Discussion: Authors I NEED to Read

As a bookworm, I am constantly struggling with how to choose what to read and when. There are so many fantastic books out there, but alas, I only have a limited number of hours in a day. Therefore, I am forced to prioritize my reading list, and this could lead to fabulous authors slipping through the cracks. So, I made a list of some YA authors I would like to get to know better by reading their books. 

Jason Reynolds
My Intro Book: Miles Morales 
Goodreads

I remember being interested in Reynolds' book, All American Boys, when I first heard about it, but it pretty much sat on my TBR with a lot of other books. However, after seeing Reynolds on a BookCon panel this year, I really want to make sure I read one of his books before the year is through.

Why do I NEED to read his book? When Reynolds spoke at BookCon, I could not help but listen with rapt attention. He was so real and genuine. I loved that we both grew up in the city and found solace in the public library. (Oh, how I loved the Flatbush branch of the Brooklyn Public library!) He also has a lot to say, and (I'm going there) I think it's important for some young adults out there to have someone like Reynolds to tell the stories he tells.

Emma Mills
My Intro Book: First & Then
Goodreads

Emma Mills has been on my radar since her first book released. It always seemed like timing was bad or I didn't have any of her books. But I did it! I finally bought one of her books!

Why do I NEED to read her book? I was totally inspired to finally buy a Mills book, because I read rave, after rave, after rave. I knew I was missing out on something special, and as a contemporary reader, it seems almost a crime that I have not read any books by Mills. The other reason why I really want to read a book by her is because she does science. I was really excited to see that she was pursuing a Phd in cell biology. Although my love is for the physical sciences, I still think it is awesome that she is super smart, and I hope her books show off her level of intelligence.

Jeffery Self
My Intro Book: Drag Teen
Goodreads

I really regret not getting a copy of Self's book sooner, but you know what they say, better late than never. When I saw he had another book releasing, it sort of lit a fire under me.

Why do I NEED to read his book? I first discovered Jeffery Self at YallFest in 2015. He was on one of my favorite panels. The dynamic between all the authors was phenomenal (Loved the dueling Davids!), but Self stood out to me, and I knew I wanted to know more about him. If his books are even a fraction as funny as he is, I will be kept in stitches, because he was hilarious.

Elizabeth Wein
My Intro Book: Code Name Verity
Goodreads

Code Name Verity has been receiving a ton of praise. I put it off originally, because I didn't think I was a fan of historical fiction, but then, I actually read some historical fiction, and that pretty much changed my mind.

Why do I NEED to read her book? Wein was also on a YallFest panel. It was an incredible panel moderated by one of my favorites, Rae Carson, and packed with powerhouse female writers. As if I was not already high from all the girl-power in the room, Wein began to speak, and I was instantly captivated. She is just brilliant and off the charts intelligent, and she was sharing things with us that were so interesting, but explaining it so it was easy to understand. If she writes in the same manner that she speaks, I should be able to be entertained as I learn some things.

Now it's your turn!

Are there any authors you NEED to read? 

Let us know in the comments!