This article will show you, my fellow readers, the recommended books for December here at Mt. SAC ECA, for the importance of knowledge and free time activities. 

1. The Sunbearer Trials by Aiden Thomas

Step into a world drenched in Mexican mythology, where gods, mortals, and demigods coexist in a richly imagined universe. Every decade, ten demigods are chosen for the Sunbearer Trials—a deadly competition to determine who will carry the light to save their world from eternal darkness. Teo, a shy and compassionate trans boy and son of the goddess of birds, is stunned when he’s selected to compete against stronger and more ruthless opponents. Each trial is a test of strength, wit, and survival, but beneath the competition lies a dangerous secret. Thomas’s storytelling is vibrant, weaving cultural elements with identity, resilience, and belonging themes. This book’s dynamic characters, thrilling plot twists, and lush settings make it a fantasy you won’t want to put down.

2. Highly Suspicious and Unfairly Cute by Talia Hibbert

Imagine being trapped in the wilderness with someone you used to call your best friend but now can’t stand. That’s the hilarious and awkward setup for this romance. Celine Bangura is ambitious, sarcastic, and unapologetically herself, while Bradley Graeme is the school’s golden boy who prefers flying under the radar. When the two find themselves in a survival skills program, they must work together to win a scholarship. The humor crackles as their clashing personalities come head-to-head, and the chemistry slowly builds into something undeniable. Hibbert doesn’t just deliver romance—she dives into themes like mental health, the pressure to succeed, and what it means to be vulnerable. This heartwarming, laugh-out-loud love story is as much about self-discovery as it is about relationships.

3. One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus

Five high school students walk into detention, but only four make it out alive. The story begins with the mysterious death of Simon Kelleher, the creator of a notorious gossip app that has spilled everyone’s secrets. As the investigation unfolds, Bronwyn, the brain; Nate, the bad boy; Addy, the beauty; and Cooper, the athlete, are all suspects. Each of them has a motive, but who’s guilty? This novel captures the essence of high school life—its cliques, tensions, and secrets—while delivering a compelling murder mystery. The shifting perspectives allow you to dive into each character’s life, unraveling their insecurities and motivations. McManus expertly balances suspense with character development, creating a story that keeps you guessing until the shocking finale.

4. The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Imagine waking up one day to discover you’ve inherited a billionaire’s fortune—except you don’t know why. Avery Grambs is an ordinary teenager whose life takes a wild turn when she becomes the sole heir to Tobias Hawthorne’s vast empire. The catch? She has to live in Hawthorne House, a mansion full of riddles, secret passageways, and the billionaire’s angry, scheming grandsons. This book blends mystery, romance, and psychological chess as Avery tries to outsmart everyone around her to survive. The puzzles and high-stakes drama will appeal to fans of Knives Out or anyone who loves a smart, twisty thriller. Barnes’s writing is razor-sharp, making this an addictive page-turner.

5. Five Survive by Holly Jackson

This nail-biting thriller takes you on a road trip gone wrong. Six friends are traveling in an RV when it breaks down in the middle of nowhere. Soon, they realize they’re being targeted by a sniper who demands that one of them reveal a secret—or else. As tensions rise and the group’s dynamics unravel, hidden truths emerge, and their trust is shattered. Jackson’s storytelling is intense, using the confined space of the RV to amplify the suspense and claustrophobia. The ticking-clock plot will keep you on edge, making this a perfect pick for fans of psychological thrillers and survival stories.

6. Nick and Charlie by Alice Oseman

This novella revisits the beloved couple from Heartstopper, exploring the emotional complexity of young love. Nick is preparing to leave for university, while Charlie grapples with the fear of their relationship changing. Oseman beautifully captures the joy and challenges of growing up together through heartfelt conversations, quiet moments, and bittersweet reflections. The book is filled with the signature warmth and sincerity that fans of Heartstopper love, making it a comforting yet poignant read for anyone who’s experienced the uncertainty of change. “It was uncharacteristic of the Heartstopper characters…but it was a good representation of teenage relationships,” says Samantha Ordanes, senior. 

7. This Winter by Alice Oseman

Dive deeper into the lives of the Spring siblings in this novella set during a tumultuous holiday season. Told from the perspectives of Tori, Charlie, and their younger brother Oliver, the story delves into the emotional complexities of family, mental health, and healing. Oseman’s writing shines as she portrays the quiet struggles and moments of love that define the holidays. This short yet powerful book is perfect for readers who want something meaningful and reflective during the festive season.

8. The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

Nora Seed’s life is at a crossroads, and she finds herself in the Midnight Library, a magical space between life and death where every book represents a different version of her life. As she explores the endless possibilities of who she could have been, Nora grapples with regret, longing, and the realization that no life is perfect. Matt Haig’s novel is deeply philosophical and uplifting, offering a hopeful message about finding meaning in the life you’re living now. It’s a thought-provoking read for anyone feeling uncertain about their path.

With the holiday season offering some much-needed downtime, December is the perfect opportunity to dive into stories that transport you to new worlds or let you reflect on your own. The shorter days and cozy vibes make it easy to curl up with a good book and get lost in its pages.