From haunting dark academia to sci-fi adventures, Orca Soundings are fast-paced with relatable characters and gripping storylines. These accessible books are great choices for teens 12+ who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read!
The Truth About Maura
In this accessible book for teens, Maura’s classmate sees her leaving an abortion clinic and spreads the news. Maura spends the week dodging sympathy and assumptions, and she wishes life would go back to normal. Her only refuge is with a cute new student who respects Maura’s boundaries.
“A story for developing readers that may give hope for anyone facing Maura’s situation.” —School Library Journal
Delta Oblivion
In this sci-fi adventure, sixteen-year-old Tallie must find a way to connect with her new mechbot copilot if they hope to participate in the Mech Battles, a popular sport that pits giant fighting robots against each other.
★ “One of the most poignant elements of the story is Tallie’s exploration of her neurodivergence. A technology-forward, futuristic story that holds friendship and empathy at the centre.” —School Library Journal, starred review
Trust No One
This fast-paced chase story leaves readers in suspense when seventeen-year-old Ben’s date robs a store and makes him an unwilling accomplice to her crime.
“A relatable suburban adventure with accessible writing and cliff-hanger pacing, this is a hi-lo first purchase.” —School Library Journal
The Curse of Heartwood Academy
This book blends horror and dark academia to create a genuinely suspenseful story about fifteen-year-old Allie who finds herself at a boarding school where hazing turns into haunting.
“Chan’s paranormal mystery, which is designed to be accessible to dyslexic and striving readers, is compulsively readable, begging to be finished in a single sitting, with its breakneck pacing ratcheted by the escalating tension and healthy dose of red herrings.” —Kirkus Reviews
Sugar Crash
In this accessible novel, diabetic teen Zoe Harmon races against time and low insulin when she and a classmate have a car accident on a remote mountain road.
“As someone living with Type 1 diabetes, Di Lorenzo lends an authentic voice, providing ample information about navigating an invisible disability while also tackling topics such as mixed feelings over the loss of friendship and the rekindling of romantic feelings.” —Kirkus Reviews
Trance
This story explores speculative fiction grounded in a real-world setting as Kira races to find a way to save her friend who is trapped in a telepathic trance.
“A captivating novel about the myriad lasting impacts of generational trauma.” —Foreword Reviews
One Kiss
In this book, sixteen-year-old Maya’s life is thrown off-balance when the rock-star father of her best friend kisses her in the back of a limo.
“The straightforward syntax, compelling topic, and appealing, relatable characters make this a strong choice for reluctant readers. A compact, accessible, and timely conversation starter.” —Kirkus Reviews