true lives of Teens - realistic reads
2020-21 Reviews
Furia by Yamile Saied Mendez
Camilla lives a double life. At home, she is a dutiful daughter and focused student. On the futbol field, she is "Furia," a force of nature that destroys any opponent. She loves the game and believes her success on the field could be her ticket out of Argentina, but she hasn't even told her parents she is still playing. In Argentina, only recently has it been legal for women to play soccer, and she is sure her parents won't approve. When her childhood best friend turned first love, Diego, comes back to town after playing soccer in Italy, Furia has some difficult choices to make. She loves Diego, but she doesn't want to give up her dreams of playing soccer for him. Can she even trust the promises of soccers latest superstar? One thing is certain; Camilla needs to be Furia full-time if she is going find the right path to turn her dreams into a reality. I am crazy about this book! It had the perfect mix of sports action, personal struggle, and romance. I cheered for Camilla/Furia to achieve both her soccer dreams and her dreams of having a relationship with Diego. This book was a peek into what it is like to be a girl in Argentina, and I felt so connected to Camilla's struggles. I can't wait to read more from this fantastic new talent. Highly, highly recommended!
Camilla lives a double life. At home, she is a dutiful daughter and focused student. On the futbol field, she is "Furia," a force of nature that destroys any opponent. She loves the game and believes her success on the field could be her ticket out of Argentina, but she hasn't even told her parents she is still playing. In Argentina, only recently has it been legal for women to play soccer, and she is sure her parents won't approve. When her childhood best friend turned first love, Diego, comes back to town after playing soccer in Italy, Furia has some difficult choices to make. She loves Diego, but she doesn't want to give up her dreams of playing soccer for him. Can she even trust the promises of soccers latest superstar? One thing is certain; Camilla needs to be Furia full-time if she is going find the right path to turn her dreams into a reality. I am crazy about this book! It had the perfect mix of sports action, personal struggle, and romance. I cheered for Camilla/Furia to achieve both her soccer dreams and her dreams of having a relationship with Diego. This book was a peek into what it is like to be a girl in Argentina, and I felt so connected to Camilla's struggles. I can't wait to read more from this fantastic new talent. Highly, highly recommended!
2019-20 Reviews
A Heart in a Body in the World by Deb Caletti
Once upon a time, Annabelle was a pretty and popular girl who loved her life and believed in happy endings. That was before she met "The Taker," the person who stole her confidence and trust. Unable to move forward mentally, Annabelle starts running and doesn't stop. She decides that she can't go home and begins running from her home state of Washington to Washington D.C. She doesn't want to be protesting, but she doesn't know what else to do to make things right. As Annabelle makes her way across the country, she is cheered on by family, friends, and even strangers, Unfortunately, Annabelle still can't seem to outrun her shame and guilt over what happened, and memories of The Taker continues to infect everything. By the time she reaches D.C., will she finally be ready to move forward? This profound and powerful novel speaks honestly about trying to move forward after a tragedy that seems to take everything from you. As you run with Annabelle, you too will feel horrified and haunted. Your heart will beat with hers at she begins to heal after unspeakable tragedy. This is gorgeous prose and essential reading. Highly, highly recommended!
Once upon a time, Annabelle was a pretty and popular girl who loved her life and believed in happy endings. That was before she met "The Taker," the person who stole her confidence and trust. Unable to move forward mentally, Annabelle starts running and doesn't stop. She decides that she can't go home and begins running from her home state of Washington to Washington D.C. She doesn't want to be protesting, but she doesn't know what else to do to make things right. As Annabelle makes her way across the country, she is cheered on by family, friends, and even strangers, Unfortunately, Annabelle still can't seem to outrun her shame and guilt over what happened, and memories of The Taker continues to infect everything. By the time she reaches D.C., will she finally be ready to move forward? This profound and powerful novel speaks honestly about trying to move forward after a tragedy that seems to take everything from you. As you run with Annabelle, you too will feel horrified and haunted. Your heart will beat with hers at she begins to heal after unspeakable tragedy. This is gorgeous prose and essential reading. Highly, highly recommended!
Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds
When the school bell rings at 3:00, that is when the best stories happen. Stories about the power of spare change, the importance of watching where you are going, the security of having a friend who always has your back, and more. In a series of vignettes, Reynolds gives us 10 tales covering the complicated lives of kids who live on 10 blocks in the same neighborhood. Each story is a brilliant gem that shines a light on the real lives of kids. Some tales will make you chuckle, and others will have you reaching for a tissue. Reynolds, a genius storyteller, has once again created a book that appeals to all ages: upper elementary, middle school, high school, and adults will not be able to help stepping into the shoes of each of these characters. It is also whiplash fast read that you cannot put down. Jason Reynolds is magic, and this latest work reinforces this. Highly, highly recommended!
When the school bell rings at 3:00, that is when the best stories happen. Stories about the power of spare change, the importance of watching where you are going, the security of having a friend who always has your back, and more. In a series of vignettes, Reynolds gives us 10 tales covering the complicated lives of kids who live on 10 blocks in the same neighborhood. Each story is a brilliant gem that shines a light on the real lives of kids. Some tales will make you chuckle, and others will have you reaching for a tissue. Reynolds, a genius storyteller, has once again created a book that appeals to all ages: upper elementary, middle school, high school, and adults will not be able to help stepping into the shoes of each of these characters. It is also whiplash fast read that you cannot put down. Jason Reynolds is magic, and this latest work reinforces this. Highly, highly recommended!
With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo
Emoni became a mom in 9th grade, and she has been forced to put her dreams on the back burner in order to be the best parent to her daughter. Now a Senior, Emoni is facing big decisions about her future. She has always loved created decadent and delicious dishes for her friends and family, and Emoni dreams of becoming a chef. Taking a special cooking class in school has her even more excited. However, night hours and being a single mom are not a great combination. With her future on the line, Emoni has to decide if she can be a parent and follow her passion in life, love, and food. I loved multi-award winning Acevedo's second book. The flavors Emoni creates waft from the pages of the book, and I dream of their being a tasting menu to match the book's recipes. The characters of the book have a lot of heart as they fight for their dreams, including Emoni's mixed emotions as she falls for a boy when she doesn't really want the drama dating could bring. Highly recommended!
Emoni became a mom in 9th grade, and she has been forced to put her dreams on the back burner in order to be the best parent to her daughter. Now a Senior, Emoni is facing big decisions about her future. She has always loved created decadent and delicious dishes for her friends and family, and Emoni dreams of becoming a chef. Taking a special cooking class in school has her even more excited. However, night hours and being a single mom are not a great combination. With her future on the line, Emoni has to decide if she can be a parent and follow her passion in life, love, and food. I loved multi-award winning Acevedo's second book. The flavors Emoni creates waft from the pages of the book, and I dream of their being a tasting menu to match the book's recipes. The characters of the book have a lot of heart as they fight for their dreams, including Emoni's mixed emotions as she falls for a boy when she doesn't really want the drama dating could bring. Highly recommended!
On the Come Up by Angie Thomas
While some girls dream of being a princess in castle, Bri has always dreamed of becoming a queen of rap. After killing it her first time in the ring, Bri is starting to feel confident, but an incident of racial harassment at school makes her anger overflow. In her rage, she creates a powerful and controversial song called "On the Come Up." As the song goes viral, Bri's dreams of making it big are getting closer to reality. The fame and money can't come fast enough. As her family's fridge gets emptier and more bills are going unpaid, Bri's rapping needs to make money, or her family may be homeless. However, as music producers want Bri to fit a certain image, she has to decide what is worth more important: being true to herself or finding fame and wealth in rapping? No matter what, no one is going to stop Bri "on the come up." Angie Thomas' second novel hiply avoids the sophomore slump. Once again her writing is on point. Her characters are fresh and original and fight back anyone trying to fit them into stereotypes. Bri fights fiercely for her voice to be heard, her raps to be respected, and her family to be taken care of, and you have to cheer for her as she fights for her dreams. Her friends and family are equally fierce, funny, and poignant. At times, Thomas' dialogue had me laughing out loud, and other moments I was fighting tears. Like Bri, Thomas is a Wordsmith who uses language with precision and care to create a story that will leave you hungering for more. Highly, highly recommended!
While some girls dream of being a princess in castle, Bri has always dreamed of becoming a queen of rap. After killing it her first time in the ring, Bri is starting to feel confident, but an incident of racial harassment at school makes her anger overflow. In her rage, she creates a powerful and controversial song called "On the Come Up." As the song goes viral, Bri's dreams of making it big are getting closer to reality. The fame and money can't come fast enough. As her family's fridge gets emptier and more bills are going unpaid, Bri's rapping needs to make money, or her family may be homeless. However, as music producers want Bri to fit a certain image, she has to decide what is worth more important: being true to herself or finding fame and wealth in rapping? No matter what, no one is going to stop Bri "on the come up." Angie Thomas' second novel hiply avoids the sophomore slump. Once again her writing is on point. Her characters are fresh and original and fight back anyone trying to fit them into stereotypes. Bri fights fiercely for her voice to be heard, her raps to be respected, and her family to be taken care of, and you have to cheer for her as she fights for her dreams. Her friends and family are equally fierce, funny, and poignant. At times, Thomas' dialogue had me laughing out loud, and other moments I was fighting tears. Like Bri, Thomas is a Wordsmith who uses language with precision and care to create a story that will leave you hungering for more. Highly, highly recommended!
Reviews Before 2019
Aftermath by Clara Kensie
After four horrific years in her kidnapper's attic, Charlotte has finally been found. While she was suffering unimaginable things, the one thing that sustained her was that she was protecting her amazing family. Her parents are the loving and wonderful, and her twin sister is her best friend. Her kidnapper threatened that he would hurt them if she didn't do what he wanted, and so she has been dedicated to keeping them safe. The only problem is that now she is free her family is not who she remembered. Her parents are divorced, and her dad is remarried with a new baby. Her mom drinks too much, and her sister is an addict who seems to hate her. The one thing that is keeping her from falling apart in her new world is that she has a goal. She knows her kidnapper took another girl who was never found, and she feels if she can find her and bring her family closure, maybe can save herself as well. However, her searches lead her to answers about her own disappearance that she never imagined. This kidnapping story had a shocking ending, and I could not put it down. Highly recommended!
After four horrific years in her kidnapper's attic, Charlotte has finally been found. While she was suffering unimaginable things, the one thing that sustained her was that she was protecting her amazing family. Her parents are the loving and wonderful, and her twin sister is her best friend. Her kidnapper threatened that he would hurt them if she didn't do what he wanted, and so she has been dedicated to keeping them safe. The only problem is that now she is free her family is not who she remembered. Her parents are divorced, and her dad is remarried with a new baby. Her mom drinks too much, and her sister is an addict who seems to hate her. The one thing that is keeping her from falling apart in her new world is that she has a goal. She knows her kidnapper took another girl who was never found, and she feels if she can find her and bring her family closure, maybe can save herself as well. However, her searches lead her to answers about her own disappearance that she never imagined. This kidnapping story had a shocking ending, and I could not put it down. Highly recommended!
All American Boys by Jason Reynolds & Brendan Kiely
There are some books that open your eyes to a world of an injustice that you never noticed, that change your perspective forever. This is such a book. In alternating voices, Rashad and Quinn share a tale on how they were changed by racism. While buying chips at a convenience store, a police officer accuses Rashad of stealing and beats him into unconsciousness for "resisting arrest." Quinn, a white teen, saw the beating and doesn't know what to do. He can't believe Paul, the police officer who has been his mentor for years, could do something so hateful, but he can't believe Rashad deserved the beating he received. Each will have to decide what to do with the latest example of police brutality and how far they are willing to go to stop more deaths from police brutality from occurring. This topic has been in the news and on all of our minds, and Reynolds and Kiely do a brilliant job of making the reader face the racism still inherent in our society. I could not put the book down, and I highly recommend it.
There are some books that open your eyes to a world of an injustice that you never noticed, that change your perspective forever. This is such a book. In alternating voices, Rashad and Quinn share a tale on how they were changed by racism. While buying chips at a convenience store, a police officer accuses Rashad of stealing and beats him into unconsciousness for "resisting arrest." Quinn, a white teen, saw the beating and doesn't know what to do. He can't believe Paul, the police officer who has been his mentor for years, could do something so hateful, but he can't believe Rashad deserved the beating he received. Each will have to decide what to do with the latest example of police brutality and how far they are willing to go to stop more deaths from police brutality from occurring. This topic has been in the news and on all of our minds, and Reynolds and Kiely do a brilliant job of making the reader face the racism still inherent in our society. I could not put the book down, and I highly recommend it.
All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven
Violet and Finch share an obsession with death. Although they go to the same school, the first time they talk is on their school's bell tower as they both contemplate suicide. Finch has struggled with depression his entire life, and Violet is struggling to stay afloat since her sister's death the year before. Seeing someone else struggling keeps both of them from jumping that day. Although they come from two different worlds, Violet and Finch's shared pain brings them closer together. In each other, they find the person that can push them to be braver and better. However, will their love be enough as their past demons draw near? This powerful novel will break your heart and make you fight harder to protect those you love. Amazing!
Violet and Finch share an obsession with death. Although they go to the same school, the first time they talk is on their school's bell tower as they both contemplate suicide. Finch has struggled with depression his entire life, and Violet is struggling to stay afloat since her sister's death the year before. Seeing someone else struggling keeps both of them from jumping that day. Although they come from two different worlds, Violet and Finch's shared pain brings them closer together. In each other, they find the person that can push them to be braver and better. However, will their love be enough as their past demons draw near? This powerful novel will break your heart and make you fight harder to protect those you love. Amazing!
