How to Save a Life by Sara Zarr (recommended by Nadia, age 13)
I recommend this book because I believe that it is one of the best books I’ve ever read. It combines sadness with happiness and new beginnings. It describes the life of two girls, Jill and Mandy, in the most heart wrenching way. The girls face hard decisions, and struggle through the challenges life throws at them while finding peace and happiness in their hearts. I will admit without shame that I cried when I read it. The characterization is so well developed that I felt like I have known the people for ages. The author shares life lessons and shows readers that love, friendship, and hope can save a life.
The False Prince by Jennifer Nielson (recommended by Kiana, age 10)
The False Prince is the perfect combination of mystery, action, and drama. It’s the type of book that keeps you reading and at the edge of your seat.
Jacky Faber Adventures by L.A. Meyer (recommended by Heather, spouse)
These are the adventures of a girl who sneaks onto a ship disguised as a boy. They are set in the late 18th century. While Jacky is born in London, her adventures soon take her to colonial Boston. She is a strong female heroine and the books are fun to read! The first in the series is called Bloody Jack: Being An Account of the Curious Adventures of Mary “Jacky” Faber, Ship’s Boy.
Percy Jackson: Lightening Thief by Rick Riordin (recommended byJared, age 12)
The Lightning Thief is a fantasy-adventure novel based on Greek mythology, the first young adult novel written by Rick Riordan. It is the first novel in the Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, which charts the adventures of modern-day twelve-year-old Percy Jackson as he discovers he is a demigod, the son of a mortal woman and the Greek god Poseidon. Percy and his friends Annabeth Chase and Grover Underwood go on a quest to prevent a war between the gods Zeus, Poseidon, and Hades.