Private Label by Kelly Yang
Published by Katherine Tegen Books on May 31, 2022
ISBN: 0062941100
Pages: 416
Genres: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

A coming-of-age story that goes beyond the typical themes of YA materials. Serene is a strong but somewhat misguided Asian teen in a nearly total white wealthy beach community. Within the story line she becomes more focused and challenged by life situations and the fashion world. Lian is an outsider from China who suffers with high parental expectations as he tries to find himself. Private Label approaches many social and sexual issues common to the YA experience. Romance is in the air while loss is a looming threat to both of these well-defined characters. Readers watch Serene and Lian develop as individuals while they support each other in their search for answers.

Some may think it unlikely that a teenage girl would control a fashion house but readers will cheer for Serene. This is a good read that touches on family relationships, bully behavior, racism, loss, sexual exploration, and first love. Add to high school’s media centers and consider for public library older YA collections.

Reviewed by Jan Hamilton, Retired Youth Services Librarian