"The OKs Are Not Okay" by Grace K. Shim

The OKs Are Not Okay (Mar. 3, 2026) by Grace K. Shim.

<This is a standalone novel.>

She’s the life of the party. Truly. Seventeen-year-old Elena Ok (pronounced “Oak”) is such a financially savvy, socialite party “it” girl that people and companies pay her to appear at their events. After turning a What’s that? embarrassment as a 14-year-old into a trademarked phrase, Elena has artfully and carefully curated her perfect self. From her luscious hair to her dewy skin to her toned physique, she is the envy of all, and she adores the attention. Her livelihood depends on social media and being in the spotlight. All of that comes crashing down when It’s Ok! (pronounced “Okay”), the fast-fashion family business, comes under scrutiny from the IRS. Their fortune is completely gone, except for what Elena has earned on her own, which is considerable, but not close enough to keep them in luxury. Elena, Gavin (her big brother) and their parents, Dale & Gloria, end up on a dusty plot of land that Dale & Gloria own. It’s in (fictional) Blaire “... in central California, west of Bakersfield, north of Santa Barbara.” Population: 150. It’s in a National Radio Quiet Zone, and now their family “vehicle” is a two-seater tractor, as vehicles in this zone need to run on diesel.

            Elena is distraught over their circumstances and suddenly having to live like “regular” people. Not only is she stuck in the middle of nowhere without Wifi and all of her fluffy conveniences, her parents and Gavin seem to take to their Korean farming heritage with ease, while their family dynamics unravel. It gets better meeting fellow 17-year-old Callie Hartford, lifetime Blaire resident and intern at the Blaire Observatory, and she really likes meeting Brennan, an observatory intern from NOVA (Northern Virginia). She even discovers, albeit in an at-first unwilling, dragging-her-feet sort-of-way, that her entrepreneurial spirit helps sell more at the farmers market. She’s got business savvy, but no one in her family acknowledges it. Their parents enthuse over Gavin, who’s set to take over the business someday, but he’s got a big secret, too. Out of the crumbling, the Oks must find a way to rise to new successes.

            I read the entirety of this YA contemporary, realistic fiction novel, but I struggled for much of it. For Elena’s mom to be surprised at what her daughter doesn’t know about anything in the kitchen is ridiculous, because it’s by her parents’ own hiring of nannies and personal chefs, etc., that Elena’s never had to do anything for herself except make herself pretty. Elena is also incredibly self-absorbed, beyond anyone I’ve met in real life. My parents would never have tolerated such behaviors or attitudes, and I won’t, either. To be fair, there is self-discovery, but it comes pretty late and at the cost of Elena hurting others. The novel also shows that hard work does pay off and this fish-out-of-water can find understanding within her family. I get that not everyone can manage farm/rural community life, but sheesh, this girl needs to learn basic life skills.

Rutabaga's Reads 2022: Part 15

Here continues my middle-grade (MG) reading momentum with this second MG compilation post!

Born Behind Bars (Sept. 7, 2021) by Padma Venkatraman.

*This is a standalone novel.*

Now that Kabir Khan has turned nine, he’s too old … to continue living in the Chennai prison with his amma (mother). But that prison is the only place he knows since he was born there. He and his mom share a cell with three women Kabir’s dubbed Grandma Knife, Aunty Cloud and Mouse Girl. Unlike his cellmates, he is allowed to cross the prison grounds to the schoolroom and his teacher, Bedi Ma’am, with his friend Malli, who’s younger than he is. When Kabir learns he must leave the only place he’s ever known, he’s devastated, but reminds himself that he will free his mom someday. Still, finding himself on the streets is no easy thing after escaping from Fake Uncle. Fortunately, Rani (of the Roma community) and Jay, her parrot, come to his aid. Rani is a slingshot-wielding girl of 12 or 13, and she is street smart. She likes to sleep in trees and can recite the names of her ancestors going back ten generations. She doesn’t want to get Kabir’s hopes up, but she will go to Bengaluru (where his paternal grandparents were known to be) with him, if only they can earn the money. They can’t simply walk there, as Bengaluru is in another state. Kabir will not be deterred, for he is convinced that he will get his mom out and be together in a world that they both deserve to flourish in.

