March tramples the competition

March written by John Lewis, Andrew Aydin, and illustrated by Nate Powell is a compelling and honest story about John Lewis' struggle for civil and human rights.  It is a powerful group of books as the story is personal and relevant to current world realities.  The illustrations capture the essence of the tumultuous time and readers have the opportunity to navigate a heavy topic through a different writing style.  I have never been drawn to graphic novels, but the topic and story was so strong that I was willing (and able) to overcome my reservations about the format.

Burn Baby Burn by Meg Medina is set in New York city in 1977.  A serial killer is on the loose and Nora, a hard working industrious 17 year old is navigating work,  completing high school, emotionally supporting her Mom and trying to cover up for her younger brother who is involved with illegal drugs.  Add to this mix, a handsome boy who becomes Nora's boyfriend and you have quite a dramatic read.  I "cheered" on Nora in the hopes that she would find a path for the future; however the plot had too many complications for me to thoroughly enjoy the story.  


Once again I submit my vote without connecting with any of my fellow team readers.  My vote to continue on is March.