American Panda by Gloria Chao
At age 17, Mei Lu is already a freshman at MIT, on her way to fulfilling her parents' dreams of her becoming a doctor. Unfortunately, Mei is terrified of germs and is nearly certain that becoming a doctor would kill her. However, she is even more terrified of what her Taiwanese family would do if she chose another major. Her older brother, who is attending medical school at Dartmouth, has already been disowned because he fell in love with a Taiwanese girl her parents didn't approve of. Mei knows admitting her true feelings about becoming a doctor may produce the same result. She can't even imagine their reaction if she told them that she also has a crush on a cute Japanese American boy. Mei loves her parents and her brother, but the rigid traditions that control their lives are destroying her. This Taiwanese/American girl will have to find her voice to fight for her dreams and rebuild the family she loves. Chau's debut novel made me aware of the rigid expectations that the kids of some first generation immigrants still have to follow today. I also appreciated how she pointed out that this was one girl's experience and that all families are different. There is not a single story for all Taiwanese immigrants. Although I got as stressed as Mei as she was being destroyed by her parent's rules, the second half of the book was a breath of fresh air as Mei found her voice to fight for her dreams. An important new story in our expanding diverse literature renaissance.
At age 17, Mei Lu is already a freshman at MIT, on her way to fulfilling her parents' dreams of her becoming a doctor. Unfortunately, Mei is terrified of germs and is nearly certain that becoming a doctor would kill her. However, she is even more terrified of what her Taiwanese family would do if she chose another major. Her older brother, who is attending medical school at Dartmouth, has already been disowned because he fell in love with a Taiwanese girl her parents didn't approve of. Mei knows admitting her true feelings about becoming a doctor may produce the same result. She can't even imagine their reaction if she told them that she also has a crush on a cute Japanese American boy. Mei loves her parents and her brother, but the rigid traditions that control their lives are destroying her. This Taiwanese/American girl will have to find her voice to fight for her dreams and rebuild the family she loves. Chau's debut novel made me aware of the rigid expectations that the kids of some first generation immigrants still have to follow today. I also appreciated how she pointed out that this was one girl's experience and that all families are different. There is not a single story for all Taiwanese immigrants. Although I got as stressed as Mei as she was being destroyed by her parent's rules, the second half of the book was a breath of fresh air as Mei found her voice to fight for her dreams. An important new story in our expanding diverse literature renaissance.
American Street by Ibi Zoboi
Fabiola Toussaint and her mom are leaving Haiti in hopes of moving to America for a better life. When Fabiola's mom is detained by immigration, Fabiola is forced to go alone to live with her aunt and cousins in Detroit. This sheltered, studious, and poor girl from Haiti is shocked to discover that her aunt and cousins are not who she thought they were. They are part of the fierce, dangerous, and broken part of Detroit's underbelly. As Fabiola struggles to fit in at her new home, the only person she can look to for wisdom is Papa Legba, a homeless man who Fabiolo believes has been sent to her for advice. When the police offer her a way to free her mom, Fabiolo must decide how much she is willing to give up for her American dream. This gorgeously written tale of the destruction of the American dream will leave you haunted. Fabiola is a strong girl who loves deeply, and you will dream with her as she fights to do what is right and protect the people she loves. Highly recommended!
Fabiola Toussaint and her mom are leaving Haiti in hopes of moving to America for a better life. When Fabiola's mom is detained by immigration, Fabiola is forced to go alone to live with her aunt and cousins in Detroit. This sheltered, studious, and poor girl from Haiti is shocked to discover that her aunt and cousins are not who she thought they were. They are part of the fierce, dangerous, and broken part of Detroit's underbelly. As Fabiola struggles to fit in at her new home, the only person she can look to for wisdom is Papa Legba, a homeless man who Fabiolo believes has been sent to her for advice. When the police offer her a way to free her mom, Fabiolo must decide how much she is willing to give up for her American dream. This gorgeously written tale of the destruction of the American dream will leave you haunted. Fabiola is a strong girl who loves deeply, and you will dream with her as she fights to do what is right and protect the people she loves. Highly recommended!
Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
Leaving a party, Samantha's car crashes, and she dies. The next day, she wakes up and finds herself reliving the day of her death. As she is forced to relive the day of her death over and over, can she every make choices that will give her day the perfect ending, allowing her to live and live well. This is my favorite from Lauren Oliver. At the beginning of the book, it is hard to like Samantha. She is a cruel, popular girl who cares about her image and follows the crowd, but her transformation, as she struggles with anger, wildness, and kindness as she keeps reliving the day of her death, is breathtaking.
Leaving a party, Samantha's car crashes, and she dies. The next day, she wakes up and finds herself reliving the day of her death. As she is forced to relive the day of her death over and over, can she every make choices that will give her day the perfect ending, allowing her to live and live well. This is my favorite from Lauren Oliver. At the beginning of the book, it is hard to like Samantha. She is a cruel, popular girl who cares about her image and follows the crowd, but her transformation, as she struggles with anger, wildness, and kindness as she keeps reliving the day of her death, is breathtaking.
Breaking Beautiful by Jennifer Shaw Wolf
The night of the Valentine's Dance, Allie and her boyfriend were in a horrific car accident that left her boyfriend dead and Allie hurt and without any memories of the accident or the events leading up to it. The only thing Allie knows is that she is so glad that Tripp is finally dead. For the past year, he had been abusing her, and the abuse had been getting progressively worse. Allie really did not believe she was going to get out of the relationship alive. With him gone, she has a chance to start over again, a chance to think to the future and maybe find a boy who won't hurt her. Choosing not to reveal the dark side of Tripp's nature, Allie is forced to endure the prodding of Tripp's family and friends who want her to stay the grieving widow. Both Tripp's parents and the police are eager for Allie to remember what happened that night. However, Allie is afraid of what she will remember about what really happened and who was involved. However, secrets like these can never stayed buried for long. I loved how this book was a bit of mystery, realism, and romance. You cheer Allie as she starts to live again, and like her, you are both afraid and desperate to remember what really happened that night. Filled with shocking twists and interesting characters, I could not put this book down. I loved this one!
The night of the Valentine's Dance, Allie and her boyfriend were in a horrific car accident that left her boyfriend dead and Allie hurt and without any memories of the accident or the events leading up to it. The only thing Allie knows is that she is so glad that Tripp is finally dead. For the past year, he had been abusing her, and the abuse had been getting progressively worse. Allie really did not believe she was going to get out of the relationship alive. With him gone, she has a chance to start over again, a chance to think to the future and maybe find a boy who won't hurt her. Choosing not to reveal the dark side of Tripp's nature, Allie is forced to endure the prodding of Tripp's family and friends who want her to stay the grieving widow. Both Tripp's parents and the police are eager for Allie to remember what happened that night. However, Allie is afraid of what she will remember about what really happened and who was involved. However, secrets like these can never stayed buried for long. I loved how this book was a bit of mystery, realism, and romance. You cheer Allie as she starts to live again, and like her, you are both afraid and desperate to remember what really happened that night. Filled with shocking twists and interesting characters, I could not put this book down. I loved this one!
Boot Camp by Todd Strasser
Garrett is woken up in the middle of the night, handcuffed and driven to a boot camp. He doesn't even know why he is being sent there. However, since his parents have signed over complete control of him to the boot camp, Garrett can call them or any of his relatives to get him out. Once there, he has to endure terrible physical and mental torture while trying to stay true to himself. This is one of those books that you cannot put down. When I started it, I meant to read one page, and I ended up reading for 30 minutes. The torture and brainwashing depicted at the camps is shocking, but what is more shocking is that it is all true. At the end of the book, Strasser includes research about boot camps, and none of it is good.
Garrett is woken up in the middle of the night, handcuffed and driven to a boot camp. He doesn't even know why he is being sent there. However, since his parents have signed over complete control of him to the boot camp, Garrett can call them or any of his relatives to get him out. Once there, he has to endure terrible physical and mental torture while trying to stay true to himself. This is one of those books that you cannot put down. When I started it, I meant to read one page, and I ended up reading for 30 minutes. The torture and brainwashing depicted at the camps is shocking, but what is more shocking is that it is all true. At the end of the book, Strasser includes research about boot camps, and none of it is good.
Bunheads by Sophie Flack
Hannah is corps dancer with the prestigious Manhattan Ballet Company. Hoping to soon reach her goal of becoming a prima ballerina, Hannah's entire world is focused on ballet. She is either practicing ballet, doing other workouts, or performing for the company. She has no time for anything outside of dance if she wants to win the coveted solo spot. In a rare night out, she meets a musician named Jacob. Their chemistry makes her question if the world of dance or the "real" world will make her happiest. This honest window into the cutthroat world of ballet was mesmerizing. In order to achieve a beautiful performance, the dancers must undergo training that is often cruel and body-advice that is often dangerous. Despite their challenges, I was just as conflicted as Sophie about what would be best for her future. How do you decide when a childhood dream is no longer what you want?
Hannah is corps dancer with the prestigious Manhattan Ballet Company. Hoping to soon reach her goal of becoming a prima ballerina, Hannah's entire world is focused on ballet. She is either practicing ballet, doing other workouts, or performing for the company. She has no time for anything outside of dance if she wants to win the coveted solo spot. In a rare night out, she meets a musician named Jacob. Their chemistry makes her question if the world of dance or the "real" world will make her happiest. This honest window into the cutthroat world of ballet was mesmerizing. In order to achieve a beautiful performance, the dancers must undergo training that is often cruel and body-advice that is often dangerous. Despite their challenges, I was just as conflicted as Sophie about what would be best for her future. How do you decide when a childhood dream is no longer what you want?
By the Time You Read This, I'll Be Dead by Julie Anne Peters
Bullied since she was a young girl, Daelyn has attempted to leave the cruelty of this world through multiple suicide attempts. Her last attempt left her unable to speak. Stuck at yet another new school, Daelyn finds a way onto throughthelight.com, an online chat group that supports those that seek suicide, and forms a new plan of death. At the same time, she meets a boy who is kind to her and keeps trying to befriend her. Daelyn does not want a friend; she does not want someone who will tether her to this cruel world. However, Santana won't give up, and they begin talking. As their friendship deepens, will Daelyn finally find a reason to stay in this world or it is too late for her? This story continues you to haunt me. I reread the ending multiple times, and I liked this book even better than Thirteen Reasons Why. I recommend every teen read this book; you will be transformed.
Bullied since she was a young girl, Daelyn has attempted to leave the cruelty of this world through multiple suicide attempts. Her last attempt left her unable to speak. Stuck at yet another new school, Daelyn finds a way onto throughthelight.com, an online chat group that supports those that seek suicide, and forms a new plan of death. At the same time, she meets a boy who is kind to her and keeps trying to befriend her. Daelyn does not want a friend; she does not want someone who will tether her to this cruel world. However, Santana won't give up, and they begin talking. As their friendship deepens, will Daelyn finally find a reason to stay in this world or it is too late for her? This story continues you to haunt me. I reread the ending multiple times, and I liked this book even better than Thirteen Reasons Why. I recommend every teen read this book; you will be transformed.
Caged Warrior by Alan Lawrence Sitomer
Bam Bam is an undefeated underground cage fighter who trains ruthlessly. He is wanted by girls, and for each opponent he destroys, the payouts have gotten bigger. Outside the cage, Bam Bam is known as MCutcheon, a student who excels when in class, and a big brother who is devoted to caring for his younger sister since mom has disappeared and dad is worthless. His whloe life his dad has trained him to believe that cage fighting was their ticket to the good life, but when McCutcheon's name is drawn to attend an elite charter school, he has to decide if he and his sister are better off with him fighting in a cage or a classroom. Sitomer's taunt narrative is hard-hitting and face-paced. McCutcheon is a fighter with great depth, and you will quickly begin cheering for him. Full of twists and turns, I was shocked by the conclusion of this gritty tale. Why can't more 200 page books be as good as this? Just because a book is short doesn't mean it can't be powerful. Like Bam Bam, this book is unbeatable!
Bam Bam is an undefeated underground cage fighter who trains ruthlessly. He is wanted by girls, and for each opponent he destroys, the payouts have gotten bigger. Outside the cage, Bam Bam is known as MCutcheon, a student who excels when in class, and a big brother who is devoted to caring for his younger sister since mom has disappeared and dad is worthless. His whloe life his dad has trained him to believe that cage fighting was their ticket to the good life, but when McCutcheon's name is drawn to attend an elite charter school, he has to decide if he and his sister are better off with him fighting in a cage or a classroom. Sitomer's taunt narrative is hard-hitting and face-paced. McCutcheon is a fighter with great depth, and you will quickly begin cheering for him. Full of twists and turns, I was shocked by the conclusion of this gritty tale. Why can't more 200 page books be as good as this? Just because a book is short doesn't mean it can't be powerful. Like Bam Bam, this book is unbeatable!
Cheated by Patrick Jones
Mick and his good friends spend every weekend together drinking. It is a time for them to relax and let loose. Unfortunately, one night, while Mick and his friends are out trying to get more booze, a homeless man buying for them cheats them out of a few bucks. Mick watches in horror as his enraged friends beat the man to death. The next day, the police come for them, and Mick must make a tough choice. Should he stay true to his friends and not tell the police what happened or should he tell the police the truth to honor the victim? Based on real events in Flint, Michigan, this book will keep you reading.
Mick and his good friends spend every weekend together drinking. It is a time for them to relax and let loose. Unfortunately, one night, while Mick and his friends are out trying to get more booze, a homeless man buying for them cheats them out of a few bucks. Mick watches in horror as his enraged friends beat the man to death. The next day, the police come for them, and Mick must make a tough choice. Should he stay true to his friends and not tell the police what happened or should he tell the police the truth to honor the victim? Based on real events in Flint, Michigan, this book will keep you reading.
Cracked by K. M. Walton
Victor has been bullied his entire life by his parents and other kids, mostly a big kid name Bull. No matter how well Victor does at school, his parents are not satisfied. No matter how hard he tries to blend in, Bull always manages to find him and humiliate him. Sure no one will miss him, Victor attempts suicide and ends up in a psych ward. After one day there, Victor is shocked to receive a roommate, his tormentor Bull. Bull is in the ward because he attempted to shoot his grandfather, who has physically and mentally abused him his entire life, and ended up shooting himself instead. His grandfather tells authorities that Bull was attempting suicide, and now Bull is stuck in the ward with they boy he himself torments. Now the tormentor and the tormented have to face each other. They can destroy each other or save each other. I read this book because a student told me it was his favorite. I can see why. Although this book is filled with healing, there are no rainbow endings or easy answers. This is not an after school special but an honest portrayal of two broken humans looking to become whole. I could not put this book down, and highly recommend it.
