Young Adult

Can’t believe it took me so long to feature this classic story of boy and a girl stripped and marooned on a small island for the night. They are the “goats.” The kids at camp think it’s a funny, harmless tradition. But the goats don’t see it that way. Instead of trying to get back to camp, they decide to call home. But no one can come and get them, so they’re on their own. As they wander through a small town trying to find clothing, food, and shelter, they find they rather like life on their own. If their parents ever do show up to rescue them, the boy and the girl might be long gone…

A great read that is both funny and sweet. When high school freshman David Miller accidentally makes a $2,000 charge on his mother’s credit card, he turns to his talent for competitive eating to make up the sum. What touches readers, though, is David’s challenges as a teenager and living with a special needs brother.

Upper elementary students can probably appreciate this book, but I find it is a bigger hit with middle schoolers. Norah is a seventh grader who just happens to have survived cancer. What I like about this book is that it’s not about cancer; it’s about moving on. Great discussion starter for overcoming adversity.

Important book EVERYONE should read about the value of taking setbacks and letting them make you stronger. I think this book should be in every school.

The Hamilton star offers readers a look into his own vulnerabilities. Eloquently written and an easy, inspirational read.

I cannot believe I have failed to feature this Classic up until this point. This was one of the books I actually liked to read when I was a kid. One of the greatest science fiction stories I’ve ever read.

Alfred Brooks is scared. He's a high school dropout and his grocery store job is leading nowhere. His best friend is sinking further and further into drug addiction. Some street kids are after him for something he didn't even do. So Alfred begins going to Donatelli's Gym, a boxing club in Harlem that has trained champions. There he learns it's the effort, not the win, that makes the man - that last desperate struggle to get back on your feet when you thought you were down for the count.

Do yourself a favor and purchase every book Kiernan has written. It’ll make you proud to be an American. This terrific book, co-written with D’Agnese, chronicles what happened to the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence. Spoiler alert: a lot of bad stuff. Good reminder for Americans who are divided over trivial things to remember those who gave their lives, liberties and happiness for us. We owe them a lot.

Chilling look inside the thoughts of someone pushed to the brink.

I must confess that I picked this book up because of its front cover endorsement, and it was right on target. Award-winning author Matt de la Peña (see his book below) writes: “(This book) will break your heart and then slowly put it back together in a new and profound way. You will not forget this book.”

Terrifying account of the birth of one of America’s first homemade terrorist groups, the Ku Klux Klan. Evolving from a small, mischievous social club into a powerful, destructive organization, this book is a solemn reminder of the importance of unifying our country over spreading hate.

Junger is simply a magnificently gifted writer. This book is probably more appropriately labeled an Adult-level book, but I think young adults need to be exposed to his great writing, as well as this intriguing subject matter.

For more than two decades, legendary trainer Tim Grover has taken the great athletes like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Dwayne Wade and dozens more – and made them greater. This is a great book for teens because Grover reveals what it takes to get those results (hint: sitting around playing X-Box doesn’t count for much).

Booklist says: Easy to read and written in a conversational style, Ottaviano's advice is all about loving yourself, seeing how incredible those around you really are, and identifying true friendships...it's hard not to cheer her fight to get girls to see what a good friendship looks like and assure them that they do have something to offer. A good choice for teens looking for some inspiration and guidance.

Robertson, bestselling author and star of Dancing with the Stars, has an important message for her generation: you don’t have to be held back by fear, anxiety, or loneliness anymore. This book takes readers through her thrilling personal journey toward power, passion and purpose.