Magical fantasy realms are not to everybody's tastes. Some people want serious literature about serious topics: death and dying and forbidden romance and real world issues. Unfortunately, readers often have to wade through a lot of trashy fiction in order to find the good stuff. These Teens' Top Ten nominees are great for those readers who don't like a lot of fluff in their books. Keep in mind that some topics are better suited for mature readers.
The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson
Shy and quiet Lennie has always lived in the shadow of her outgoing older sister, Bailey. When Bailey dies unexpectedly, Lennie struggles with her grief as well as with the attention her family’s tragedy brings. Meanwhile, Lennie must now decide between two boys in her life: Toby, who was Bailey’s boyfriend, understands Lennie’s grief in a way that other people can’t, but Joe, the new boy in town, helps Lennie forget her grief and live her own life when she’s with him.
Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
Spoiled rich girl Samantha dies in a car accident, never knowing how her own behavior affects the people around her, but then she is forced to relive the last day of her life every day for seven days. As she repeatedly moves through her last day, she comes to understand how her choices impact others and exactly what she stands to lose by her death.
I Am J by Cris Beam
J thinks of himself as a boy but is biologically a girl. Family and friends believe this is a phase he will outgrow, but as J becomes a teenager he only grows more uncomfortable with his feminine body. When his loved ones don’t understand his request to begin testosterone treatments, he runs away to enroll in a school for gay and transgender teens. Will he find the love and acceptance he seeks there?
All of these titles and more are available at the Andover Public Library. If you enjoy these titles, don’t forget to access the Teens’ Top Ten page and vote for your favorites. Voting is open until September 16th.
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