Mock Printz 2026 discussion

Ariel Crashes a Trainhighlights the harsh realities of OCD and intrusive thoughts. Receiving several starred reviews already, will Ariel make it to the Printz list?

It's early in the year but this one is my front runner. The book is horrifying but also very touching and I could not put it down. Heartbreaking in many ways but also three cheers for amazing siblings and friends.

This one was rough for me to finish with my anxiety. I found myself doing self-soothing behaviors as I read. I liked the characters and thought it was generally well written, but I thought it was maybe 50 pages too long, that I would've liked them to explore the religious stuff with the parents more, and that I think the side story about Felicia Palmer was wholly unnecessary. It could be taken out and nothing would change. I would've liked more resolution with her friend, Leah. I also think the editor should've caught how many times the author used the words "sticky" and "electric meat" in the last 50-60 pages. It was good, but I don't think it's a top contender for me.

Briony wrote: "Ariel Crashes a Trainhighlights the harsh realities of OCD and intrusive thoughts. Receiving several starred reviews already, will Ariel make it to the Printz list?"

I agree with the starred reviews that it is a very honest depiction of mental illness and that I think it handles specific topics well. I think it might get a nomination, but my thought right now is I don't think it will win.

A solid contender, well-developed characters, strong atmosphere/tone.