The Way You Make Me Feel

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is struggling with the consequences of their actions or needs to understand that their 'perfect' peers are more complex than they seem. It is the ideal choice for a teen who uses humor as a shield or feels disconnected from their family heritage. Clara Park is a prankster whose latest stunt lands her a summer of hard labor on her father's KoBra food truck alongside her uptight nemesis, Rose Akana. Through the heat of the kitchen, Clara is forced to confront her own biases and learn the value of a hard day's work. This contemporary novel explores the nuances of being Korean-Brazilian-American while tackling themes of accountability and female friendship. It is perfectly suited for ages 12 and up, offering a realistic but ultimately hopeful look at how a forced change in perspective can lead to genuine personal growth.