completely Delicious)

Strawberry Cocoa

This sip is like if you combined a strawberry shake and hot chocolate into one. It's so dreamy! (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Chocolate Strawberry Hi-Hat Cupcakes

That cross-section, though! These rich chocolate cupcakes are piled high with strawberry Swiss meringue buttercream icing. Once they're iced, they're dipped in even more chocolate to form a satisfying outer shell. (via Butternut Bakery)

Strawberry Fudge with Marshmallow Fluff

These strawberry fudge bites are just perfect for a little Valentine's Day dessert. This recipe surely doesn't shy away from sugar! (via Where Is My Spoon?)

Chocolate-Covered Strawberry Matcha Madeleines

Matcha, chocolate, and strawberries?! We are totally swooning over these tiny strawberry desserts. While the madeleine cookies are soft and airy, the dark chocolate layer on the outside provides a nice crunch, contrasting the textures and flavors in each bite. (via The Original Dish)

Strawberry Cake Mix Brownies

Strawberry cake mix makes these strawberry desserts so much quicker, but they don't skimp on flavor at all. If you want to take things up a notch, try adding some fresh strawberries on top! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Strawberry Rice Krispie Treats

These Rice Krispie treats would make our child selves go crazy. You'll only need four ingredients to make 'em: freeze-dried strawberries, cereal, marshmallows, and butter, so they're a good dessert to make if you don't have a lot of ingredients on-hand and don't feel up to baking! (via The Endless Meal)

Chocolate Strawberry Mock-tini

This non-alcoholic, dairy free martini is decadence at its finest. You'll create your very own chocolate coconut simple syrup before concocting a mix of cashew milk, strawberries, and swirls of melted chocolate. (via Chef Bai)

Chocolate Fudge Brownies with Strawberry Jam

We all need more brownie recipes in our life, right? These rich bars are instantly elevated by a homemade strawberry jam that you'll likely have leftovers of to put on toasts, sandwiches, and more strawberry desserts! (via Two Spoons)

Strawberry Cheesecake Stuffed French Toast

Although this recipe's a bit more breakfast-y, it still qualifies as dessert in our minds because it's loaded to the brim with a super-sweet cream cheese filling and sweetened strawberries worthy of the dessert table. Plus, there's plenty of syrup to go around! (via Live Eat Learn)

Homemade Strawberry Pop Tarts

These strawberry desserts are snack-worthy in the morning, afternoon, and as a late night snack, of course! If you thought store-bought Pop Tarts were good, just wait 'til you make them for yourself with fresh strawberries. (via Crowded Kitchen)

Strawberry Cheesecake Vatrushka Buns

The strawberry cheesecake filling stuffed into these airy buns is to die for! Prep a batch for a fun cafe-themed party, or keep the half-dozen all to yourself for morningtime bliss. (via Vikalinka)

Strawberry Banana Bread

Banana bread is a total lifesaver when it comes to using those overripe bananas sitting out on your counter, and it gets even better once strawberries enter the mix! This recipe is moist, sweet, and perfect as a little treat. (via Averie Cooks)

Vegan Strawberry Cupcakes

Looking for vegan strawberry desserts? Your search is over with these vegan strawberry cupcakes covered in vegan whipped cream. Add some more fresh berries for full effect! (via Earthly Provisions)

Strawberry Scones

Dare to make your local coffee shop jealous with these homemade scones using strawberries. Once you're done baking them, you'll cover each one with a delicious strawberry cream cheese frosting for maximum flavor. (via Most Hungry)

Strawberry Rhubarb Galette

Sweet galette recipes are our weakness. They're so sweet and shareable, plus this one in particular is a good way to start using all your farmer's market produce! (via Amanda Wilens)

2-Ingredient Strawberry Banana Ice Cream

Simply blend some frozen strawberries and bananas together, and you've got a sweet treat that can fulfill your cravings for creamy ice cream! For even more dessert vibes, top this recipe with sprinkles, Oreos, or chocolate syrup, Or all three. We'd do it, too. (via Rachel Mansfield)

Strawberry Chocolate Mint Smoothies

The addition of mint leaves takes this sweet sipper to a whole new level. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Strawberry Jelly No-Bake Cheesecake

Have you ever seen a cheesecake so beautiful?! Plus, this one requires zero baking, making it the perfect pick for hot summers. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Strawberry Macarons

If you're up to the challenge, making macarons yourself can be so rewarding. Each of these little sweet sandwiches is filled with strawberry jam and a cheesecake-inspired icing. (via Barley & Sage)

Vegan Fruity Pebble Cheesecake

Colorful, fruity, and sweet? Say no more. This Fruity Pebbles cheesecake just earned the top spot on our "to-bake" list!(via No Eggs or Ham)

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Lead image via The Endless Meal.

