Honolulu by Alan Brennert

Born with the name Regret, the protagonist of this story deals with both external and internal struggles to discover who she is and how she will find where she belongs. Regret's story begins in Korea, where her secret love of reading and her passion for writing must be concealed from her rigid father and passive mother. Once Regret discovers that she will not get her father's approval to pursue an education, she takes matters in her own hands and finds herself in Hawaii with an entire journey through many obstacles right in front of her. Regret's story, from her poetic narrative to her powerful ambition is a memorable tale that weaves many different cultures together, creating a new environment and home for Regret, and she discovers opportunities that she could only dream of. The road to Hawaii may not have been paved in gold, but Regret's ambition and perseverance offers a great lesson in growing up and finding who you are. 

I recommend this novel to Historical Fiction lovers, people who love Korean culture, Hawaiian culture and Japanese culture. By creating her own chogak po, Regret blooms where she is planted and never gives up on creating a home that is all her own.     

Mara Daughter of the Nile by Eloise Jarvis McGraw

I read this book in Middle School with my English class, and I have loved it ever since! It is the story of Mara, a young slave girl who is literally thrown into the balance of politics and deception. She becomes a spy for both sides of the throne and enjoys the new freedom of her occupation. As she learns about the inner workings of the palace, and gets to know the people behind the plans on who will rule Egypt, she discovers that she must eventually choose who she will support. This opportunity has helped Mara discover things that she had never needed before. As a slave Mara trusted and looked to no one. In this dangerous game, she finds friends and discovers who she wants to be.
This book uses a different accent of Egyptian jargon translated into English. If you've never read about Egypt before, or the events of Egyptian history, some research wouldn't be a bad idea. This story is entertaining and thrilling. I recommend it to anyone who loves adventure, historical literature and a clever character.