CBC Books has put together a list of 14 YA titles, including MOUNTAIN RUNAWAYS by Pam Withers, THE SIGNS AND WONDERS OF TUNA RASHAD by Natasha Deen, and FUNNY GYAL by Angeline Jackson with Susan McClelland. Here’s what they had to say:
MOUNTAIN RUNAWAYS by Pam Withers
When an avalanche in the Canadian Rockies kills their parents, three children go on the run to avoid being separated by the authorities. Their parents had run a survival school and the children put their skills to the test while trying to live in the Rocky Mountains. But when they get ill and run out of food, the kids must quickly decide their next move before it’s too late.
Pam is represented by Amy Tompkins. MOUNTAIN RUNAWAYS published on January 25, 2022 by Dundurn Press.
THE SIGNS AND WONDERS OF TUNA RASHAD by Natasha Deen
The Signs And Wonders Of Tuna Rashad is about a girl named Tuna and her struggles to deal with teenage life. Tuna wants to be a screenwriter — but her older brother Robby continues to mock her and her aspirations. Tuna is of Caribbean heritage and is in tune with the traditions of her ancestors and is always on the search for messages from loved ones who have died. Tuna also has a crush on a boy at her school — and is waiting for a sign to see if he is The One.
Natasha is represented by Amy Tompkins. THE SIGNS AND WONDERS OF TUNA RASHAD will publish on June 7, 2022 by Running Press Kids.
M FUNNY GYAL by Angeline Jackson with Susan McClelland
Funny Gyal is a YA nonfiction book about the real-life story of Angeline Jackson, who stood up to Jamaica’s oppression of queer youth to demand recognition and justice. Jackson grew up knowing that she was attracted to other girls, and explored her sexuality in her teens. But growing up in a conservative and religious household meant that she was often at odds with her community. Jackson gives a frank and honest account of her life and how she navigated her sexuality and spirituality along the way. Funny Gyal aims to inspire others to let them know that they are not alone.
Angeline and Susan are represented by Rob Firing. FUNNY GYAL will be released June 21, 2022 by Dundurn Press.
To see the complete list, please visit: https://www.cbc.ca/books/14-canadian-ya-books-to-watch-for-in-spring-2022-1.6353295