The Summer of Jordi Perez by Amy Spalding
Do you have a hankering for a burger? Maybe some fries? Roll up your sleeves and pick up this charming story of young love and, of course, burgers. The story follows Abby, a plus-size style blogger and high school student living her dream as an intern at her favorite clothing store. There, she connects with Jordi, a girl who attends high school with Abby. As Abby navigates her growing crush, and eventual relationship with Jordi, she also navigates the LA burger scene with Jax, a lax-bro and unlikely ally. Bonus points for Abby’s mom’s “healthy solutions” and Jordi’s dad’s drool-worthy caldo de pollo.
Girls of Paper and Fire by Natasha Ngan
If you’re in the mood for some Chinese food, sit down and buckle up for this novel, where every meal is loaded and the table is a battleground. Some of the most pivotal scenes are around the table as the Paper Girls discover who among them will spend that night with the Emperor. This story of survival and the amazing relationships that the women form along the way will leave you hungry for the sequel. CONTENT WARNING: This book contains depictions of sexual violence.
Wicked Like a Wildfire by Lana Popovic
Maybe you’d prefer something sweet? The lush descriptions of Iris and Malina’s Mother’s confections will satisfy any sweet tooth. Their Mother uses her gleam, the mysterious magical ability belonging to the women of their family, to create all sorts of confections. Once you have your sweet treat, settle in for a beautifully woven tapestry of words that takes you on Iris and Malina’s journey. The girls set out to find the truth behind their gleams, and the dark curse that hangs over their family.
Not your Sidekick by C.B. Lee
What about a meal that connects you to your culture? Jessica Tran is living in a world where being a superhero is a valid career option. She takes a detour from the insanity that is growing up WWIII and dealing with her new job as the intern for a notorious super-villain to enjoy a bánh mì with its fresh veggies and crisp bread. For more delicious food points just look to Jess’s friend, and the protagonist of the sequel, Bells. He works at his family’s Creole restaurant serving up delicious plates of jambalaya that are described in tantalizing detail. No matter what you’re craving, you’ll be reaching for a snack before you’re done reading.
The Pros of Cons by Alison Cherry and Lindsay Ribar
Or perhaps you just want junk food? Grab a bag of Doritos and some Mountain Dew, get into your comfiest fandom tee, and settle in for this unique multi-perspective novel that follows three different girls at three different cons, all happening under one roof. As Phoebe, Vanessa, and Callie continue to bump into each other like they’re in a pinball machine, their stories gradually mesh together. The girls band together, eventually using their new-found connection to create a podcast, eating many chips along the way.