Victor has been bullied his entire life by his parents and other kids, mostly a big kid name Bull. No matter how well Victor does at school, his parents are not satisfied. No matter how hard he tries to blend in, Bull always manages to find him and humiliate him. Sure no one will miss him, Victor attempts suicide and ends up in a psych ward. After one day there, Victor is shocked to receive a roommate, his tormentor Bull. Bull is in the ward because he attempted to shoot his grandfather, who has physically and mentally abused him his entire life, and ended up shooting himself instead. His grandfather tells authorities that Bull was attempting suicide, and now Bull is stuck in the ward with they boy he himself torments. Now the tormentor and the tormented have to face each other. They can destroy each other or save each other. I read this book because a student told me it was his favorite. I can see why. Although this book is filled with healing, there are no rainbow endings or easy answers. This is not an after school special but an honest portrayal of two broken humans looking to become whole. I could not put this book down, and highly recommend it.
Dear Martin by Nic Stone
Justyce McAllister may be the top of his class at the elite Brashere Prep School, captain of the debate team, and heading to an Ivy League university, but the cop arresting never bothers to ask him a question to find any of these things out. He is a color not a person. Shaken by the incident, Justyce begins writing letters to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to get inspiration on how to move forward in a way that is peaceful but honest. As tensions escalate, will Martin's words be enough to help Justyce face the storms ahead? This fast and thought-provoking read will hook you from page one. Like Justyce, you will grapple with the best way to move forward in a society that says everyone is equal but whose actions speak differently. I read this book in one night. Highly recommended!
Justyce McAllister may be the top of his class at the elite Brashere Prep School, captain of the debate team, and heading to an Ivy League university, but the cop arresting never bothers to ask him a question to find any of these things out. He is a color not a person. Shaken by the incident, Justyce begins writing letters to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to get inspiration on how to move forward in a way that is peaceful but honest. As tensions escalate, will Martin's words be enough to help Justyce face the storms ahead? This fast and thought-provoking read will hook you from page one. Like Justyce, you will grapple with the best way to move forward in a society that says everyone is equal but whose actions speak differently. I read this book in one night. Highly recommended!
At the Edge of the Universe by Shaun David Hutchinson
Ozzie's boyfriend Tommie has disappeared, not just from his life but from existence. Ozzie knows Tommie was real, but no one else can remember him. As the days pass, Ozzie notices the universe is continuing to shrink. When Ozzie is paired up with the mysterious Calvin in science class, they agree to work together to uncover the mystery before everything in Ozzie's world disappears. This is another heartbreaking and powerful book by the masterful Shaun David Hutchinson.
Ozzie's boyfriend Tommie has disappeared, not just from his life but from existence. Ozzie knows Tommie was real, but no one else can remember him. As the days pass, Ozzie notices the universe is continuing to shrink. When Ozzie is paired up with the mysterious Calvin in science class, they agree to work together to uncover the mystery before everything in Ozzie's world disappears. This is another heartbreaking and powerful book by the masterful Shaun David Hutchinson.
Exit, Pursued by a Bear by E. K. Johnston
At Palermo High School, cheerleaders don't just cheer for teams, they are the team that wins. Hermione Winters and her best friend Polly are co-captains. They are hoping this year will be legendary. It is, but not at all in the way they hoped. During the last night of their summer cheer camp, Hermione's drink is drugged. She wakes up the next day to learn she has been raped. She has no memory of who hurt her, and the "evidence" was destroyed. Therefore, her attacker could have been anyone at the camp, even one of her own team members. When Herminone finds out she is pregnant, she has to make tough choices on how to move forward. With the support of her parents, best friend, teammates, and an amazing psychologist, Hermione is not alone as she fights to find herself and her attacker. Just like Hermione and her Golden Bears, this book is a winner. Johnston does an amazing job chronicling the mixed reactions to Hermione's rape. I love how she surrounded Hermione with the support to find her way out of the terror. I cried at parts and celebrated in others. This is an extraordinary book. Highly recommended!
At Palermo High School, cheerleaders don't just cheer for teams, they are the team that wins. Hermione Winters and her best friend Polly are co-captains. They are hoping this year will be legendary. It is, but not at all in the way they hoped. During the last night of their summer cheer camp, Hermione's drink is drugged. She wakes up the next day to learn she has been raped. She has no memory of who hurt her, and the "evidence" was destroyed. Therefore, her attacker could have been anyone at the camp, even one of her own team members. When Herminone finds out she is pregnant, she has to make tough choices on how to move forward. With the support of her parents, best friend, teammates, and an amazing psychologist, Hermione is not alone as she fights to find herself and her attacker. Just like Hermione and her Golden Bears, this book is a winner. Johnston does an amazing job chronicling the mixed reactions to Hermione's rape. I love how she surrounded Hermione with the support to find her way out of the terror. I cried at parts and celebrated in others. This is an extraordinary book. Highly recommended!
Faking Normal by Courtney C. Stevens
This past summer, something bad happened to Alexi, something so bad she did not want to tell anyone. To deal with the pain, Alexi has started to hurt herself, just a little cut eases her internal anguish. Then Bodee, the strange boy who lives next door, comes to stay with Alexi's family because of bad things that have happened in his house. Though very different, Bodee and Alexi bond over their shared pain. However, can she ever trust him or her family with her secret? I loved this novel about survival, bravery, and hope. The characters in the book are unique and well-drawn, and I could not stop reading to find out who had hurt Alexi and when she would reveal her secret and begin healing. I highly recommend this book.
This past summer, something bad happened to Alexi, something so bad she did not want to tell anyone. To deal with the pain, Alexi has started to hurt herself, just a little cut eases her internal anguish. Then Bodee, the strange boy who lives next door, comes to stay with Alexi's family because of bad things that have happened in his house. Though very different, Bodee and Alexi bond over their shared pain. However, can she ever trust him or her family with her secret? I loved this novel about survival, bravery, and hope. The characters in the book are unique and well-drawn, and I could not stop reading to find out who had hurt Alexi and when she would reveal her secret and begin healing. I highly recommend this book.
Far from the Tree by Robin Benway
Grace still can't believe that she is a teen mother or that she is the bad person in the story. While she was giving birth, the baby's father was getting crowned Homecoming king. Grace gave her baby for adoption because she knows she is not ready to be a mother, but the ache from losing her daughter and her former life nearly overwhelms her. To try to move forward, Grace decides to find her own birth mother, and in the process, she discovers she is no longer an only child. She has a younger sister who was adopted and an older brother who has spent his life in different foster homes. As the siblings get to know each other, they discover what it truly means to be a family. Winner of the National Book Award, this poignant novel will pull you in with its flawed characters fighting for family, friendship, and hope. Highly recommended!
Grace still can't believe that she is a teen mother or that she is the bad person in the story. While she was giving birth, the baby's father was getting crowned Homecoming king. Grace gave her baby for adoption because she knows she is not ready to be a mother, but the ache from losing her daughter and her former life nearly overwhelms her. To try to move forward, Grace decides to find her own birth mother, and in the process, she discovers she is no longer an only child. She has a younger sister who was adopted and an older brother who has spent his life in different foster homes. As the siblings get to know each other, they discover what it truly means to be a family. Winner of the National Book Award, this poignant novel will pull you in with its flawed characters fighting for family, friendship, and hope. Highly recommended!
Fault Line by C. Desir
During his Senior year of high school, Ben starts dating Ani, a new student at his school who is wild and wonderful. Their relationship is perfect until Ani decides to go to a party without Ben. At this party, something terrible happens to Ani, leaving her broken and out of control. Ben does everything he can think of to support her and make her get better, but Ani's moods and behaviors keep getting more dark. What do you do when you cannot save the person you love? This haunting novel will break your heart. It is like watching a terrible accident that horrifies you, but you cannot look away. This is a fast read, and you will not be able to put it down.
During his Senior year of high school, Ben starts dating Ani, a new student at his school who is wild and wonderful. Their relationship is perfect until Ani decides to go to a party without Ben. At this party, something terrible happens to Ani, leaving her broken and out of control. Ben does everything he can think of to support her and make her get better, but Ani's moods and behaviors keep getting more dark. What do you do when you cannot save the person you love? This haunting novel will break your heart. It is like watching a terrible accident that horrifies you, but you cannot look away. This is a fast read, and you will not be able to put it down.
The Five Stages of Andrew Brawley by Shaun David Hutchinson
Andrew Brawley is hiding out from death. Ever since his life was spared in a crash that killed his entire family, Andrew has been living in the hospital trying to hide from his guilt and uncertain future. He works in the cafeteria, hangs out with the ER nurses, plays with the cancer patients, and visits his fake grandmother to avoid looking suspicious. When Rusty, a boy horribly burned by his own friends, shows up at the hospital, Andrew finally meets someone who makes him long for a future. However, he knows it is only a matter of time before he is caught. How did it take me so long to discover Hutchinson's brilliant writing? I was immediately drawn into Andrew's small world that he has created to deal with his endless grief and guilt. The relationships he has with everyone at the hospital are powerfully heartbreaking as you watch them all try to befriend a boy who is dying inside and as you watch Andrew to try to save everyone he has grown to love from death's inescapable reality. This is a phenomenal book!
Andrew Brawley is hiding out from death. Ever since his life was spared in a crash that killed his entire family, Andrew has been living in the hospital trying to hide from his guilt and uncertain future. He works in the cafeteria, hangs out with the ER nurses, plays with the cancer patients, and visits his fake grandmother to avoid looking suspicious. When Rusty, a boy horribly burned by his own friends, shows up at the hospital, Andrew finally meets someone who makes him long for a future. However, he knows it is only a matter of time before he is caught. How did it take me so long to discover Hutchinson's brilliant writing? I was immediately drawn into Andrew's small world that he has created to deal with his endless grief and guilt. The relationships he has with everyone at the hospital are powerfully heartbreaking as you watch them all try to befriend a boy who is dying inside and as you watch Andrew to try to save everyone he has grown to love from death's inescapable reality. This is a phenomenal book!
Forget Me Not by Carolee Dean
Upset that a scandalous photo of herself is texted to her entire school, Ally is hiding out in a back hallway at the school. Elijah finds her there, and he is frightened. He knows things Ally does not know; he knows she is half dead and that she is one choice away from living or dying. In one day, can Elijah convince her that life is worth living? This verse novel discusses the issue of suicide in an innovative way. Ally is poised between life and death as she exists in the hallway filled with other "lost" students. Elijah can see her because he too came close to dying, and he wants to encourage Ally, a girl he has liked from afar, to find a reason to live.
Upset that a scandalous photo of herself is texted to her entire school, Ally is hiding out in a back hallway at the school. Elijah finds her there, and he is frightened. He knows things Ally does not know; he knows she is half dead and that she is one choice away from living or dying. In one day, can Elijah convince her that life is worth living? This verse novel discusses the issue of suicide in an innovative way. Ally is poised between life and death as she exists in the hallway filled with other "lost" students. Elijah can see her because he too came close to dying, and he wants to encourage Ally, a girl he has liked from afar, to find a reason to live.
Girl in Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow
Charlie was found in a hospital parking lot wrapped in a sheet with deep cuts all over her body. Sadly, she was responsible for the damage to her body. Charlie cuts herself to relieve the pain of the abuse, drinking, homelessness, and all the other horrific things she has witnessed in her short life. Her suicide attempt lands her in a mental health facility, and just when she is starting to find her way out of the darkness, she is forced to leave. There is no money to pay for her stay. Luckily, Mikey, a boy she has loved forever, invites her to stay in his home in Tuscon, Arizona. Leaving Minnesota for the heat of Tuscon where she only knows one person is scary, but Charlie is desperate to get her life back on track. As she gets a job, finds her own place to live, works on her art, and falls for a beautiful but damaged man, Charlie will have to fight to put herself back together, or she will get so broken she can't be put back together again. This lyrical and painful novel of falling apart and putting yourself back together again will leave you transformed. You can't help but root for Charlie as she fights for her life amidst countless setbacks, terrible poverty, and shocking tragedy. This is an honest look at the desperate lives some teens face, and it is a book I won't be able to stop thinking about. Highly, highly recommended!
Charlie was found in a hospital parking lot wrapped in a sheet with deep cuts all over her body. Sadly, she was responsible for the damage to her body. Charlie cuts herself to relieve the pain of the abuse, drinking, homelessness, and all the other horrific things she has witnessed in her short life. Her suicide attempt lands her in a mental health facility, and just when she is starting to find her way out of the darkness, she is forced to leave. There is no money to pay for her stay. Luckily, Mikey, a boy she has loved forever, invites her to stay in his home in Tuscon, Arizona. Leaving Minnesota for the heat of Tuscon where she only knows one person is scary, but Charlie is desperate to get her life back on track. As she gets a job, finds her own place to live, works on her art, and falls for a beautiful but damaged man, Charlie will have to fight to put herself back together, or she will get so broken she can't be put back together again. This lyrical and painful novel of falling apart and putting yourself back together again will leave you transformed. You can't help but root for Charlie as she fights for her life amidst countless setbacks, terrible poverty, and shocking tragedy. This is an honest look at the desperate lives some teens face, and it is a book I won't be able to stop thinking about. Highly, highly recommended!
Girl Mans Up by M-E Girard
Pen has never been the girl her mother wants, but she could deal with it because her older brother and the guys that are her best friends had her back. When she finally meets a girl she likes, she is nervous and excited. Then her brother moves out, and her best friend is asking her to do things that cross a line. Pen just wishes everyone would accept her as she is - no labels needed. As Pen's life gets more confusing, she will have to man-up to fight for the life she wants. This authentic and original story will have you cheering for a girl who is desperately trying to be true to herself. Readers will cheer for her as well. Highly recommended!
