“High action, high concept stories for reluctant readers who want grit.”
— Kirkus Reviews

SideStreets are edgy, fast-paced novels that combine real-world themes and believable characters to make for short, heart-stopping books — sure to engage the most reluctant reader.

New in the series

About the series

• SideStreets are a series of book that tackle edgy, real world problems that teens today experience such as class issues and crime, substance abuse, the #MeToo movement, and mental health.
• Focus on social and self-awareness and responsible decision making — key aspects to SEL learning.

Reviews

“High action, high concept stories for reluctant readers who want grit.”
— Kirkus Reviews

Praise for Open Secrets

“Highlighting the important and under-discussed issue of grooming against the backdrop of the #MeToo movement, this novel deftly deals with a difficult and timely topic.“

— School Library Journal

“…the way red flags and warning signs of predatory behaviour are woven through the narrative is its greatest strength. The subjects presented will educate and inform many readers on an important topic … An absorbing #MeToo story that will increase awareness.”

— Kirkus Reviews

Praise for The Player

“Sweet heat melts the ice, and relationship woes guide growth.”

— Kirkus Reviews

Praise for No Known Address

“A thought-provoking problem novel about a teen’s journey to find a safe place to call home.“

— Kirkus Reviews

Praise for No One’s Baby

★ Starred Selection, Best Books for Kids and Teens

“Tackles difficult issues head on, matter of factly and with sensitivity.”

— CM: Review of Materials

Praise for Locked Up

Locked Up will make readers look at others in a different light and think before they judge. With numerous opportunities for discussion about consequences, if prison is always the best way to punish someone, and different ways to work through difficult personal issues and feelings, Locked Up will give readers a lot to think about.“

— CM: Review of Materials

“Watson does an excellent job of giving the reader a sense of day to day life inside a detention facility… SideStreets once again brings helpful light to a dark subject.”

— Resource Links

“… brings helpful light to a dark subject.”

— Resource Links

Praise for Spin Out

“Spin Out is an excellent book for those reluctant readers who need a solid story and relatable characters.”

— Resource Links

Praise for On the Run

“On the Run brings forth positive messages and is a worthwhile read.”

— CM: Review of Materials

“On the Run is an excellent book for troubled teens who lack moral responsibility and a sense of duty.”

— Resource Links

Books and sets in the series