            Venkatraman isn’t one to avoid weighty themes, having been inspired to write this story after reading a BBC news report about a boy in India who had been born in jail. It’s realistic fiction that one wishes was only fable. It’s a riveting, gritty, evocative novel with distinct characters and a fast-moving plot. Kabir is determined and hopeful yet understandably vulnerable and overwhelmed. He’s a survivor, and he’s still a young boy. This story is an immersive experience that isn’t without horror and danger. It’s an important book for people to read. Yes, it’s a fictitious story, but it reads so authentically, and I appreciate that my local library has this book available for patrons to check out.

            Note: Kabir’s character is half Hindu, half Muslim. His mom said that she married his dad in secret, knowing his Muslim parents wouldn’t find it acceptable that their son had married a Hindu woman. As it were, the name Kabir is a name that both Hindus and Muslims use.

Lia Park and the Missing Jewel (May 3, 2022) by Jenna Yoon.

*This is the first novel in a series.*

Overprotective parents are the worst! Lia Park is 12 years old and has an invite to a birthday party for the most popular girl in her class. She thinks she should go, because even though it’s her dream to attend the International Magic Agency’s (IMA) school, with her lack of a manifested magical ability, she’s stuck being a regular person. She’ll still take the entrance exam ... or maybe not. After defying her parents and going to the party, which was disastrous, Lia comes home to a dead IMA agent, a ransacked home and coalescing smoke. Her parents are missing and a vengeful spirit called Gaya expects Lia to bring her the missing jewel. Too bad Lia’s parents have kept her in the dark all these years, and she has zero idea what the jewel looks like, much less how to retrieve it. Fortunately, her best friend, Joon, is along with her when they magically transport to Korea. She gets to see her halmoni (grandma) in-person. The quest isn’t easy, and Lia must rely on her skill with riddles and a discovered ability that’s been kept hidden, not to mention a destiny she never could’ve anticipated (hint: Hwarang).

            I have no problem admitting that I checked this book out because it features a Korean-American main character. While her destiny feels ancient, her surroundings are normally modern. I really appreciate and enjoy how fast-moving this story is, mixing the contemporary world with mythology and magic. The text does include romanized Korean words and phrases, which may be tricky for some to read, but definitely helps tie Lia to her Korean culture alongside her American life. The language, also used for spells, plays an essential role in the story. While Lia struck me as a brat in the first few chapters, her resilience, strength and love of others (especially her parents and best friend) grow exponentially throughout the story. This is an excellent middle-grade, fantasy adventure, and I hope it’s a ride that readers can continue on.

Pahua and the Soul Stealer (Sept. 7, 2021) by Lori M. Lee.

*This is the first novel in a series.*

Even without her ability to see spirits, like her best friend, cat spirit Miv, Pahua Moua is known as a weirdo amongst her classmates. She is an 11-year-old Hmong girl, the lone Asian American in her sixth grade class at her Wisconsin school. With a single mother who picks up extra shifts to make ends meet, Pahua often babysits her younger brother, Matt. Their mother has reminded them multiple times to stay away from the bridge, but Pahua, being so lonely and desperately wanting friends her age, goes to the bridge with a group of girls, one a new classmate and the others known bullies. She accidentally untethers the bridge’s malevolent spirit (a poj ntxoog, pronounced paw zhong), and not only does she not know what to do, but her brother falls deathly ill. Thinking she can fix what she did, she finds her aunt’s old shaman tools in her mother’s closet. But ... she has no idea how to use them and summons a demon instead. Fortunately, a young shaman warrior who needs an attitude adjustment arrives on-scene to save Pahua. Pahua and Zhong will need to wend their way through the spirit world (Dab Teb, pronounced dah thay) to rescue Matt’s soul before it can no longer return.