Pen has never been the girl her mother wants, but she could deal with it because her older brother and the guys that are her best friends had her back. When she finally meets a girl she likes, she is nervous and excited. Then her brother moves out, and her best friend is asking her to do things that cross a line. Pen just wishes everyone would accept her as she is - no labels needed. As Pen's life gets more confusing, she will have to man-up to fight for the life she wants. This authentic and original story will have you cheering for a girl who is desperately trying to be true to herself. Readers will cheer for her as well. Highly recommended!
Goodbye Days by Jeff Zentner
Carter Briggs' senior year was supposed to be epic, filled with crazy adventures with his best friends from the Nashville Academy of the Arts: Eli, Mars and Blake. Carter was supposed to be writing his way into the college of his choice. Then one piece of his writing destroys his dreams. A simple text to his friends leads to their death in a car accident. It is not enough that Carter blames himself; one of his friends' parents wants him to face criminal charges for his role in their death. However, not everyone blames Carter. His family, his psychologist, and Mars' former girlfriend believe in Carter. Blake's amazing grandmother asks Carter to spend a goodbye day with her where they celebrate everything Blake loved and say a final goodbye. Although nervous about the day, it goes so well that other parents request their own goodbye days. Carter is not sure if they truly want to celebrate their sons' lives or want him to suffer even more. But how can he say no? This beautifully written tale of friendship, grief, and guilt will leave you transformed. Carter is a lovable and imperfect narrator whose tenuous ascent out of the darkness caused by the accident will make you both weep and cheer. He writes so humorously about his best friends that the reader will want to be a member of their "sauce crew." I loved the idea of having a goodbye day where you truly celebrate the life of beloved person who has passed away: eating their favorite foods, going to their favorite places, and doing their favorite things. It would be a powerful way to find closure after a heartbreaking loss. This is an exceptional novel. Highly recommended!
Carter Briggs' senior year was supposed to be epic, filled with crazy adventures with his best friends from the Nashville Academy of the Arts: Eli, Mars and Blake. Carter was supposed to be writing his way into the college of his choice. Then one piece of his writing destroys his dreams. A simple text to his friends leads to their death in a car accident. It is not enough that Carter blames himself; one of his friends' parents wants him to face criminal charges for his role in their death. However, not everyone blames Carter. His family, his psychologist, and Mars' former girlfriend believe in Carter. Blake's amazing grandmother asks Carter to spend a goodbye day with her where they celebrate everything Blake loved and say a final goodbye. Although nervous about the day, it goes so well that other parents request their own goodbye days. Carter is not sure if they truly want to celebrate their sons' lives or want him to suffer even more. But how can he say no? This beautifully written tale of friendship, grief, and guilt will leave you transformed. Carter is a lovable and imperfect narrator whose tenuous ascent out of the darkness caused by the accident will make you both weep and cheer. He writes so humorously about his best friends that the reader will want to be a member of their "sauce crew." I loved the idea of having a goodbye day where you truly celebrate the life of beloved person who has passed away: eating their favorite foods, going to their favorite places, and doing their favorite things. It would be a powerful way to find closure after a heartbreaking loss. This is an exceptional novel. Highly recommended!
Hate List by Jennifer Brown
Valerie and her boyfriend Nick created a hate list, a list of all the people who had hurt them. Valerie thought the list was their own private game until Nick comes to school armed and starts shooting everyone who has made the list. To stop him, Valerie gets shot as saves the life of another student. Five months later, Valerie is starting her Senior year of high school. Half of the people at her school think she is responsible for the shooting because she was Nick's girlfriend and created the list with him. The other half think she is a saint for taking a bullet to end the terror. She does not know what to think, and she can't stop herself from missing the boy she truly loved. Where does she go from here? How can she and the school heal? You won't be able to stop reading this honest novel about bullying, school violence, survival and forgiveness.
Valerie and her boyfriend Nick created a hate list, a list of all the people who had hurt them. Valerie thought the list was their own private game until Nick comes to school armed and starts shooting everyone who has made the list. To stop him, Valerie gets shot as saves the life of another student. Five months later, Valerie is starting her Senior year of high school. Half of the people at her school think she is responsible for the shooting because she was Nick's girlfriend and created the list with him. The other half think she is a saint for taking a bullet to end the terror. She does not know what to think, and she can't stop herself from missing the boy she truly loved. Where does she go from here? How can she and the school heal? You won't be able to stop reading this honest novel about bullying, school violence, survival and forgiveness.
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Starr Carter lives in two, very different worlds. At home, she lives in the poor black neighborhood (the ghetto) Garden Heights. Her dad is a former gang member who now owns his own grocery store, so she is known mostly as "Big Mav's daughter." Her parents are happily married, and Starr and her siblings are cherished, if not rich. At Williamsburg prep, Starr is the token black girl, and she is constantly trying not to do anything too "ghetto" or "angry black girl." Although she cares for Chris, the white boyfriend she still hasn't told her dad about, and her Williamsburg friends, she doesn't feel like she can share her real life with them. When Starr was ten, her best friend Natasha was shot in front of her in a gang drive-by. Starr didn't think something worse could happen, but she was wrong. When she and her childhood friend Kahlil leave a party together, they are stopped by a copy for no reason. While waiting outside the vehicle, Kahlil turns to reassure Starr, and the cop shoots and kills him. Kahlil was no angel, but he was unarmed and innocent that night. Now, Starr has decide what she will do with the hate she has been given to try to prevent it from happening from others. This is one of the best novels I have read, ever!!!! Thomas creates such well-drawn characters, and you will fall in love with Starr and her messy and marvelous family and friends. You will laugh out loud as her parents embarrass their kids and cry with them as their dreams of justice seem impossible. There are no stereotypes in this book, only hard truths that will sink into your soul and leave you forever changed. This book may be over 400 pages, but it read quickly. Thomas' story is so amazing that I already want to read it again. If you are going to read anything in the next year, you need to read this book. Highly recommended!
Starr Carter lives in two, very different worlds. At home, she lives in the poor black neighborhood (the ghetto) Garden Heights. Her dad is a former gang member who now owns his own grocery store, so she is known mostly as "Big Mav's daughter." Her parents are happily married, and Starr and her siblings are cherished, if not rich. At Williamsburg prep, Starr is the token black girl, and she is constantly trying not to do anything too "ghetto" or "angry black girl." Although she cares for Chris, the white boyfriend she still hasn't told her dad about, and her Williamsburg friends, she doesn't feel like she can share her real life with them. When Starr was ten, her best friend Natasha was shot in front of her in a gang drive-by. Starr didn't think something worse could happen, but she was wrong. When she and her childhood friend Kahlil leave a party together, they are stopped by a copy for no reason. While waiting outside the vehicle, Kahlil turns to reassure Starr, and the cop shoots and kills him. Kahlil was no angel, but he was unarmed and innocent that night. Now, Starr has decide what she will do with the hate she has been given to try to prevent it from happening from others. This is one of the best novels I have read, ever!!!! Thomas creates such well-drawn characters, and you will fall in love with Starr and her messy and marvelous family and friends. You will laugh out loud as her parents embarrass their kids and cry with them as their dreams of justice seem impossible. There are no stereotypes in this book, only hard truths that will sink into your soul and leave you forever changed. This book may be over 400 pages, but it read quickly. Thomas' story is so amazing that I already want to read it again. If you are going to read anything in the next year, you need to read this book. Highly recommended!
Heroine by Mindy McGinnis
How does a person with no previous issues go from pain management to addiction? McGinnis explores how easy this slide is in her latest novel, Heroine. Mickey is no stranger to pain. As the catcher on her softball team, she has dealt with intense physical training and injuries without complaint. However, after Mickey and her best friend are in a car accident, Mickey's hip is pulled out of socket. One surgery and three screws later, Mickey is terrified that she won't be able to play softball for her Senior season. When Mickey discovers how oxy can make her pain manageable, she is willing to break a few rules to make her rehabilitation and her season possible. The longer she uses oxy, the more it takes to get her fix. As she develops new friends who help her get her fix, Mickey treads a path that may lead to her destruction. This is a powerful and terrifying novel of how anyone could become an addict. Highly recommended!
How does a person with no previous issues go from pain management to addiction? McGinnis explores how easy this slide is in her latest novel, Heroine. Mickey is no stranger to pain. As the catcher on her softball team, she has dealt with intense physical training and injuries without complaint. However, after Mickey and her best friend are in a car accident, Mickey's hip is pulled out of socket. One surgery and three screws later, Mickey is terrified that she won't be able to play softball for her Senior season. When Mickey discovers how oxy can make her pain manageable, she is willing to break a few rules to make her rehabilitation and her season possible. The longer she uses oxy, the more it takes to get her fix. As she develops new friends who help her get her fix, Mickey treads a path that may lead to her destruction. This is a powerful and terrifying novel of how anyone could become an addict. Highly recommended!
Highly Illogical Behavior by John Corey Whaley
Webster's dictionary defines agoraphobia as an "abnormal fear of being helpless in an embarrassing or unescapable situation that is characterized especially by the avoidance of open or public places." Solomon's agoraphobia is so severe that he hasn't stepped outside his house in three years, and he is mostly fine about this. However, Liz, a girl from his previous school, is not. Liz dreams of being a psychologist. She thinks that she can "cure" him and that writing about her success will win her a desperately-need college scholarship. As Liz and her charming boyfriend Clark befriend Solomon, their friendship starts to transform Solomon, but when Solomon is not the only one transformed by their relationship, everything may backfire for all of them. There is an honesty to the characters and relationships in the book that will draw you in and make you cheer for all three main characters. Solomon is self-depricating, Liz is passionate, and Clark is charming. Just like us, they make mistakes, and it is the lies, insecruities, and fears they all hold on to that threaten their happiness. What elevates this novel is that is more about human nature than a single mental health condition. Like Solomon, the reader will be transformed whether they want to or not! Highly recommended!
Webster's dictionary defines agoraphobia as an "abnormal fear of being helpless in an embarrassing or unescapable situation that is characterized especially by the avoidance of open or public places." Solomon's agoraphobia is so severe that he hasn't stepped outside his house in three years, and he is mostly fine about this. However, Liz, a girl from his previous school, is not. Liz dreams of being a psychologist. She thinks that she can "cure" him and that writing about her success will win her a desperately-need college scholarship. As Liz and her charming boyfriend Clark befriend Solomon, their friendship starts to transform Solomon, but when Solomon is not the only one transformed by their relationship, everything may backfire for all of them. There is an honesty to the characters and relationships in the book that will draw you in and make you cheer for all three main characters. Solomon is self-depricating, Liz is passionate, and Clark is charming. Just like us, they make mistakes, and it is the lies, insecruities, and fears they all hold on to that threaten their happiness. What elevates this novel is that is more about human nature than a single mental health condition. Like Solomon, the reader will be transformed whether they want to or not! Highly recommended!
Holding Up the Universe by Jennifer Niven
Once upon a time there was a girl who was so overweight that they had to demolish a a wall of her house to get her out of it. After years of therapy and exercise, Libby Trout is no longer that girl, and she is starting back to school to start experiencing life again. Once upon a time there was a boy who was blind and didn't want anyone to know it. Jack Masselin is sure he has dysphoria, which means he can't even recognize the faces of his own family, but he doesn't want anyone to know his weakness. He has spent years perfecting the art of pretending to know who he is talking with and never letting anyone get close enough to discover his secret. When Libby and Jack get pulled into a vicious game, they are forced to attend group counseling sessions together. Their mutual hatred transforms into mutual attraction as they get to know each other better.
Once upon a time there was a girl who was so overweight that they had to demolish a a wall of her house to get her out of it. After years of therapy and exercise, Libby Trout is no longer that girl, and she is starting back to school to start experiencing life again. Once upon a time there was a boy who was blind and didn't want anyone to know it. Jack Masselin is sure he has dysphoria, which means he can't even recognize the faces of his own family, but he doesn't want anyone to know his weakness. He has spent years perfecting the art of pretending to know who he is talking with and never letting anyone get close enough to discover his secret. When Libby and Jack get pulled into a vicious game, they are forced to attend group counseling sessions together. Their mutual hatred transforms into mutual attraction as they get to know each other better.
How It Went Down by Kekla Magoon
Sixteen year old Tariq Johnson is shot and killed while walking home. The shooter is a white man who claims Tariq had a gun. Everyone has a different version of what happened, but you will have to read the book if you want to understand what really went down.
Sixteen year old Tariq Johnson is shot and killed while walking home. The shooter is a white man who claims Tariq had a gun. Everyone has a different version of what happened, but you will have to read the book if you want to understand what really went down.
How to Save a Life by Sara Zarr
This novel is told from the perspectives of two very different girls united by fate. Jill is hurt because her mother is adopting a baby to deal with the loss of her husband, Jill's dad. Jill wonders why she is not enough for her mother. Even worse, the baby is from some girl she met online. Jill knows her mother is going to get conned out of a lot of money and a baby, and she is furious that her mother is allowing this girl to live with them until the baby is born. Mandy, a pregnant teen, is giving her baby to Jill's mom, so her baby can have a better life than hers, a life where she is loved and protected. This powerful story of love and healing will inspire you. At the beginning of the book, Jill is not a very likable narrator, and Mandy is untrustworthy. However, if you keep reading, you will find a story that will stick with you.
This novel is told from the perspectives of two very different girls united by fate. Jill is hurt because her mother is adopting a baby to deal with the loss of her husband, Jill's dad. Jill wonders why she is not enough for her mother. Even worse, the baby is from some girl she met online. Jill knows her mother is going to get conned out of a lot of money and a baby, and she is furious that her mother is allowing this girl to live with them until the baby is born. Mandy, a pregnant teen, is giving her baby to Jill's mom, so her baby can have a better life than hers, a life where she is loved and protected. This powerful story of love and healing will inspire you. At the beginning of the book, Jill is not a very likable narrator, and Mandy is untrustworthy. However, if you keep reading, you will find a story that will stick with you.
