Faceless by Alyssa Sheinmel

Maisie Winters’ life changes forever one summer morning before senior year. While out for a run, Maisie suffers near-fatal injuries when a strike of lightning causes an electrical fire that devours half of her face. Weeks later, Maisie wakes up from a medically induced coma and is told she is lucky to be alive--even though her nose, cheeks, and chin are gone, and she feels like a freak. Then Maisie becomes the recipient of a new face from an anonymous donor. Again, she’s told how lucky she is to have this opportunity. But all Maisie can think about is her old life and who she used to be. Who is this Maisie 2.0? How can she be the same girl who won track medals, earned straight-A grades, and was in love with her devoted boyfriend, when everything that matters has changed? This emotionally charged story explores how one girl bravely works through her loss and discovers who she is meant to become. I recommend it to readers who like books about survival, change, family issues, relationships, and overcoming challenges. Maisie’s story will stick with readers long after the last page, and remind us all of just how lucky we are.

Burn Baby Burn by Meg Medina

This amazing novel packs a punch--there is so much that makes it both intriguing and high interest, so it’s ideal for teens who have not yet tried or enjoyed historical fiction. Set in 1977 New York City, the author vividly and realistically recreates the setting--the city and time period almost feel like major characters in the story.

Although the city is terrorized by a series of murders, (eventually revealed as the true Son of Sam murders), main character Nora has additional problems on her mind. Her older brother Hector is becoming more and more a stranger--staying out all night, spending time with dangerous people, and getting into drugs. Nora’s single mother pushes her to watch out for Hector and keep him in line--but how, when his temper becomes more explosive and unpredictable everyday? Nora is working and saving money so that she can move out on her own and escape her family’s problems for good. But will her dreams go up in flames during one crazy summer? I recommend this book to readers who like reading about family issues, urban fiction, suspense, and relationships. This book, its characters, and sense of place are unforgettable--I could not get my nose out of it until I turned the last page and I still think about it.

Saving Red by Sonya Sones

Although this story is great for any time of the year, it is particularly perfect for the holiday season. Right before winter break, Molly has “volunteered” to help with the annual Santa Monica homeless count to fulfill her school’s required community service hours. What Molly doesn’t expect is Red, a homeless girl who seems so spirited and full of life that Molly becomes determined to reunite Red with her family. Molly makes it her mission to bring Red home by Christmas. Told in exquisite descriptive verse, this captivating tale tells the story of two girls who have both been touched by mental health issues. The closer Molly gets to Red, the more complex her Christmas mission becomes, and the more Molly learns about herself. I recommend this book to readers who have experienced mental health issues, or who want to learn more about it, as well as readers who like reading stories about friendship and family issues. For thematic book talks, teachers could pair this book with No Place by Todd Strasser (realities of homelessness).

Illegal by Bettina Restrepo

We need more books for adolescents about the experience of young illegal immigrants living in the United States, and the struggles they face. After my students suggested La Linea by Ann Jaramillo, I've been looking for similar books. I was very hopeful when I picked up Restrepo's book. While some parts of it will be relatable and compelling for certain students, I thought it was slightly unrealistic and did not delve into the true struggles that many immigrant youth face. The main character, Nora, and her mother seem to "luck out" and fare better than I expect most people do. Illegal is worth reading, but I had hoped for more. I'd recommend it to a younger middle school audience, or to more idealistic, naive readers since other students might see right through the hopeful, glossy perspective this book takes on a serious, complex topic. 

Trouble is a Friend of Mine by Stephanie Tromly

I love the opening lines of this book: Of course I didn't like Digby when I first met him. No one does. This book made me laugh out loud multiple times--which is an impressive feat all in itself for a middle school teacher contending with spring fever and apathy. The playful wit and banter of both main characters, Zoe and Digby, is thoroughly enjoyable and carries the reader along into the heart of the story. Digby involves Zoe in his investigation of a local missing teen, Marina Miller. Before Zoe knows it, she's on "Planet Digby" and there's no return. I adored this book and feel that it has something for all readers--sharp wit, adventure, mystery, and humor. I would recommend this book to my 7th and 8th graders; it's great for kids who already understand and enjoy sarcasm and quirky characters. Originally, I thought the story left readers with at least one major loose end, but then I found out there is another book in the works. Can. Not. Wait. 

I'll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson

Artists and those who appreciate art will fall in love with this book--the author's description and use of metaphor is nothing short of stunning. Her talent makes me both appreciative and extremely envious. The book tells the story of twins Jude and Noah, who are so close when the story opens that they are known as JudeandNoah. However, in the span of three years, tragedy and misunderstanding build an unfathomable wall between the two siblings. The story skillfully alternates point of view and time periods between Jude and Noah, and the years when they are 13 and 16 years old. I recommend this book to sophisticated readers who have knowledge or appreciation of art/artists, and who enjoy reading about relationships--both within a family and with the people in life whom we are destined to meet, and as a result, feel like family. 