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7 Binge-Worthy Short Story Collections For When You Need A Break From Novels

As no stranger to sifting through books to read and round up, it suddenly dawned on me that R.L. Stine's Fear Street series helped introduce me to the brilliance that are short story collections. There were several endearing elements about friendships in those books that I loved, but the horror and thriller aspects kept me on the edge of my seat. Now that I'm older (and more well-read), I realize that R.L. Stein isn't the only one killing the short story game — there are so many other talented authors who have unique and gripping tales to tell outside of novels.

I'd obviously be remiss if I didn't share some of the stunning short story collections I've found since then. Here are 7 amazing short stories that will have you edge of your seats, so be sure to grab your reading journal to jot them down! From learning how to love someone in spite of their flaws, reclaiming your life after heartache, and facing your fears before they swallow you completely, these stories truly have it all.

Short Story Collections To Read Right Now

No Diving Allowed by Louise Marburg

What lies beneath the surface of a pool's shimmery surface? It's something Louise Marburg seeks to answer with three short story collections in No Diving Allowed.

Two brothers are seemingly unable to move past tension that's followed them since their childhood in "Identical" and it's revealed how much this has taken a toll on them. On the other hand, "Let Me Stay With You" shows how assumptions can paint a negative picture of someone that's not true while "Minor Thefts" shines a glaring light on one family's drama.

The people found in this story are imperfect, but love still finds a way to help them stay afloat.

Have Mercy On Us by Lisa Cupolo

Have Mercy On Us is similar to No Diving Allowed, but the stories found in its pages focus more on people who are fighting to live a life that's meaningful to them. From an older man who's determined to rescue his son in Kenya to a woman who decides she's not going to let her spouse's infidelity crush her, these stories will change the way you look at love and forgiveness. You'll also feel a renewed call to choose how you want to live your life.

What It Means When a Man Falls from the Sky by Lesley Nneka Arimah

Short story collections are meant to grab your attention and sometimes they break your heart because their message is received long before their tale ends.

You'll meet a woman whose desperation for a child causes her to make a drastic decision, two teens who truly begin to see each other in a new light, and more characters who must come to terms with the roles they've taken on.

It'll only be a matter of time before you find yourself reaching for a few tissues while reading this book.

The Rock Eatersby Brenda Peynado

Brenda Peynado explores the relationship people have with being considered an outsider and how far people are willing to go for those they love. Whether from a personal or political standpoint, the characters you'll come across will make you shake your head in disbelief and have hope for them at the same time. You'll come across families who believe that worshipping angels is the answer to their prayers in one story and children whose ability to fly causes them to have a very close relationship with rocks.

There's hints of magic, mysticism, and the human ability weaved throughout each tale that we know you'll love.

The Thing Around Your Neckby Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has a beautiful way with words that makes it easy to get lost in her world. She uses The Thing Around Your Neck to help explain how men and women are more connected than they think, and she also explores the relationship parents have with their children.

It's a beautiful telling of how worlds can collide and whether it's worth trying to find common ground between two seemingly opposing things.

What Is Not Yours Is Not Yoursby Helen Oyeyemi

How do you handle the keys in your life and what would people find if they used them to unlock the doors they're designed for? In What Is Not Yours Is Not Yours, four sets of keys determine the fates of two lovers, someone who purposely closed themselves off from others, a mysterious house filled with locks, and a magical diary that's full of things that shouldn't be unlocked.