If I Lie by Corrine Jackson
Living in a small, military town, Quinn does the unthinkable when she is caught kissing another boy while her own boyfriend, Carey, is serving in Afghanistan. Reviled and ostracized, Quinn could clear her name but chooses not to in order to protect the secret of someone she loves. However, when Carey goes missing, Quinn must decide how long she can keep living a lie. This fast-past and surprising novel was hard to put down. I could not stop reading as I watched Quinn bravely face cruelty to protect a person she loves dearly. I highly recommend this book.
Living in a small, military town, Quinn does the unthinkable when she is caught kissing another boy while her own boyfriend, Carey, is serving in Afghanistan. Reviled and ostracized, Quinn could clear her name but chooses not to in order to protect the secret of someone she loves. However, when Carey goes missing, Quinn must decide how long she can keep living a lie. This fast-past and surprising novel was hard to put down. I could not stop reading as I watched Quinn bravely face cruelty to protect a person she loves dearly. I highly recommend this book.
From the first day of his Senior, Sal could feel his life stable life was deserting him. Although he is surrounded by the love of his adoptive Mexican family, he is heartbroken because his beloved grandmother is dying. Also, he is angry all the time, which usually ends up with him punching someone, something he has never done before. When even more catastrophic events happen to his best friends, Sam and Fito, all three of them have to work together to keep grief from drowning them alive. Saenz's lyrically written prose is so poignant that I wanted to hug the novel afterwards. Like Sal treasured and saved the yellow leaves from his favorite memory with his grandmother, you will treasure passages from their journey. I didn't mean to fall in love with this book, but inexplicably, it happened. I couldn't stop myself from loving Sal, his gentle father, his caring grandmother, his loud family, and his scarred friends. If you want a book that will make your heart grow three times bigger, this is the book. Highly recommended!
In Ecstasy by Kate McCaffrey
Sophie and Mia have been best friends since childhood. When they are offered X at a party, both of them take it. Ecstasy is not that addictive, and it is meant to be fun. However, this one decision leads to events that will take them down dark and different paths, leaving them searching for a way back to themselves and their friendship. Fans of Ellen Hopkins books will appreciate this tale of how one choice can change your life forever.
Sophie and Mia have been best friends since childhood. When they are offered X at a party, both of them take it. Ecstasy is not that addictive, and it is meant to be fun. However, this one decision leads to events that will take them down dark and different paths, leaving them searching for a way back to themselves and their friendship. Fans of Ellen Hopkins books will appreciate this tale of how one choice can change your life forever.
Infinite in Between by Carolyn Mackler
Five very different teens are assigned to the same freshman orientation group. Told over their four years of high school, it is amazing to watch how each of their lives changes for good or bad. It is amazing how their stories become connected as they transform. A powerful story of high school life and friendship.
Five very different teens are assigned to the same freshman orientation group. Told over their four years of high school, it is amazing to watch how each of their lives changes for good or bad. It is amazing how their stories become connected as they transform. A powerful story of high school life and friendship.
Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta
Let me start this review by saying that this is one of my favorite books ever. It reminds me a mature version Holes by Louis Sachar; it weaves together multiple, seemingly separate stories, until a powerful, unified tale begins to be revealed. I must also admit that for the first 50 pages of the book, I hated the book. It was confusing, and the characters not likable. However, once I realized the connection between the disparate stories, I was hoooked. With this disclaimer, here is a summary of the book. Abandoned on Jellicoe Road by her mother, Taylor now lives at the Jellicoe School and is the leader of the students there. When her caretaker, Hannah, disappears, Taylor's only clue to her whereabouts is a story Hannah had written about five kids. At the same time, Taylor must also face Jonah, the leader of the military cadets staying near Jellicoe School. These groups have always fought, and Jonah and Taylor have a past that can't seem to forget. Watch the past and present collide in this powerful story of friendship, love and loss. It is a challenging read, but if you keep with it, your reward will be great. Highly recommended.
Let me start this review by saying that this is one of my favorite books ever. It reminds me a mature version Holes by Louis Sachar; it weaves together multiple, seemingly separate stories, until a powerful, unified tale begins to be revealed. I must also admit that for the first 50 pages of the book, I hated the book. It was confusing, and the characters not likable. However, once I realized the connection between the disparate stories, I was hoooked. With this disclaimer, here is a summary of the book. Abandoned on Jellicoe Road by her mother, Taylor now lives at the Jellicoe School and is the leader of the students there. When her caretaker, Hannah, disappears, Taylor's only clue to her whereabouts is a story Hannah had written about five kids. At the same time, Taylor must also face Jonah, the leader of the military cadets staying near Jellicoe School. These groups have always fought, and Jonah and Taylor have a past that can't seem to forget. Watch the past and present collide in this powerful story of friendship, love and loss. It is a challenging read, but if you keep with it, your reward will be great. Highly recommended.
Jude by Kate Morgentroth
Everyone has moments where they dream that their parents are wealthier and kinder than the ones they are given. After Jude's abusive father dies in a drug deal gone wrong, Jude learns that his fairytale has come true. He was kidnapped as a child by his father, and his mother is a rich lawyer and thrilled to have him home. Life at Jude's new school is not so perfect; the students there want him to be a dealer just like his dad. When Jude is implicated in a crime he did not commit, his mother's new husband convinces him that admitting to the crime would be better for his mother, who is running for office, and promises he will get out of jail ASAP. Once behind bars, Jude learns no one is coming for him. His fairy tale is not so perfect, and he must find his own way to save himself.
Everyone has moments where they dream that their parents are wealthier and kinder than the ones they are given. After Jude's abusive father dies in a drug deal gone wrong, Jude learns that his fairytale has come true. He was kidnapped as a child by his father, and his mother is a rich lawyer and thrilled to have him home. Life at Jude's new school is not so perfect; the students there want him to be a dealer just like his dad. When Jude is implicated in a crime he did not commit, his mother's new husband convinces him that admitting to the crime would be better for his mother, who is running for office, and promises he will get out of jail ASAP. Once behind bars, Jude learns no one is coming for him. His fairy tale is not so perfect, and he must find his own way to save himself.
I Love I Hate I Miss My Sister by Amelie Sarn
Sohane loves her sister, but Djelila also makes her crazy. In a world where the sisters are constantly judged for being too Muslim or not Muslim enough, Sohane tries her best to be a good dutiful daughter. However, Djelila constantly bucks tradition and fights to be her own woman. Sohane wishes her sister would learn to get along, but she never wished Djelila's choices would kill her.
Sohane loves her sister, but Djelila also makes her crazy. In a world where the sisters are constantly judged for being too Muslim or not Muslim enough, Sohane tries her best to be a good dutiful daughter. However, Djelila constantly bucks tradition and fights to be her own woman. Sohane wishes her sister would learn to get along, but she never wished Djelila's choices would kill her.
I Was Here by Gayle Forman
When Cody gets an email from her best friend Meg informing her that she has completed suicide, Cody is shocked and devastated. She had no idea her friend was battling with depression, and she is struggling to move on without the girl who was her better half since they became friends in kindergarten. When Meg's parents ask Cody to clear out their daughter's belongings from her college apartment, she agrees to help, but what she finds there makes her uneasy. Meg's roommates experienced a very different version of her friend, and when she looks on Meg's computers, she finds files and messages that make her wonder if Meg's death was not all her own planning. As Cody struggles to find answers, she will test her own determination, strength and heart. I read this gem from Gayle Forman in a day. Like Cody, I was obsessed to find out why such a talented and popular girl would commit suicide. I loved the complex relationships Forman created between Cody and her mom and Meg's parents. I loved the hopefulness that pushes the reader to believe that they can be better than their past and that life is worth fighting for. Of course, I also appreciated Cody's confusing feelings for Ben, a boy who broke Meg's heart and is on the way to breaking hers. This is a life-affirming story that will keep your thinking. I loved it! It is definitely the best stand-alone title I have read so far in 2015.
When Cody gets an email from her best friend Meg informing her that she has completed suicide, Cody is shocked and devastated. She had no idea her friend was battling with depression, and she is struggling to move on without the girl who was her better half since they became friends in kindergarten. When Meg's parents ask Cody to clear out their daughter's belongings from her college apartment, she agrees to help, but what she finds there makes her uneasy. Meg's roommates experienced a very different version of her friend, and when she looks on Meg's computers, she finds files and messages that make her wonder if Meg's death was not all her own planning. As Cody struggles to find answers, she will test her own determination, strength and heart. I read this gem from Gayle Forman in a day. Like Cody, I was obsessed to find out why such a talented and popular girl would commit suicide. I loved the complex relationships Forman created between Cody and her mom and Meg's parents. I loved the hopefulness that pushes the reader to believe that they can be better than their past and that life is worth fighting for. Of course, I also appreciated Cody's confusing feelings for Ben, a boy who broke Meg's heart and is on the way to breaking hers. This is a life-affirming story that will keep your thinking. I loved it! It is definitely the best stand-alone title I have read so far in 2015.
A Kid From Southie by John "Red" Shea and Michael Harmon
Aiden is not good at much, but he is good at boxing. Unfortunately, boxing does not bring in a lot of money. When his family owes the Irish mob money, Aiden is forced to work for them as an enforcer to pay them back. Aiden does not want the mob to be his future. Each time Aiden is sent on a job, he has to decide how far he will go and if he can ever escape from what he has done. Aiden will need more than his fists to fight his way out of this mess.
Aiden is not good at much, but he is good at boxing. Unfortunately, boxing does not bring in a lot of money. When his family owes the Irish mob money, Aiden is forced to work for them as an enforcer to pay them back. Aiden does not want the mob to be his future. Each time Aiden is sent on a job, he has to decide how far he will go and if he can ever escape from what he has done. Aiden will need more than his fists to fight his way out of this mess.
The List bu Siobhan Vivian
Each year during Homecoming Week, a list is posted at Washington High School. It is a list of the prettiest and ugliest girls from each grade. Imagine finding your name on the list. If you are the prettiest, your life should be perfect, and if you are the ugliest, your life should be destroyed. Told from the perspectives of the eight girls on the list, the girls share how being on this list changes everything for them, rarely for the better. Girls can be very cruel to each other. Read this book and think about how and why girls treat each other so terribly.
Each year during Homecoming Week, a list is posted at Washington High School. It is a list of the prettiest and ugliest girls from each grade. Imagine finding your name on the list. If you are the prettiest, your life should be perfect, and if you are the ugliest, your life should be destroyed. Told from the perspectives of the eight girls on the list, the girls share how being on this list changes everything for them, rarely for the better. Girls can be very cruel to each other. Read this book and think about how and why girls treat each other so terribly.
Little Peach by Peggy Kern
With Grandpa gone, it isn't safe for Michelle to stay with her drug-addicted mother and overly friendly boyfriend anymore. With nowhere else to go, Michelle decides to find her best friend who moved to NYC. Although she can't find her friend, Michelle is found by Devon, a kind guy who gives her a free meal and gets her some clean clothes. He even allows her to stay with him and two other girls at his apartment, but Michelle learns nothing is gotten for free. To help out with the "family's" bills, Michelle must prostitute her body. The graphic story of the harsh life of thousands of young girls who get unwittingly pulled into child prostitution rings will haunt you. What do you do when every choice will destroy a bit of your soul? How can you face the fact that you can't regain what you have lost? How can this horrific crime happen in every community in our country? This is a disturbing novel that will leave you screaming for justice.
With Grandpa gone, it isn't safe for Michelle to stay with her drug-addicted mother and overly friendly boyfriend anymore. With nowhere else to go, Michelle decides to find her best friend who moved to NYC. Although she can't find her friend, Michelle is found by Devon, a kind guy who gives her a free meal and gets her some clean clothes. He even allows her to stay with him and two other girls at his apartment, but Michelle learns nothing is gotten for free. To help out with the "family's" bills, Michelle must prostitute her body. The graphic story of the harsh life of thousands of young girls who get unwittingly pulled into child prostitution rings will haunt you. What do you do when every choice will destroy a bit of your soul? How can you face the fact that you can't regain what you have lost? How can this horrific crime happen in every community in our country? This is a disturbing novel that will leave you screaming for justice.
Living Dead Girl by Elizabeth Scott
At age 10, Ray took Alice away. At age 15, Alice has learned to survive frequent physical and sexual abuse and believes she can never escape. Her one chance of freedom from this suffering is if she helps Ray find a new "girl." If she does this, he promises to kill her, setting her free. Alice does not wish this life for anyone, but will she agree to this to be free of it? This haunting novel made me want to never let my daughter leave my side. I was horrified by Alice's suffering, but even more horrifying is the fact that this is the everyday life for thousands of sex slaves and kidnapped girls. This is a fast and heartbreaking tale that you will never forget.
At age 10, Ray took Alice away. At age 15, Alice has learned to survive frequent physical and sexual abuse and believes she can never escape. Her one chance of freedom from this suffering is if she helps Ray find a new "girl." If she does this, he promises to kill her, setting her free. Alice does not wish this life for anyone, but will she agree to this to be free of it? This haunting novel made me want to never let my daughter leave my side. I was horrified by Alice's suffering, but even more horrifying is the fact that this is the everyday life for thousands of sex slaves and kidnapped girls. This is a fast and heartbreaking tale that you will never forget.
List of Cages by Robin Roe
When Julian is 9 years old, his parents were killed a car accident, and he was placed in a foster home. When his foster family no longer wanted him, his uncle became his guardian. Unfortunately, Julian's uncle should never have been allowed to be a father, and in the five years since then, Julian has learned to follow strict rules to keep his uncle from becoming "upset." Of course, he often makes mistakes and is punished. Now a freshman in high school, Julian runs into his former foster-brother, Adam, and he discovers that they wanted to adopt him, not give him away. Adam still sees Julian as his little brother, and he welcomes him into his circle of friends. When Adam discovers how terrible Julian's home life is, he vows to protect his "brother." However, breaking Julian out of his cage may cost both them their lives. This lyrical and haunting story of abuse, hope, and friendship will captivate readers. Adam and Julian are both such unique and amazing characters, and you can't stop from loving them as much as they love each other. I could not put this book down, and it is a story that will resonate with me always. Highly recommended!