            What a fantastic middle-grade debut from Lee! This story has something for many readers, whether they’re fans of fantasy and magic, Hmong or Asian American representation, an adventure story set between the Midwest and Dab Teb or any or all of the above. Kicking off the Pahua Moua Series, this novel reads quickly with Lee’s clever writing, the humorous dialogue bringing levity to the challenges the girls encounter, the Hmong-mythology-filled plot is rich in world-building and imagination, and the characters are engaging and relatable (from Pahua’s struggles with identity to Zhong wanting to prove herself to Pahua’s mom working incredibly hard to provide for her family). There are themes of family, friendship and identity. Yes, identity is prevalent in many BIPOC stories, and I often get the impression that my identity as a Korean adoptee is different from those who’ve grown up as non-adoptees. I’d have been Pahua’s friend for sure if she’d been my classmate (I know for a fact that my mom would’ve encouraged it, as she always seemed to have a sixth sense for scoping out loneliness amongst my peers when I was young). For those unfamiliar words, there is a handy glossary included in the back matter. A high-spirited story, this shouldn’t just be on all library shelves, it should be consistently checked out! Another standout for the Rick Riordan Presents imprint!

"A Heart in a Body in the World" by Deb Caletti

A Heart in a Body in the World (Sept. 18, 2018) by Deb Caletti.

Can one run away from trauma, from PTSD? No, but Annabelle Agnelli is going to run cross-country across the U.S. It begins on a whim, but she makes the over 2,700-mile run from Seattle to Washington, D.C. She runs through tunnels in mountain passes and passes through specks-of-towns, suburban areas and major cities. She traverses busy highways and lonely roads surrounded by miles and miles of grain fields. Grandpa Ed (nickname: Capitano) is with her across the country, ready with exclamations in Italian and Italian food. She’s supported by her mom, Gina, and younger brother, Malcolm (logistics) and her best friends Olivia (publicity) and Zach (finances). Annabelle and Grandpa Ed meet Dawn Celeste and her grandson, Luke Messenger, from Portland, OR, and they pop up along the journey, too. And surely, Kat Klein and Will MacEvans would be two of her biggest cheerleaders. As if that isn’t enough, she gains the support of thousands thanks to social media. But all of the support is overwhelming, exacerbated by the guilt and shame that Annabelle carries. It’s The Taker who is at fault. She might’ve/could’ve/should’ve done things differently, but there isn’t an undo button for the past. The Taker is the one who took what he shouldn’t have. Things really aren’t Annabelle’s fault, but she can’t believe the truth of that. Will she be able to complete the journey without falling to shambles? Will her run be cathartic? When will she realize that most everyone has felt some form of grief, confusion and powerlessness, that she isn’t the only one?

            Through much of the story, Annabelle, who turns 18 on her run, is very broken. Her journey isn’t only physical, but psychological. Although this story was published in 2018, the theme of violence is, unfortunately, exceedingly current. The story also confronts readers with a character (The Taker) who exults in toxic masculinity. It is a complex story, and it’s sometimes difficult to read, but the story is all the more remarkable for it. The grief is deep and the rage is intense, but hope uplifts and wisdom sustains this ferocious YA novel. Caletti’s prose doesn’t seem overdone, and she maps out her story well with vivid descriptions of Annabelle’s landscapes as she pounds the pavement and the flashbacks that eventually lead to the harrowing tragedy. Although a work of fiction, this tale feels so authentic. It’s got a lot of heart.

Rutabaga's Reads 2013: Part 11

Here is another round of +Scholastic books. These were my first books by each of these authors. Please note that I am in no way connected to Scholastic except through my love of books and personal support of their brand.

            I thank my brother’s fiancée, Katie, for recommending Cinder!

The Apothecary (Oct. 4, 2011) by Maile Meloy.

