Recommended by Janine Sobeck Knighton

A sweet encounter between two unlikely allies. I appreciated the twist - I had assumed it was a problem with eyesight before realizing it was dealing with illiteracy - as well as the compassion Raf had as an ESL for someone who was struggling to read their first language. A good reminder to not judge and the power of kindness - especially with pies.

"Talk of murder is more civilized over a cup of tea." We often celebrate the people of the different WWII resistances for their bravery and how, in many cases, they won the war. We don't, however, often ask about what their actions cost them emotionally and mentally. These women, though they believed in what they were doing, also realized it was possible to go too far. Haas is asking some necessary, thought-provoking questions about our humanity and the thin line these heroes walked between bravery and brutality.

A heartbreaking yet hopeful encounter between grandmother and daughter. I love the running mutterings of "stab, strangle..." and the connection between Nora's knitting, the anger and loneliness that she feels, and the resulting pregnancy. I also appreciate how Grandma's revelations of family secrets are both too much for Nora as well as helpful in terms of her realizing that she is not alone in facing hard decisions and that she will be able to find the choice that is right for her.

A fun reality TV exploration of Greek Mythology - and a great way to introduce all the different gods and goddesses to a TYA audience. The characters are fun and distinct and there were loads of great, comedic contemporary references to other reality shows. I also appreciated the twist ending, with Heralces learning that there were things more important than winning the contest and the rewards that come through humility and sacrifice.

LET'S FIX ANDY takes a look at the difficulties of navigating the emotional ties of male friendships. As Andy's brother and friends attempt to help him "become happier" through changing his behaviors and his environments, they must also look into their own ideas of masculinity and happiness.

MOMMY DANCES WITH THE DEVIL is a surprise at every turn. It starts off as a normal story of a new mother dealing with life as a baby and quickly turns into the supernatural. Hilarious and heartwarming, it is an engaging tale of what women will do in order to belong.

I was fortunate to see the premiere of SINGING TO THE BRINE SHRIMP a Plan-B Theatre. It is a comedic look into the mysterious world of new play development. The characters are hilarious and the puppets add to the overall absurdist feel to the experience of Allison as she navigates what should be the professional opportunity of a lifetime.

SWEETHEART COME is a fascinating adventure in the mind of a woman who is on the journey toward loneliness, isolation, and mental illness. The writing is beautifully poetical and draws you in from the first page.

Larson has a keen ability to translate Austen's beloved work to the stage. The humor is rich, the characters are entrancing, and there are even a few surprises for the most ardent Austen fan.