13 new YA releases that belong on your May reading list
By Lacy Baugher
May 2021 release: Off the Record – Camryn Garrett
The behind-the-scenes access of Almost Famous meets the searing revelations of #metoo in this story of a teen journalist who uncovers the scandal of the decade.
From the author of Full Disclosure, Off the Record is a contemporary novel of the #MeToo movement, and all the ways women stand up for each other. It follows the story of high school senior Josie Wright, a teen journalist who wins an all-access pass to cover a movie press tour but who discovers a scandal instead.
During the whirlwind press tour, Josie’s in her element, holding her own in interviews, rubbing elbows with celebs, and developing a crush on hot young performer Marius Canet. But when a young actress shares a shocking secret about a powerful man – and it turns out she’s not alone – Josie realizes she’s willing to do anything to pursue justice. But at what cost?
The official synopsis describes the story in more detail.
"Ever since seventeen-year-old Josie Wright can remember, writing has been her identity, the thing that grounds her when everything else is a garbage fire. So when she wins a contest to write a celebrity profile for Deep Focus magazine, she’s equal parts excited and scared, but also ready. She’s got this. Soon Josie is jetting off on a multi-city tour, rubbing elbows with sparkly celebrities, frenetic handlers, stone-faced producers, and eccentric stylists. She even finds herself catching feelings for the subject of her profile, dazzling young newcomer Marius Canet. Josie’s world is expanding so rapidly, she doesn’t know whether she’s flying or falling. But when a young actress lets her in on a terrible secret, the answer is clear: she’s in over her head. One woman’s account leads to another and another. Josie wants to expose the man responsible, but she’s reluctant to speak up, unsure if this is her story to tell. What if she lets down the women who have entrusted her with their stories? What if this ends her writing career before it even begins? There are so many reasons not to go ahead, but if Josie doesn’t step up, who will?"
Off the Record is available on May 18.