Each week we bring you a sample of the books we’re reading, the films we’re watching, the television shows we’re hooked on, or the music we’re loving.

Lian Hingee is reading The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett

The Vanishing Half is one of those extraordinary novels that stays with you long after you turn the final page. This cross-generational story about two sisters whose lives are intrinsically tied up with America’s obsession with race is a powerful piece of historical fiction that captures the experience of Black America.

Stella and Desiree are African American twin sisters whose unique genetics have granted them skin light enough to pass for White. As the sisters grow up, they grow apart - one returning to the insular Black community in which they were raised, and the other reinventing herself entirely as White. Years later, their two daughters - one ‘blue-black’, the other with no knowledge of her Black heritage - connect, reopening wounds that never truly healed.

This beautifully written book explores themes including class, violence, gender, and identity with a delicate sensibility that never puts a foot wrong. It’s a lyrical, heartbreaking, unexpectedly witty, and thought-provoking book that invites readers to examine what it is that defines us to others and to ourselves.

Angela Crocomb is reading Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

After watching Leigh Bardugo titles fly off the shelves for so long, I’ve finally had a chance to delve into the Grishaverse myself during a recent holiday.

I started with Shadow and Bone and I absolutely loved her medieval fantasy world filled with magic and special powers. Alina Starkov, the skinny, scrappy orphan who is not much good at anything until she accidentally unleashes her incredible power, was such a believable, authentic character. I was totally immersed in her journey from nobody to Grisha royalty and now need to read the rest of the series to find out what happens next.

Next, I’m diving into Six of Crows, which is also set in this remarkable world, and will be eagerly tuning in the Netflix series, which comes out this weekend! I am now officially a Leigh Bardugo devotee!

Teen Advisory Board member Aurelia Orr is reading These Violent Delights by Chloe Gong

These Violent Delights gives a captivating insight into the dark and seductive underbelly of 1920s Shanghai. This story is a sinister echo of the original tragedy that showcases how daring it is to love.

Loving is both the bravest and the most dangerous thing a person can do.