Hello from a first time language learner

[Petahpie]

Hi, I'm Peter!

I'm in a university level Spanish 1 class, though I've taken a test that said I was at the high end of Spanish 2 level, I wanted to make sure my basics are solid because I haven't had any formal training since maybe 9th grade (I'm 27 now). I have a mother and sister who both speak spanish at a high enough level to spend time in Latin American countries, and while I don't live with them, having them just a phone call away is an advantage. I also have a baby sister who is fluent in both German and French, so her knowledge of how to learn languages is key.

My goal is to be fluent enough to go on trips with my sister or mother, and depending on life, potentially live outside of the US for a time.

Not sure how much time I'll be able to spend on here with life - in school, working, 3 yr old kid, but it looked like a cool spot to connect with fellow learners.

I have one small question. I was interested in getting some simple books in spanish, maybe short YA novels or something (ideally something written in spanish, NOT in translation). I'm sure I won't be able to sit and read straight through, but my sister said trying to slog through, underlining all of the unknown words and looking them up can be helpful. Does anyone have any suggestions for easy reads, or where to cheaply get spanish books in the US?

Anyhow, hello and hope to speak to you all soon. Cheers!

-Peter