It’s 1952, and Janie Scott is a fourteen-year-old who suddenly moves from Los Angeles to London. Her parents are television screenwriters. They’ve been blacklisted¹ by the House Committee on Un-American Activities². Still, Janie isn’t distraught by her parents’ predicament so much that she’s distraught for herself. The flat in London is cold, and Janie’s terribly homesick. On top of that, she has to wear a school uniform and learn Latin. But she meets Benjamin Burrows, son of the apothecary, and she’s moved by his defiance. Benjamin’s dad entrusts them with the Pharmacopoeia right before he goes missing. As they work to keep the book out of enemy hands, they uncover seemingly impossible things and encounter many faces. Who can they trust?

            I was pleasantly surprised by this middle-grade novel. It’s witty and inventive with enough intensity to move the plot along without making it scary and enough humor to keep it from being too serious. The book is part magic and part science with an element of history – a good choice for anyone who enjoys historical fantasy. There is mystery, danger and adventure. It contains the smallest bit of young romance, but it’s not enough that it should scare away a male readership. Make room in your imaginations for “The Apothecary!”

¹The Hollywood blacklist.

²This committee was abolished in 1975. (Yes, it was real!)

Cinder (Jan. 3, 2012) by Marissa Meyer.

In this future Earth, there are six Earthen countries. Linh Cinder resides in New Beijing, capital of the Eastern Commonwealth, and she’s a second-class citizen who’s more a possession than a body with rights. That’s because she’s a cyborg. She knows nothing of her past before she was eleven. She’s sixteen now and is a gifted mechanic. She pays her horrid stepmother’s bills. All of them. She has two stepsisters: one nice (Peony) and one not-so-nice (Pearl). Cinder’s life interconnects with Crown Prince Kaito’s, and she soon gains insight into his major stressors. His father, the emperor, is in the fourth and final stage of letumosis. No cure has been found for the disease, which covers the body in a bruise-colored rash. Fourth stage is reached once the finger tips turn blue-black. Furthermore, the ruthless Lunar people (they live on the moon) watch with Queen Levana trying to bedazzle her way onto an Earthen throne through the manipulation of bioelectricity. Any Lunar has this ability, except for shells. Queen Levana uses it for glossy bully purposes as much as for just plain evil ones. Cinder will find that her role will become far more important than simply being a cyborg-mechanic.

            I was initially unsure of “Cinder,” wondering if I’d like a book centered on a gifted-mechanic cyborg. It turns out that I did! “Cinder” is a YA science fiction book with fairytale ties set in a dystopian future. “Cinder” is not a remake of the Disney version of Cinderella, so don’t set yourself up for a classic retelling of that beloved story. It is Meyer’s take on the tale, and there are similarities. You may see the “pumpkin” in the car, and of course there’s the terrible stepmother. The characters are distinctive, and the storyline is decent. The book is perhaps too predictable at times, but the author’s writing is skilled, her world-building is sound, and the racism (even of an atypical kind) is still racism enough to rankle the nerves. This is the first book in a series.

Mockingbird (Apr. 15, 2010)  by Kathryn Erskine.

What would it be like to view everything in black and white? I’m not referring to TVs before they were in color. I’m talking about Caitlin Smith’s world. For her, everything is black or white, good or bad, easy or hard. She is an eleven-year-old with Asperger syndrome, an autism spectrum disorder. Her brother, Devon, taught her and guided her, but he’s dead now. She wants to find closure after she learns the definition of it. Caitlin works with her school’s counselor, Mrs. Brook, who wants her to find friends, learn finesse (the tactful kind) and show empathy. She doesn’t want to, because it’s hard and sometimes she just Doesn’t Get It. But life is more than black or white, and Caitlin may find that it’s not all so bad or scary.

            A National Book Award Winner (2010), “Mockingbird” is a realistic, middle-grade fiction novel. While the sorrow of the story stems from a school shooting, it is not a book that focuses on violence. It is more a book that focuses on the healing (closure) of a main character who lives with Asperger’s and the grieving community. This is a fine selection, not just for middle school students learning about disorders and realistic tough stuff, but also for high school psychology classes as a discussion topic. While she doesn’t wear a snazzy suit or have superpowers, Caitlin is still a hero who works to learn more, understand more and be more, as we all should.

