About Louisville Public Library's Review Crew

The library’s Review Crew offers local teens in grades 6-12 the opportunity to earn community service hours for school or other organizations by reviewing teen books or adult books with teen appeal. We hope to provide local teens with great reading recommendations from their peers while also providing a flexible means of earning volunteer credit.

To join the Crew, please email Teen Services Librarian, Jessica Schwartz, at jschwartz@louisvilleco.gov for more information and review writing guidelines. You will be asked to write a sample review. If your review is accepted, you will be eligible to earn one community service hour for every review submitted. 

Ratings are out of 5 stars:

·         1 star = didn't like it

·         2 stars = it was ok

·         3 stars =  liked it

·         4 stars = really liked it

·         5 stars  = it was amazing

   

Past Present Future by Rachel Lynn Solomon

Book: Past Present Future by Rachel Lynn Solomon

Rating: 4 stars

Review Writer: Vihaan J

    “Past Present Future” is a heartfelt sequel to “Today Tonight Tomorrow” by Rachel Lynn Solomon. This story follows Rowan and Neil, high school rivals turned lovers. It follows their journey into their first year at college in different cities. Rowan is in Boston, attempting to become a novelist, while Neil is in New York, trying to navigate his mental health issues. Throughout the story, we see how their relationship is tested through new life challenges. One thing I liked about this book was the characters Rowan and Neil. They were both relatable in their unique ways as they were adjusting to college life. I enjoyed reading about Rowan finding her voice as a writer and Neil’s in-depth mental health battle. However, there was one thing that I didn’t like about the story. Some parts of it were very repetitive, especially their doubts about their relationship. I also wish there were more resolutions to some of the other side plots in the story. Overall, I would recommend this book to older teens who enjoy personal growth stories.

Dance of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson

Book: Dance Of Thieves by Mary E. Pearson

Rating: 4 stars

Review writer: Bhavika

Dance Of Thieves is an intriguing, action-packed, and well-written book. It has everything from war ethics to romance to fantastical legends. The book introduces the character Kazimyrah of Brightmist, a thief who survived the streets of Venda since she was young, and became a part of the queen’s guard. Kazi is on a manhunt for a war criminal who committed atrocious crimes. On her secret mission, she encounters the Ballenger family and their heir - Jase Ballenger. On this secret chase of finding the criminals, Kazi may have left many disappointed, and broken the trust of many as well, while Jase may have unknowingly done the same, evoking emotions Kazi has hidden for the past several years. These characters have dynamic personalities, they are loyal to their kingdoms, as well as to each other, yet when conflict arises, they are left at a crossroads, figuring out where they fit. The book ended on a cliffhanger with enough to lead onto the next book, however it was not disappointing. This book is a part of a two-book series, being followed by Vow Of Thieves. Both of these books in my opinion are exceptionally good with several twists and turns. I can vouch for how this book has several heartwarming moments, being more than just about romance and war, but also several other sensitive topics like trauma, anxiety and grief. I liked how many parts of this book weren’t predictable, yet engaging enough to have me keep the pages turning. I would recommend this book for readers beginning to explore the fantasy fiction realm and romance novel enthusiasts.