When Julian is 9 years old, his parents were killed a car accident, and he was placed in a foster home. When his foster family no longer wanted him, his uncle became his guardian. Unfortunately, Julian's uncle should never have been allowed to be a father, and in the five years since then, Julian has learned to follow strict rules to keep his uncle from becoming "upset." Of course, he often makes mistakes and is punished. Now a freshman in high school, Julian runs into his former foster-brother, Adam, and he discovers that they wanted to adopt him, not give him away. Adam still sees Julian as his little brother, and he welcomes him into his circle of friends. When Adam discovers how terrible Julian's home life is, he vows to protect his "brother." However, breaking Julian out of his cage may cost both them their lives. This lyrical and haunting story of abuse, hope, and friendship will captivate readers. Adam and Julian are both such unique and amazing characters, and you can't stop from loving them as much as they love each other. I could not put this book down, and it is a story that will resonate with me always. Highly recommended!
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
After Will's older brother Shawn is gunned down, he knows he has to follow the rules handed down by the men in his family for generations. Rule 1: No crying. Rule 2: No snitching. Rule 3: Get revenge. With his brother's gun, Will sets out in the elevator the next morning intent on following the "rules" and eliminating the kid he is sure is responsible. However, the elevator ride down is more difficult than he imagined. On each floor down, someone from his past joins him, and Will will have to decide if he wants to follow the rules or forge a new path. This verse novel will shock you with its raw honesty. Will is a scared kid who honestly believes he has no choice but avenge his brother's murder. Without a choice, you are a slave, but how do you break your bonds if you don't even realize you are wearing any. This National Book Award for Young Persons finalist is an essential read. Jason Reynolds continues to amaze. Highly recommended!
After Will's older brother Shawn is gunned down, he knows he has to follow the rules handed down by the men in his family for generations. Rule 1: No crying. Rule 2: No snitching. Rule 3: Get revenge. With his brother's gun, Will sets out in the elevator the next morning intent on following the "rules" and eliminating the kid he is sure is responsible. However, the elevator ride down is more difficult than he imagined. On each floor down, someone from his past joins him, and Will will have to decide if he wants to follow the rules or forge a new path. This verse novel will shock you with its raw honesty. Will is a scared kid who honestly believes he has no choice but avenge his brother's murder. Without a choice, you are a slave, but how do you break your bonds if you don't even realize you are wearing any. This National Book Award for Young Persons finalist is an essential read. Jason Reynolds continues to amaze. Highly recommended!
Love, Hate, and Other Filters by Samira Ahmed
Maya was born and raised in the United States but that does not stop her parents from wanting her to be a traditional Indian daughter or from bigots for blaming her family for the actions a few zealots. Maya's passion is film-making, and she doesn't know how to tell her parents she wants to study film at NYU, a double sin for being an irresponsible major in a city too far from home. She definitely can't tell them that she is falling for the quarterback of the football team, who definitely is not Muslim or Indian. When an devastating attack occurs in her hometown, the consequences are terrible. In the wake of the tragedy, Maya will have to decide what dreams she wants to fight for and who she can trust with her heart. This coming of age story combines romance, friendship, family drama, and Islamophobia into a concise, powerful, and fast-paced read. I loved Ahmed's original characters and plot lines, and she struggled to find love and her own voice when her parents and the rest of the world wanted to put her in the corner. This book is a gem! Highly recommended!
Maya was born and raised in the United States but that does not stop her parents from wanting her to be a traditional Indian daughter or from bigots for blaming her family for the actions a few zealots. Maya's passion is film-making, and she doesn't know how to tell her parents she wants to study film at NYU, a double sin for being an irresponsible major in a city too far from home. She definitely can't tell them that she is falling for the quarterback of the football team, who definitely is not Muslim or Indian. When an devastating attack occurs in her hometown, the consequences are terrible. In the wake of the tragedy, Maya will have to decide what dreams she wants to fight for and who she can trust with her heart. This coming of age story combines romance, friendship, family drama, and Islamophobia into a concise, powerful, and fast-paced read. I loved Ahmed's original characters and plot lines, and she struggled to find love and her own voice when her parents and the rest of the world wanted to put her in the corner. This book is a gem! Highly recommended!
Love Letters to the Dead by Ava Dellaira
“When we are in love, we are both completely in danger and completely saved.”
“Truth is beautiful, no matter what the truth is. Even if it's scary or bad. It is beauty simply because it's true. And truth is bright. Truth makes you more you.”
“There are a lot of human experiences that challenge the limits of our language,” she said. “That’s one of the reasons that we have poetry.”
"You might want someone else to save you, or you might want to save someone so badly, but no one else can save you, not really, not from yourself."
Reading Love Letters to the Dead was a poetic and painful journey into one girl's fight to keep living after her sister dies. What starts as an English assignment to write to someone who has died becomes profound as Laurel pours out her worries and hopes in letters to famous dead such as Kurt Cobain, Amelia Earhart, and Janis Joplin. As she deals with the emotional fallout caused by her sister's death, she must face the terrible truths surrounding it that continue to haunt her. At the same time, she must navigate starting high school, finding new friends, and falling in love without the advice of her beloved older sister. Filled with quotable lines (see above) and powerful poems from the masters, this is a book whose story and language you will savor long after you finish the last line. Reminiscent of Chobsky's Perks of Being a Wallflower, fans of that novel should definitely pick up this one.
“When we are in love, we are both completely in danger and completely saved.”
“Truth is beautiful, no matter what the truth is. Even if it's scary or bad. It is beauty simply because it's true. And truth is bright. Truth makes you more you.”
“There are a lot of human experiences that challenge the limits of our language,” she said. “That’s one of the reasons that we have poetry.”
"You might want someone else to save you, or you might want to save someone so badly, but no one else can save you, not really, not from yourself."
Reading Love Letters to the Dead was a poetic and painful journey into one girl's fight to keep living after her sister dies. What starts as an English assignment to write to someone who has died becomes profound as Laurel pours out her worries and hopes in letters to famous dead such as Kurt Cobain, Amelia Earhart, and Janis Joplin. As she deals with the emotional fallout caused by her sister's death, she must face the terrible truths surrounding it that continue to haunt her. At the same time, she must navigate starting high school, finding new friends, and falling in love without the advice of her beloved older sister. Filled with quotable lines (see above) and powerful poems from the masters, this is a book whose story and language you will savor long after you finish the last line. Reminiscent of Chobsky's Perks of Being a Wallflower, fans of that novel should definitely pick up this one.
(Me, Him, Them, and It) by Caela Carter
Me - Evelyn - I am former good girl gone wild.
Him - The boy I sleep with but definitely don't love.
Them - The people who broke my heart when they nearly divorced after my dad cheated on my mom.
It - The child growing inside me that will change everything.
Evelyn's anger over he parent's betrayal had made her hate herself and everyone around her. With a baby growing inside her, Evelyn must make tough choices to do what is best for herself, her baby, and her family. Abort? Have the baby? Keep the baby? Give up the baby? These are decisions no one wants to face, but Evelyn only has a few months to decide. Evelyn is not very likable at the beginning of the book, but her confusion about what to do with her pregnancy and her struggles to let go of her anger are honest.
Me - Evelyn - I am former good girl gone wild.
Him - The boy I sleep with but definitely don't love.
Them - The people who broke my heart when they nearly divorced after my dad cheated on my mom.
It - The child growing inside me that will change everything.
Evelyn's anger over he parent's betrayal had made her hate herself and everyone around her. With a baby growing inside her, Evelyn must make tough choices to do what is best for herself, her baby, and her family. Abort? Have the baby? Keep the baby? Give up the baby? These are decisions no one wants to face, but Evelyn only has a few months to decide. Evelyn is not very likable at the beginning of the book, but her confusion about what to do with her pregnancy and her struggles to let go of her anger are honest.
Moxie by Jennifer Mathieu
What is a Moxie girl? A Moxie girl speaks up when the women around her are facing sexist actions and fights the system for her rights. Vivian's mom, an outspoken feminist, would have been a Moxie girl when she was in high school, but Vivian has always been to o scared to speak out against the obvious sexist actions of the staff and students at her high school. When the attacks on her friends grow unacceptable, Vivian turns to her mother's old zines, homemade magazines, for inspiration. She creates a zine called Moxie and secretly distributes them around the school. Vivian is not sure if her words and ideas will make a difference, but she quickly learns that she is not the only girl sick of the sexist words and actions of male staff and students. As the Moxie girls unite, their actions are threatened with expulsion from the administration. Vivian will have to decide once and for all if she is a Moxie girl or not. I loved this fresh book about girl power in the 21st century. Speaking as a woman during Vivian's mom's era, I remember reading Sassy magazine, a magazine for smart, fashionable and feminist girls, and being proud of the fact that girls were finally becoming doctors, lawyers, and cooperate executives. However, the battle, which I had hoped was over, continues today with the #me too movement and our continued fight to have control of our bodies. This is a fun and thought-provoking read for any teenage feminist. Moxie girls fight back! Highly recommended!
What is a Moxie girl? A Moxie girl speaks up when the women around her are facing sexist actions and fights the system for her rights. Vivian's mom, an outspoken feminist, would have been a Moxie girl when she was in high school, but Vivian has always been to o scared to speak out against the obvious sexist actions of the staff and students at her high school. When the attacks on her friends grow unacceptable, Vivian turns to her mother's old zines, homemade magazines, for inspiration. She creates a zine called Moxie and secretly distributes them around the school. Vivian is not sure if her words and ideas will make a difference, but she quickly learns that she is not the only girl sick of the sexist words and actions of male staff and students. As the Moxie girls unite, their actions are threatened with expulsion from the administration. Vivian will have to decide once and for all if she is a Moxie girl or not. I loved this fresh book about girl power in the 21st century. Speaking as a woman during Vivian's mom's era, I remember reading Sassy magazine, a magazine for smart, fashionable and feminist girls, and being proud of the fact that girls were finally becoming doctors, lawyers, and cooperate executives. However, the battle, which I had hoped was over, continues today with the #me too movement and our continued fight to have control of our bodies. This is a fun and thought-provoking read for any teenage feminist. Moxie girls fight back! Highly recommended!
My Life in Black & White by Natasha Friend
Lexie and Sophie are best friends. Lexie has always been known for her beauty, but when she leaves a party with Sophie's brother, they get in an accident. Lexie's face goes through the windshield, and suddenly, the popular girl known for her beauty must find a new life for herself. With the help of her unpopular sister and a mysterious boy, Lexie learns to love herself. Fans of Sarah Dessen will appreciate this tale of survival and acceptance.
Lexie and Sophie are best friends. Lexie has always been known for her beauty, but when she leaves a party with Sophie's brother, they get in an accident. Lexie's face goes through the windshield, and suddenly, the popular girl known for her beauty must find a new life for herself. With the help of her unpopular sister and a mysterious boy, Lexie learns to love herself. Fans of Sarah Dessen will appreciate this tale of survival and acceptance.
The Names They Gave Us by Emery Lord
For Lucy, the summer before her Senior year keeps getting worse. Her mother's cancer is back with a vengeance. Her boyfriend put their relationship on "pause." She is so mad at God that she can't even pray. Now, her mom wants her to spend the summer not at their Bible camp, but at the camp across the lake that works with children struggling with tough issues. Lucy expects to hate working at the camp and find little in common with the counselors there, but instead, she discovers true friends who have lived through pain and loss and will walk that road with her hand in hand. She finds a boy who likes all of her, even her ugly parts. She unearths secrets about her family that will forever change her image of her mother. Through it all, she discovers just how deep her faith is. I found myself tearing up multiple times as I read this powerful novel about faith, friendship, and family. It is an honest exploration of living and loving in shadow of death, and having lived through similar struggles, I appreciated its honesty. I loved it. Highly recommended!
For Lucy, the summer before her Senior year keeps getting worse. Her mother's cancer is back with a vengeance. Her boyfriend put their relationship on "pause." She is so mad at God that she can't even pray. Now, her mom wants her to spend the summer not at their Bible camp, but at the camp across the lake that works with children struggling with tough issues. Lucy expects to hate working at the camp and find little in common with the counselors there, but instead, she discovers true friends who have lived through pain and loss and will walk that road with her hand in hand. She finds a boy who likes all of her, even her ugly parts. She unearths secrets about her family that will forever change her image of her mother. Through it all, she discovers just how deep her faith is. I found myself tearing up multiple times as I read this powerful novel about faith, friendship, and family. It is an honest exploration of living and loving in shadow of death, and having lived through similar struggles, I appreciated its honesty. I loved it. Highly recommended!
Orbiting Jupiter by Gary D. Schmidt
Jack only knows a few things about his new foster brother. He tried to kill a teacher. He served time in a juvenile detention facility that has left him mentally scarred, and at age 14, he has a daughter. What Jack doesn't realize is that Joseph loves his daughter and is desperate to find her and be a better father to her than his own father. Their friendship will take them both places they never expect as they search for Joseph's daughter.
Jack only knows a few things about his new foster brother. He tried to kill a teacher. He served time in a juvenile detention facility that has left him mentally scarred, and at age 14, he has a daughter. What Jack doesn't realize is that Joseph loves his daughter and is desperate to find her and be a better father to her than his own father. Their friendship will take them both places they never expect as they search for Joseph's daughter.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
This is one of the best books for teens ever written. Although published in the 90's, I first read this book a few years ago after a struggling reader read this book and LOVED it. I feel it is imperative to read any book that encourages nonreaders to read, so I picked up the book immediately. I am so glad that I did. This book may be small, but it contains language that will say with you. It is the letters of Charlie, an awkward 9th grader, as he attempts to fit in at school and deal with the depression that has haunted him most of his life. It is the story of the great friends you make in high school, the crazy things you do as you try to find yourself, and falling in love with the wrong people. Charlie becomes friends with some unconventional but kind Seniors who change his world forever. Chbosky's story is filled with lines you won't stop thinking about. One character tells Charlie, "We accept the love we think we deserve." Another time, where Charlie is enjoying a night with his friends, he says "We are infinite." It is a book that can be read and enjoyed over and over. I finally saw the movie, and for once, the movie is (almost) as good as the book, mostly because it was written and directed by Chbosky himself. The movie perfectly brings the characters to life and fills out the parts of the story you don't see when reading. I highly recommend everyone read this powerful tale.
