Starfish by Akemi Dawn Bowman is finally here! I’m so excited to share this one with you guys because it’s one of my favorite contemporary young adult novels of the year! When I first read it, I couldn’t believe how much I connected to the characters and this story. Everyone should read it, but don’t just take me at my word. Below are six solid reasons why you should pick up Starfish!

1. The characters

I love character driven books, which is why I fell in love with Starfish! The characters are amazing and complex. They grabbed my heart from the first page and did not let go.

2. Kiko is a strong female character

Kiko has a lot of setbacks she has to deal with, including rejection from her dream art school. Though her journey is not always easy, it’s amazing to watch her overcome what is thrown at her. You’ll quickly become one of her biggest cheerleaders.

3. A beautiful cover

This cover takes my breath away. It is so fitting for the breathtaking story of this book!

4. A focus on art

Kiko’s dream is to get into Prism, her dream art school. Though she doesn’t get in, I love the way they focus on Kiko’s art. The descriptions of her artwork also help to give perspective on how Kiko is feeling in the book.

5. An intimate look at anxiety

Kiko has anxiety and the book does not shy away from it. I love the visceral way you feel how she is feeling. Those living with an anxiety disorder might be able to find something of themselves in Kiko’s experience, and those without will be able to understand what it means.

6. A debut author to watch

Akemi Dawn Bowman is an author you definitely want to keep your eye on! I know that I will be picking up pretty much anything she writes from now on. If you want to fall in love with a new author, begin with this fantastic debut novel!