Pegasus: The Flame of Olympus (May 22, 2012) by Kate O’Hearn.

An unexpected thunderstorm is ravaging the East Coast with NYC in the heart of it. Its intensity seems unusual, but not as unusual as discovering that Pegasus – yes, the winged stallion – has crashed onto Emily Jacobs’ apartment building’s roof. Pegasus is injured and is displeased with Paelen’s actions. Paelen is an Olympian thief, and he’s in a tight bind elsewhere. Meanwhile, Olympus is in danger of being snuffed out by the Nirads, smelly stone giants of gray marble sporting four arms. The Roman gods struggle to defeat them. To complicate matters in NYC, Emily, her friend Joel, Olympian Diana and Pegasus are being pursued, not just by kill-thirsty Nirads, but also by the CRU (Central Research Unit). The CRU deals with “unexplained phenomena,” and all taken by them are never seen again. But it’s imperative they stay alive. They must retrieve Pegasus’ bridle and find Vesta’s Flame (Hestia, for those more familiar with the Greek) and save Olympus. Will anyone be lost? Will Olympus be restored?

            The story is energetic, and it is a decent tide-over for Rick Riordan fans. I still much prefer Riordan’s writing; however, a review quote of his was on the book, which is what prompted me to purchase this title. The pain and anger (yes, there is violence) make this story especially strong emotionally. There is also plenty of daring and adventure mixed with fantasy in this upper middle-grade tale. I appreciate this story of modern mythology combined with our world and how O’Hearn distinguishes her world from similar ones such as those from Riordan.

Rutabaga's Reads 2013: Part 6

This is Part 6 of Rutabaga’s Reads 2013. These five books fall into the category of middle-grade or young adult (YA). And, incidentally, I ordered this handful of books through +Scholastic. I love the affordability of their books and how they continue to promote literacy and a love of reading!

Blindsided (July 8, 2010) by Priscilla Cummings.

How would you react to losing your eyesight (or any of your senses)? Natalie O’Reilly, a fourteen-year-old, isn’t reacting well. She was born without an iris, a condition known as aniridia. Neither parent has aniridia, so her condition is considered sporadic. Natalie has slowly been losing her eyesight for years. She is sent to a Center to learn how to read Braille (she doesn’t want to), walk with a cane (she throws it in her closet) and learn to be independent even if her eyesight continues to worsen (she thinks she shouldn’t even be at the school). Will Natalie choose to set herself apart from her classmates? Or will she befriend others and make an effort? Can Natalie set goals for her future … even if she can’t see them?

            “Blindsided” is a good, middle-grade story and would be a good addition to a classroom library. It is a solid realistic fiction resource to use for discussions on visual impairment – along with the diversity of vision loss – and the capabilities visually impaired people have just like anyone else. It’s not an entertaining story; it’s a thoughtful and thought-provoking story.

Dr. Frankenstein’s Daughters (Jan. 1, 2013) by Suzanne Weyn.

“IT’S ALIVE!” are those words so easily associated with Dr. Victor Frankenstein and the awakening of his famous monster creation. This story follows a new Frankenstein generation: Victor’s twin daughters, Ingrid (the intellectual) and Giselle (the socialite). For their safety, Victor didn’t claim them, and the girls return to Frankenstein’s castle after learning it is their birthright. Ingrid is immediately entranced by her father’s journals and pores over them. Ingrid’s also drawn to the wounded and sulky naval officer next door, Walter Hammersmith. Giselle wants to return Frankenstein’s castle to its former glory so she can throw lavish parties to be attended by everyone who is anyone in high society and the upper echelon of the sciences. Unfortunately, she seems to be a magnet for danger. She is wary, which is wise, especially when Investigator Cairo brings to light that strange things are going on in the area. Disappearances, even deaths. Can they figure out who’s behind it all before more are hurt or worse?