This is one of the best books for teens ever written. Although published in the 90's, I first read this book a few years ago after a struggling reader read this book and LOVED it. I feel it is imperative to read any book that encourages nonreaders to read, so I picked up the book immediately. I am so glad that I did. This book may be small, but it contains language that will say with you. It is the letters of Charlie, an awkward 9th grader, as he attempts to fit in at school and deal with the depression that has haunted him most of his life. It is the story of the great friends you make in high school, the crazy things you do as you try to find yourself, and falling in love with the wrong people. Charlie becomes friends with some unconventional but kind Seniors who change his world forever. Chbosky's story is filled with lines you won't stop thinking about. One character tells Charlie, "We accept the love we think we deserve." Another time, where Charlie is enjoying a night with his friends, he says "We are infinite." It is a book that can be read and enjoyed over and over. I finally saw the movie, and for once, the movie is (almost) as good as the book, mostly because it was written and directed by Chbosky himself. The movie perfectly brings the characters to life and fills out the parts of the story you don't see when reading. I highly recommend everyone read this powerful tale.
The Piper's Son by Melina Marchetta
After Thomas' uncle is killed in a London bombing, he and his family fall apart. His dad disappears, his mom moves away, he breaks the heart of the girl he loves, he ignores his friends and he drops out of school. Finally, Thomas is awakening from his depression, and now he is struggling to put back together his life and family. To earn back the trust of his true love, he will have to do great things. To unite his family again, he will have to be honest and forgiving. In school, we learn about reading, writing and arithmetic, but no one teaches us how to deal with loss or how to heal. Thomas' journey will move you. Marchetta is a talented author, and this is a book to savor.
After Thomas' uncle is killed in a London bombing, he and his family fall apart. His dad disappears, his mom moves away, he breaks the heart of the girl he loves, he ignores his friends and he drops out of school. Finally, Thomas is awakening from his depression, and now he is struggling to put back together his life and family. To earn back the trust of his true love, he will have to do great things. To unite his family again, he will have to be honest and forgiving. In school, we learn about reading, writing and arithmetic, but no one teaches us how to deal with loss or how to heal. Thomas' journey will move you. Marchetta is a talented author, and this is a book to savor.
A Really Awesome Mess by Trish Cook and Brendan Halpin
Mix together an angry anorexic, a suicidal boy, a video-game addict, a disturbed young girl, a compulsive liar, and a mute and ask them to work together, and you should have a terrible mess. Brought together as an anger management group at the Heartland Ranch, a school for troubled teens, this tough and hurting group of teens will do crazy, dangerous and remarkable things to help each other earn new freedoms and a chance to move back to grow. Their amazing journey is at times laugh-out-loud funny, heartbreaking, and transformative. I finished reading this book with hope that things can be better. Life can bring difficult challenges, but with good friends, anything is possible.
Mix together an angry anorexic, a suicidal boy, a video-game addict, a disturbed young girl, a compulsive liar, and a mute and ask them to work together, and you should have a terrible mess. Brought together as an anger management group at the Heartland Ranch, a school for troubled teens, this tough and hurting group of teens will do crazy, dangerous and remarkable things to help each other earn new freedoms and a chance to move back to grow. Their amazing journey is at times laugh-out-loud funny, heartbreaking, and transformative. I finished reading this book with hope that things can be better. Life can bring difficult challenges, but with good friends, anything is possible.
Saving Red by Sonya Sones
While Molly is volunteering for school, she meets Red, a feisty homeless girl. Molly is sure Red needs to home, but Red doesn't want to talk about her family or going home. As Molly begins to realize that Red may not be as sane as she first appeared, will Molly be able to save her new friend?
While Molly is volunteering for school, she meets Red, a feisty homeless girl. Molly is sure Red needs to home, but Red doesn't want to talk about her family or going home. As Molly begins to realize that Red may not be as sane as she first appeared, will Molly be able to save her new friend?
The Serpent King by Jeff Zentner
High school can be on the nine rings of hell, especially when your dad is a snake-wielding pentecostal preacher whose misdeeds haved landed him in prison. Since Dill's testimony helped send his father to jail, life outside school isn't any better. The things that make Dill's life tolerable are the music he secretly creates and his best friends, Lydia and Travis. Although this trio has different interests, they are true friends that fight to protect and push each other. With his graduation looming, Dill is terrified of the future. He is afrarid of being stuck in his small town, he is afraid of sharing his music, and he is afraid of losing Lydia, who has secretly liked for years. During this pivotal year, Dill will find out just how strong he is as life move's forward in all of its great and terribleness. This moving story of the power of friendship to heal and transform you will leave your heart overflowing. Zentner's writing is lyrical, and his characters are honest and unique people you wish you could hang out with in the "real world." This is a stunningly beautiful debut novel. Highly recommended!
High school can be on the nine rings of hell, especially when your dad is a snake-wielding pentecostal preacher whose misdeeds haved landed him in prison. Since Dill's testimony helped send his father to jail, life outside school isn't any better. The things that make Dill's life tolerable are the music he secretly creates and his best friends, Lydia and Travis. Although this trio has different interests, they are true friends that fight to protect and push each other. With his graduation looming, Dill is terrified of the future. He is afrarid of being stuck in his small town, he is afraid of sharing his music, and he is afraid of losing Lydia, who has secretly liked for years. During this pivotal year, Dill will find out just how strong he is as life move's forward in all of its great and terribleness. This moving story of the power of friendship to heal and transform you will leave your heart overflowing. Zentner's writing is lyrical, and his characters are honest and unique people you wish you could hang out with in the "real world." This is a stunningly beautiful debut novel. Highly recommended!
Shine by Lauren Myracle
When Cat's best friend is brutally beaten in a hate crime, Cat decides she has had enough of hiding from the world. She starts asking around, determined to find out who hurt her best friend. Coming from a small town rife with poverty, drugs, secrets, and intolerance, Cat will face dangerous obstacles in her attempts to discover the truth. This novel starts in the dark before the dawn, all the characters, especially Cat, are lonely and cold. As the novel progresses, dawn comes, and Cat is finally able to leave her dark wounds and embrace the sunshine. This book will leave you filled with the wamth of the hopeful sun. It is a thoughtful and powerful tale that will stick with you.
When Cat's best friend is brutally beaten in a hate crime, Cat decides she has had enough of hiding from the world. She starts asking around, determined to find out who hurt her best friend. Coming from a small town rife with poverty, drugs, secrets, and intolerance, Cat will face dangerous obstacles in her attempts to discover the truth. This novel starts in the dark before the dawn, all the characters, especially Cat, are lonely and cold. As the novel progresses, dawn comes, and Cat is finally able to leave her dark wounds and embrace the sunshine. This book will leave you filled with the wamth of the hopeful sun. It is a thoughtful and powerful tale that will stick with you.
Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli
Simon is not the boy he pretends to be. He has a lot of friends, many who are girls. He has even dated a few girls, but he know he doesn't "like" girls. The only person who knows that Simon is different is Blue, a mysterious guy from Simon's school who he emails. With Blue, Simon can be honest about his fears and dreams because Blue is a pretender too. As Simon grows closer to Blue, he tries to determine who Blue is and when he should unveil his true self is to the world. To add to his crazy life, one of his classmates discover's Simon's secret. He promises not to tell as long as Simon helps him with a girl he likes. With pressure from every side, Simon's world is about to explode. This original story is honest and funny. Simon is a popular guy with lots of friends, and the reader will want to be another member of his gang. His honest struggles to handle being honest about his true self will endear any reader. This is a book everyone should read. Highly recommended!
Simon is not the boy he pretends to be. He has a lot of friends, many who are girls. He has even dated a few girls, but he know he doesn't "like" girls. The only person who knows that Simon is different is Blue, a mysterious guy from Simon's school who he emails. With Blue, Simon can be honest about his fears and dreams because Blue is a pretender too. As Simon grows closer to Blue, he tries to determine who Blue is and when he should unveil his true self is to the world. To add to his crazy life, one of his classmates discover's Simon's secret. He promises not to tell as long as Simon helps him with a girl he likes. With pressure from every side, Simon's world is about to explode. This original story is honest and funny. Simon is a popular guy with lots of friends, and the reader will want to be another member of his gang. His honest struggles to handle being honest about his true self will endear any reader. This is a book everyone should read. Highly recommended!
Speechless by Hannah Harringon
Chelsea is the girl who can never keep a secret. If you want to hear the best gossip, you go to her. However, when her latest bit of gossip leads to someone nearly dying, she decides she needs to get her mouth under control and stops talking. Not talking when everyone is saying terrible things about her is hard, but the longer she remains silent, the more she learns the power of silence and who her true friends are.
Chelsea is the girl who can never keep a secret. If you want to hear the best gossip, you go to her. However, when her latest bit of gossip leads to someone nearly dying, she decides she needs to get her mouth under control and stops talking. Not talking when everyone is saying terrible things about her is hard, but the longer she remains silent, the more she learns the power of silence and who her true friends are.
Split by Swati Avasthi
Whether we like it or not, we learn to be like our parents. Unfortunately for Jace, his father his abuser who taught him how to hit and hurt. When Jace finally fights back, his father kicks him out of the house, and he leaves with $17.00, his car, and a slip of paper his mother handed him containing the address of the brother he has not seen for years. As he goes to his brother for help, can they ever get their mother away? Can Jace and his brother unlearn the teachings their dad has taught them? This raw and emotional novel deals honestly about living with and surviving an abusive family.
Whether we like it or not, we learn to be like our parents. Unfortunately for Jace, his father his abuser who taught him how to hit and hurt. When Jace finally fights back, his father kicks him out of the house, and he leaves with $17.00, his car, and a slip of paper his mother handed him containing the address of the brother he has not seen for years. As he goes to his brother for help, can they ever get their mother away? Can Jace and his brother unlearn the teachings their dad has taught them? This raw and emotional novel deals honestly about living with and surviving an abusive family.
Take Me There by Carolee Dean
Dylan Dawson doesn't want to be like his dad, who has been on death row since he was baby. However, he has been in and out of juvenile detention and can barely read. Just when he is starting to get his life together with a decent job and a girl who believes in him, Dylan gets pulled in trouble again. At the start of the book, he is once again running from the law. Will Dylan be able to turn his life around or will he end up just like his dad? This novel made me aware of the disturbing correlation between illiteracy and incarceration. It is a frightening tale.
Dylan Dawson doesn't want to be like his dad, who has been on death row since he was baby. However, he has been in and out of juvenile detention and can barely read. Just when he is starting to get his life together with a decent job and a girl who believes in him, Dylan gets pulled in trouble again. At the start of the book, he is once again running from the law. Will Dylan be able to turn his life around or will he end up just like his dad? This novel made me aware of the disturbing correlation between illiteracy and incarceration. It is a frightening tale.
Tap Out by Eric Devine
Tony lives in a trailer park. His mom has a series of boyfriends that are more worthless than the next. He is sure his life is going nowhere until his best friend convinces him to join a mixed martial arts studio, and finally, Tony finds something he is really good at. Now he has a fighting chance to make it. However, trouble is brewing that may pull him down al over again. This is a raw and gritty read that will leave you in a world of gray.
Tony lives in a trailer park. His mom has a series of boyfriends that are more worthless than the next. He is sure his life is going nowhere until his best friend convinces him to join a mixed martial arts studio, and finally, Tony finds something he is really good at. Now he has a fighting chance to make it. However, trouble is brewing that may pull him down al over again. This is a raw and gritty read that will leave you in a world of gray.
Tease by Amanda Macial
Emma Putnam is a slut! Emma Putnam has stolen my boyfriend. Emma Putnam has killed herself. Emma Putnam has ruined my life. Sarah Wharton hates Emma Putnam, especially since everyone has started blaming Sarah and her friends for Emma's death. They are be criminally charged for bullying and harassment that led to Emma' suicide. Sarah doesn't understand why she is being blamed for Emma's death. She didn't make Emma kill herself. It was just a bit of teasing, and Emma took everything too personally. Read this haunting novel to watch how the perpetrator deal with the aftermath of taking mean to a whole new level. As you read, you can are horrified of and for Sarah and will hold your breath waiting to see if she ever takes responsibility for her actions. This book is better than Thirteen Reasons Why. I think it should be required reading for all high school students to make them rethink how much their words and actions affect others.
Emma Putnam is a slut! Emma Putnam has stolen my boyfriend. Emma Putnam has killed herself. Emma Putnam has ruined my life. Sarah Wharton hates Emma Putnam, especially since everyone has started blaming Sarah and her friends for Emma's death. They are be criminally charged for bullying and harassment that led to Emma' suicide. Sarah doesn't understand why she is being blamed for Emma's death. She didn't make Emma kill herself. It was just a bit of teasing, and Emma took everything too personally. Read this haunting novel to watch how the perpetrator deal with the aftermath of taking mean to a whole new level. As you read, you can are horrified of and for Sarah and will hold your breath waiting to see if she ever takes responsibility for her actions. This book is better than Thirteen Reasons Why. I think it should be required reading for all high school students to make them rethink how much their words and actions affect others.
Things Change by Patrick Jones
JoAnn has spent her life being the perfect student and daughter. Now, she wants to be the perfect girlfriend to Paul. Only, she finds out that being a good girlfriend is a lot harder than being a good student. She seems to do everything wrong, and Paul always gets mad at her. Every time he promises that he won't hurt her again, but the bruises on her body grow. What do you do when the person you love is no good for you?