Four Past Midnight by Stephen King

You may want to read Four Past Midnight early in the morning because these short story collections are sure to give you nightmares. Four stories — One Past Midnight, Two Past Midnight, Three Past Midnight, and Four Past Midnight — make up the pages of Four Past Midnight and each of them are filled with horrifying scenarios that'll make your imagination run wild.

In One Past Midnight, a family finds themselves among a group of people who survive a terrifying plane experience only to realize their terror has just begun when they reach land again.

Two Past Midnight follows writer Mort Rainey's sad life as he deals with the fallout of his marriage in Tashmore Lake. He doesn't think things can get any worse until an imposing man named John Shooter starts making threats that take an evil turn.

Three Past Midnight details Sam Peebles' attempt to figure out what's going on in his mind and if he can stop what's threatening to come out before it's too late.

Four Past Midnight introduces readers to what happens when one man — Old Pop Merrill — decides to try to exploit a supernatural force he doesn't understand for profit.

For even more reading recs, be sure to check out our storefront to see all our fave books right now!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead images via Amazon

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Move Over "Gossip Girl" — "Friday Night Lights" Season 1 Is Peak TV

There are a number of TV shows in the running for best teen drama. I'm ready to press play on The Summer I Turned Pretty, One Tree Hill, and The Vampire Diaries at any given moment, but there is nothing like watching Friday Night Lights season 1. It might not be as glamorous as Gossip Girl, but that's exactly why it resonates so deeply when you watch it — FNL both highlights and honors viewers' real-world experiences because the characters are SO relatable. Instead of leaving you envious of a fictional life, Friday Night Lights welcomes you into a community you feel like you already know.

Image via NBC

Everyone in the fictional town of Dillon, Texas lives and breathes football, and Friday Night Lights season 1 opens just before the first game of the season. Right off the bat, we're introduced to characters that both evoke emotion and spark our curiosity, and we're told exactly where they are in their lives: new head coach Eric Taylor is struggling to win the town's confidence. Fullback Tim Riggins struggles both with motivation and against confident running back Smash Williams. All-American quarterback Jason Street has dreams of playing in the NFL while timid Matt Saracen takes care of his grandmother during the afternoon and serves as second-string quarterback at night.

Not to mention the fact that when I watched Friday Night Lights for the first time, I was pleasantly surprised by how compelling and multi-dimensional the women are. Tami Taylor has the perfect blend of motherly love and the kind of Southern sass that puts you in your place. Minka Kelly's Lyla Garrity is one of my favorite TV characters of all time because she might be wealthy and popular, but she evades "The Curse of the Brunette" that seems to plague early 2000s leading ladies. Instead of turning into a manipulative mean girl like the high school versions of Blair Waldorf and Brooke Davis, Lyla is just kind. Does she still make insanely bad decisions (like kissing her boyfriend's best friend)? Yes, but aren't bad decisions a right of passage when you're 17?

The show's initial plots and character arcs revolve heavily around football, but the sport really just serves as a funnel for all the off-field drama. The tension between the characters makes their gameplay even more passionate — and when Street gets seriously injured during that first game of the season, the town rallies together in a way that highlights how strong a community can bond in the face of tragedy.

Image via NBC

Life in middle-class America can be tough, but it can also be really, really sweet. While I'm neither from Texas nor have attended the kind of football school Dillon High is, the contrast between the characters' responsibilities and the fun that comes with parties and joining your friends at the local burger joint resonates with me every time I rewatch.

Even the fact the show is named Friday Night Lights emphasizes that contrast because it shows just how much of a spotlight is on these kids, and how much weight is on their shoulders when they're truly just trying to survive their teenage years.

Rather than providing an escape from viewers' realities like Outer Banks does, Friday Night Lights season 1 emphasizes the realities of juggling multiple jobs, school, and family responsibility that a lot of viewers experience too. It allows you to understand the characters in a really personal way — and feel like you're a part of the community too. The world can seem so big and scary (now more than ever), which is why the simplicity of Friday Night Lights totally redefines comfort TV.

What's your standout moment from Friday Night Lights season 1? Check out why Gilmore Girls Season 7 Wasn't Supposed To Be The Final Chapter for even more TV show musings!

Lead image via NBC

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15 Graduation Gifts Perfect For The Class Of 2024

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

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