            I liked this gothic tale, which read like an upper middle-grade novel. Weyn does an appreciative job of respecting the history of Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein,” even if the girls’ words don’t read like that historical time. “Dr. Frankenstein’s Daughters” is not a remake of Shelley’s work. Think of it as an extension of the original. Know that this book isn’t funny. It’s part mystery and part thriller. There are slim occasions when grisly details are shared, yet the book never reads as scary. The ending could’ve been more satisfying (meaning more detailed), but it’s a very decent book.

Firelight (Sept. 7, 2010) by Sophie Jordan.

Draki are not dragons, but the descendants of dragons. They are able to shift between human and dragon forms. It’s not just a cool ability, but a protective one. Jacinda Jones is a prized draki amongst her pride, being a fire-breather -- the first in many generations. However, she refuses to be treated as a possession forcibly given to the pride alpha’s son, Cassian, and crosses limits in a big way. Her defiance compels her mom to relocate them (including her twin sister, Tamra) amongst humans in an arid area, which weakens her draki-ness. Her mom wants to kill off her draki spirit, but Jacinda’s not willing to let it go. Will Rutledge is the one person who revives her draki spirit, but she should avoid him like her life depends on it. Because it might. He’s a draki hunter. Is he better than he has been brought up to be? Can Jacinda both hold onto her draki spirit and control it when it matters most?

            “Firelight” is a YA fantasy that combines mythical species, forbidden love and danger. While the love triangle, cookie-cutter shape sounds all too familiar and copycat (guy wants girl who loves other guy), Jordan’s prose and draki voice give the book a fresh perspective. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys the Twilight series or YA fantasy in general.

Keeping the Castle (June 14, 2012) by Patrice Kindl.

Crawley Castle (a.k.a. Crooked Castle) is a farce. Actually a folly, it’s in shambles and the inhabitants haven’t the means to renovate. Because of this, seventeen-year-old Althea Crawley plans to marry rich. She is a great beauty, so catching the eyes of eligible suitors is no issue. The issue is finding eligible suitors in the small Yorkshire town of Lesser Hoo. When Lord Boring comes to live at Gudgeon Park, her sights are set. He is young, attractive and titled and is smitten with Althea upon first meeting. Her path seems so clear and easy. Too bad she has two noisome stepsisters (not evil like Cinderella’s, mind you, but still snobbish) who pine for Lord Boring’s attentions as well. Then there’s his cousin and business manager, Mr. Fredericks, a smart but somewhat maladroit and impudent young man. Will a smart match be made in Althea’s eyes?

            “Keeping the Castle” has the air of a Jane Austen novel, though it’s aimed at a younger readership. The banter between Althea and Mr. Fredericks is amusing, as Althea can be just as impudent as him “in an age of manners.” Althea also often comes across as shallow. That might be trying on a reader, but the story is meant to entertain. It’s a learning experience for Althea, for she learns that her plans may not come to pass, especially those for keeping the castle.

One for the Murphys (May 10, 2012) by Lynda Mullaly Hunt.

Twelve-year-old Carley Connors is tough, but her life is really upended when she’s sent to live with a foster family, the Murphys. She’s scared, but no crying. Tough exterior, all the way. And inside, too (maybe). To her disbelief, the family is lively and happy. It would be easier to stay detached from them. That detachment is easiest to achieve when one of the boys resents her from the beginning, but what about when Mrs. Murphy is just too … nice? Too loving? Too much the mom she hasn’t had? And what happens when this new world of hers is upended again?

            This is a pleasant read that is fairly short. Carley is believable in the way she uses her outward toughness and sarcasm as an internal protective mechanism. She believably has a lot on her young mind revolving around the moment that led to foster care. So while her acting-out may grate on your nerves or appall you, hopefully you’ll also be sympathetic toward her (but not coddling -- Carley wouldn’t approve!). This book would be a nice selection for a classroom library with middle-grade readers and a section on tough stuff.

-- Lisa Rutabaga’s note: While I am highly supportive of the Scholastic brand, I want to be clear that I purchased these books. I’ve received no compensation from Scholastic for my promotion of them. Read my Disclosure of [No] Material Connection for more.