JoAnn has spent her life being the perfect student and daughter. Now, she wants to be the perfect girlfriend to Paul. Only, she finds out that being a good girlfriend is a lot harder than being a good student. She seems to do everything wrong, and Paul always gets mad at her. Every time he promises that he won't hurt her again, but the bruises on her body grow. What do you do when the person you love is no good for you?
Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
Clay comes home to find someone has sent him a box of cassette tapes. He locates a tape play and is chilled by what he hears when puts in the first tape. "Hello, boys and girls. Hannah Baker here. Live and in stereo. I don't believe it. No return engagements. No encore. And this time, absolutely no requests. No, I can't believe it. Hannah Baker killed herself. I hope you're ready, because I'm about to tell you the story of my life. More specifically, why my life ended. And if you're listening to these tapes, you're one of the reasons why." Clay is shocked. He has no idea why Hannah would blame him for her death. In fact, he always had a secret crush on her. Because of this, Clay feel compels to listen to Hannah's explanation for her suicide. This is the most popular book that deals with teen suicide, and its story will haunt you.
Clay comes home to find someone has sent him a box of cassette tapes. He locates a tape play and is chilled by what he hears when puts in the first tape. "Hello, boys and girls. Hannah Baker here. Live and in stereo. I don't believe it. No return engagements. No encore. And this time, absolutely no requests. No, I can't believe it. Hannah Baker killed herself. I hope you're ready, because I'm about to tell you the story of my life. More specifically, why my life ended. And if you're listening to these tapes, you're one of the reasons why." Clay is shocked. He has no idea why Hannah would blame him for her death. In fact, he always had a secret crush on her. Because of this, Clay feel compels to listen to Hannah's explanation for her suicide. This is the most popular book that deals with teen suicide, and its story will haunt you.
Torn Away by Jennifer Brown
Each year we practice our tornado drills. No one takes it too seriously even though less than 20 years ago nearby Spencer, SD, was nearly wiped out by tornadoes. Jersey lives in Elizabeth, Missouri, where tornadoes are more common, and Jersey is used to the drill. However, when these tornado sirens go off, a tornado hits. Jersey, home alone, cowers in the basement as a tornado takes off with her home, family, and life. Torn away from all she holds dear, Jersey must live with strangers as she fights not to get blown away by the tornado that took so much from her. This emotional tale of survival from a life-shattering natural disaster is moving. Your heart will break with Jersey as she is eaten up with guilt about her last words to the people she loved most in the world. The words she can never take back or change. It makes you want to tell you want to stop reading and grab your family in a hug and tell them how much you treasure them. I think the author's words were so raw and honest because she spoke in Joplin, Missouri, weeks after an EF-5 tornado killed 150 people and leveled the town. I was swept into Jersey's story and couldn't put this book down.
Each year we practice our tornado drills. No one takes it too seriously even though less than 20 years ago nearby Spencer, SD, was nearly wiped out by tornadoes. Jersey lives in Elizabeth, Missouri, where tornadoes are more common, and Jersey is used to the drill. However, when these tornado sirens go off, a tornado hits. Jersey, home alone, cowers in the basement as a tornado takes off with her home, family, and life. Torn away from all she holds dear, Jersey must live with strangers as she fights not to get blown away by the tornado that took so much from her. This emotional tale of survival from a life-shattering natural disaster is moving. Your heart will break with Jersey as she is eaten up with guilt about her last words to the people she loved most in the world. The words she can never take back or change. It makes you want to tell you want to stop reading and grab your family in a hug and tell them how much you treasure them. I think the author's words were so raw and honest because she spoke in Joplin, Missouri, weeks after an EF-5 tornado killed 150 people and leveled the town. I was swept into Jersey's story and couldn't put this book down.
Trafficked by Kim Purcell
Hannah is a 17-year-old Moldovan girl who believes she is coming the states to earn lots of money working as a nanny while also attending school. Unfortunately, she is one of thousands of girls each year who is awaiting a vastly different fate after arriving states. Forced to sleep in the garage, she is brutally treated by her captors. She has to clean the house and care for kids 24-7, and she is not allowed to leave the house alone. School is totally out of the question, and despite promises of being paid, no money has come her way. Hannah realizes she has been trafficked, but because she knows no one, how can she escape? A former student of mine is Moldovan, and she shared what a huge problem this is for girls in her country. This book is perfect for bringing to life the issue of human trafficking.
Hannah is a 17-year-old Moldovan girl who believes she is coming the states to earn lots of money working as a nanny while also attending school. Unfortunately, she is one of thousands of girls each year who is awaiting a vastly different fate after arriving states. Forced to sleep in the garage, she is brutally treated by her captors. She has to clean the house and care for kids 24-7, and she is not allowed to leave the house alone. School is totally out of the question, and despite promises of being paid, no money has come her way. Hannah realizes she has been trafficked, but because she knows no one, how can she escape? A former student of mine is Moldovan, and she shared what a huge problem this is for girls in her country. This book is perfect for bringing to life the issue of human trafficking.
Tweaked by Katherine Holubitsky
Gordie's brother is an addict. For much of his life, his family's life has revolved around his brother: trying to get him help, dealing with him stealing money, and dealing with him in trouble. Finally, Gordie's parents have kicked his brother out of the house, and Gordie hopes they can be a normal family again. Then his brother does something unthinkable, and Gordie's family must clean up his mess once again. The fast and honest story about how abusers not only ruin their lives but also the lives of everyone around them will keep you reading.
Gordie's brother is an addict. For much of his life, his family's life has revolved around his brother: trying to get him help, dealing with him stealing money, and dealing with him in trouble. Finally, Gordie's parents have kicked his brother out of the house, and Gordie hopes they can be a normal family again. Then his brother does something unthinkable, and Gordie's family must clean up his mess once again. The fast and honest story about how abusers not only ruin their lives but also the lives of everyone around them will keep you reading.
Twisted by Laurie Halse Anderson
Tyler is one of those students who fades in the background. He does his work, he is quiet in class, and he does not get in trouble. When he gets caught graffiting the school, all eyes are suddenly on him. He comes back to school with a new confidence, physique, and popularity. Catching the interest of the girl has always liked is great, but getting special attention from the meathead who does not want him to exist is not so great. Tyler must figure out how to navigate these as a man. This is Anderson at her best.
Tyler is one of those students who fades in the background. He does his work, he is quiet in class, and he does not get in trouble. When he gets caught graffiting the school, all eyes are suddenly on him. He comes back to school with a new confidence, physique, and popularity. Catching the interest of the girl has always liked is great, but getting special attention from the meathead who does not want him to exist is not so great. Tyler must figure out how to navigate these as a man. This is Anderson at her best.
Violent Ends by various authors
This novel is one of the most powerful stories about a school shooting, even though not one story is told of the actual crime. Instead, twelve different authors tell the story of how a quiet and kind boy who liked music and had friends ends up bringing a gun to school and opening fire. Told from various perspectives and time periods, you will be left stunned by how a killer is created.
This novel is one of the most powerful stories about a school shooting, even though not one story is told of the actual crime. Instead, twelve different authors tell the story of how a quiet and kind boy who liked music and had friends ends up bringing a gun to school and opening fire. Told from various perspectives and time periods, you will be left stunned by how a killer is created.
The Way I Used to Be by Amber Smith
At the start of high school, Eden was a good girl who played in the band and happily spent time with her family, but everything changed for her the night her brother's best friend raped her in her own house. Though internally she is broken, the next morning her mother doesn't realize anything is wrong with her. In shock and afraid of the threats of her attacker, Eden does not tell anyone what happened. As she continues through high school, this secret poisons her life, making her do terrible things to bury the pain. By Senior year, Eden is recognizably broken. Will she ever realize that the only way to heal and protect other girls is to tell her terrible secret. This is a terrifying look into how a girl can be terribly transformed by keeping silent about being raped. The message is of this book is that you should always, always tell someone what happened or the secret, instead of the act, will destroy you.
At the start of high school, Eden was a good girl who played in the band and happily spent time with her family, but everything changed for her the night her brother's best friend raped her in her own house. Though internally she is broken, the next morning her mother doesn't realize anything is wrong with her. In shock and afraid of the threats of her attacker, Eden does not tell anyone what happened. As she continues through high school, this secret poisons her life, making her do terrible things to bury the pain. By Senior year, Eden is recognizably broken. Will she ever realize that the only way to heal and protect other girls is to tell her terrible secret. This is a terrifying look into how a girl can be terribly transformed by keeping silent about being raped. The message is of this book is that you should always, always tell someone what happened or the secret, instead of the act, will destroy you.
We Are the Ants by Shaun David Hutichnson
Henry Denton has been taken by aliens for years. On his last visit, they told him that the earth was going to be destroyed. The only thing that could stop it is him. Henry has 144 days to decide whether or not the earth is worth saving. Henry knows he should want to save the earth, but lately, life has given him few reasons to do so. Struggling to move forward after his boyfriend committed suicide and deal with the challenges of his impoverished family have left Henry with little hope. But life has 144 days to change his mind.
Henry Denton has been taken by aliens for years. On his last visit, they told him that the earth was going to be destroyed. The only thing that could stop it is him. Henry has 144 days to decide whether or not the earth is worth saving. Henry knows he should want to save the earth, but lately, life has given him few reasons to do so. Struggling to move forward after his boyfriend committed suicide and deal with the challenges of his impoverished family have left Henry with little hope. But life has 144 days to change his mind.
What Happens Next by Colleen Clayton
While on a school trip, Sid meets an older, handsome guy. Usually, Sid's friends get all the attention from guys, so when he invites her to a party, she goes even though none of her friends can come. The next morning, she wakes up realizing that she does not know what exactly happened last night, but she is sure she did not agree to it. When she finally makes it back to the hotel, she is in such big trouble that she does not know how to also tell them that something bad happened to her. As she goes back to school, she is haunted by what has happened and drops out of her previous life. The only bright spot is Corey, a boy who is so much more than his nickname "Stoner." I loved this heartfelt tale of how to move on after bad things happen.
While on a school trip, Sid meets an older, handsome guy. Usually, Sid's friends get all the attention from guys, so when he invites her to a party, she goes even though none of her friends can come. The next morning, she wakes up realizing that she does not know what exactly happened last night, but she is sure she did not agree to it. When she finally makes it back to the hotel, she is in such big trouble that she does not know how to also tell them that something bad happened to her. As she goes back to school, she is haunted by what has happened and drops out of her previous life. The only bright spot is Corey, a boy who is so much more than his nickname "Stoner." I loved this heartfelt tale of how to move on after bad things happen.
What We Saw by Aaron Hartzler
Kate can't quire remember what happened at the party last night. She knows her best friend and love interest Ben took her home safely, but everything else is fuzzy. On Monday, a picture of Stacey, a girl Kate was drinking with at the party, has been circulating online. The next day, Stacey accuses four boys of raping her at the party. Now Kate is desperate to find out happened. She can't believe these boys would do something so terrible, but she can't believe Stacey would make such an accusation if it was not true. Everyone wants her to let it go, but Kate is compelled to fin out the truth, even it destroys her. Based off of true events, this book will shake you up and spit you out.
Kate can't quire remember what happened at the party last night. She knows her best friend and love interest Ben took her home safely, but everything else is fuzzy. On Monday, a picture of Stacey, a girl Kate was drinking with at the party, has been circulating online. The next day, Stacey accuses four boys of raping her at the party. Now Kate is desperate to find out happened. She can't believe these boys would do something so terrible, but she can't believe Stacey would make such an accusation if it was not true. Everyone wants her to let it go, but Kate is compelled to fin out the truth, even it destroys her. Based off of true events, this book will shake you up and spit you out.
When We Collided by Emery Lord
Bipolar. Manic depressive. These are words to describe Vivi, but she doesn't want these words to define her. Escaping to a beach town to recover from the effects of her latest, losing fight with her manic depression, Vivi vows to live life to the fullest, even if that means she has to stop taking the medication that makes her head muddy. It also means that she doesn't hesitate to fall for the handsome Jonah, who is still reeling from the effects of his father's death on his family. As these two broken spirits collide, they bring each other to highest heights and the deepest lows. For both of them, this summer will change their lives forever. Like Vivi and Jonah could not stop themselves from falling in love, I could not stop myself from falling for this beautifully written book. Vivi is alternatively bursting with vivacity and joy or falling apart from sadness. Jonah's fight to save his family, himself, and Vivi is poignant and heartbreaking. Highly recommended!
Bipolar. Manic depressive. These are words to describe Vivi, but she doesn't want these words to define her. Escaping to a beach town to recover from the effects of her latest, losing fight with her manic depression, Vivi vows to live life to the fullest, even if that means she has to stop taking the medication that makes her head muddy. It also means that she doesn't hesitate to fall for the handsome Jonah, who is still reeling from the effects of his father's death on his family. As these two broken spirits collide, they bring each other to highest heights and the deepest lows. For both of them, this summer will change their lives forever. Like Vivi and Jonah could not stop themselves from falling in love, I could not stop myself from falling for this beautifully written book. Vivi is alternatively bursting with vivacity and joy or falling apart from sadness. Jonah's fight to save his family, himself, and Vivi is poignant and heartbreaking. Highly recommended!
Wrecked by Maria Padian
A girl claims she was raped at a frat party. A boy claims their interactions were "consensual." This story has been in the news over and over again. Who is telling the truth? Told from the perspectives of two college students who are helping to find out the truth of the accusation, this is a fascinating look into the search for the truth when such a serious accusation arises. Haley knows that something terrible happened to her roommate, and Richard knows the accused bragged about bagging a freshman girl. However, what is the truth?
A girl claims she was raped at a frat party. A boy claims their interactions were "consensual." This story has been in the news over and over again. Who is telling the truth? Told from the perspectives of two college students who are helping to find out the truth of the accusation, this is a fascinating look into the search for the truth when such a serious accusation arises. Haley knows that something terrible happened to her roommate, and Richard knows the accused bragged about bagging a freshman girl. However, what is the truth?