How to Save a Life by Sara Zarr

Jill is a teenage girl who is grieving the death of her dad. He was the parent who really understood her—her “mirror” as she calls him. Now Jill and her mom are trying to move forward without the person they love most. And then Jill’s mom drops a bombshell on her: she’s decided to adopt a baby. 

Mandy is a pregnant teen who is hoping to start a new life for herself and her unborn baby. Mandy wants to give her baby the life and home that she’s always dreamed of, but she doesn’t know how to make it happen. When Mandy connects with Jill’s mom, Robin, through an open adoption website, it seems like the perfect solution. But everything gets complicated when Mandy moves in with Jill and Robin during the last few weeks of her pregnancy, and Mandy’s secrets from the past are discovered. I recommend this book to readers who like to read about family issues, death/grieving, teen pregnancy, and relationships. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars—it grabbed my heart and wouldn’t let go. The characters are both realistic and likable; I had to know what would happen to Mandy and Jill. 

Hidden by Helen Frost

The lives of two 8-year-old girls, Wren and Darra, change forever when Darra's father steals a minivan and does not realize that Wren is hiding inside. Written in verse, this book moves quickly and takes the reader along as Wren figures out how to escape the minivan inside Darra's locked garage without being discovered. Years later, the two girls meet again by chance at a summer camp. Find out what happens when Wren and Darra confront each other about their shared past. I recommend this book to readers who like suspense, family drama, and books in verse; readers who liked Girl, Stolen, will also enjoy this similar but different story. I give it 5 out of 5 stars!

Sisters by Raina Telgemeier

The latest by Raina Telgemeier does not disappoint! Based on the true story of the author's relationship with her little sister, this graphic novel is both humorous and heart-felt. During a family road trip from California to Colorado, Raina learns about her relationship with her little sister, her family, and herself. I also liked the book's design and how the pages were yellow(ed) to indicate a flashback. I strongly recommend this book to readers who enjoyed Smile and Drama, the author's other titles; to any readers who like graphic novels; and to readers who can relate to the ups and downs of having a brother or sister. I give this book 5 out of 5 stars!

Notes From the Midnight Driver by Jordan Sonnenblick

While not my favorite Sonnenblick book (which would be Drums, Girls & Dangerous Pie), this was still a solid read. After Alex Gregory drove a car without a license (while drunk) and decapitated a lawn gnome, he is required to work community service with senior citizen and resident grouch Solomon Lewis. In the beginning of the book, Alex is self-centered and immature. In fact, I thought his character was annoying. Yet, as the book continued, I started to like Alex more and more. I loved Solomon, a character who was inspired by the author's grandfather. The story takes hilarious (and somewhat predictable) turns as crusty old Solomon and Alex get to know each other. 
I recommend this to readers who can relate to family issues, divorce, and making mistakes, as well as readers who like music--playing electric guitar in particular. It would strongly appeal to middle school boys with an interest in music. I give this book 3.5 out of 5 stars!

Just Like the Movies by Kelly Fiore

This book is the perfect read for girls who love movies--and romantic comedies in particular. Unlikely friends Marijke Monti and Lily Spencer team up with a crazy scheme: to reinact epic movie moments to win over their crushes. I loved all of the movie references in this book, but I'm not sure if middle school girls still watch some of the movies mentioned, such as Sixteen Candles, Say Anything, and Titanic. The book lightly addresses family issues and searching for personal identity.  Normally, I would find the ending of this book unrealistic and too perfect, but like most romantic comedies, I know what I'm getting into and a happy ending is completely satisfying. I recommend this to high school and some middle school readers who like romantic movies. I give this book 3.5 out of 5 stars!

Split by Swati Avasthi

This book takes the reader on a train wreck of emotions, but you simply cannot stop reading. The main character, Jace, has not seen his older brother Christian since he left their abusive home years ago. But after Jace is kicked out by his dad, he drives from Chicago to Albuquerque and shows up on Christian's doorstep--beaten up and carrying a horrible secret. From the moment Jace arrives in Albuquerque to the very end, this plot hums along and sweeps the reader with it. The characters are well-developed, the plot is masterfully constructed, and despite its difficult topic, this is a beautiful book.

I recommend this book to mature readers who can handle reading about family violence and abuse, but who also like reading about relationships and second chances. It was an emotional read, but I definitely give it 5 out of 5 stars!

Shelter by Harlan Coben

If you like mystery and fast-paced action, you will love this book. Meet Mickey Bolitar--his dad just died, his mom is in rehab, and he's stuck living with his uncle Myron. Mickey doesn't have much to be happy about--until he meets his girlfriend Ashley at school orientation. Ashley is the bright spot in Mickey's days, until she abruptly disappears. Now Mickey will stop at nothing to find Ashley--and to figure out why crazy old Bat Lady said that his dad is still alive....

I recommend this book to readers who like mystery, action, and a small bit of romance. I really liked it, but I'm stingy with 5 star ratings. 4 out of 5 stars!