Brother, I'm Dying by Edwidge Danticat

This memoir by the bestselling Haitian author Danticat provides a poignant look at her family and upbringing, particularly of the relationships between her, her Uncle Joseph who raised her for many years while her parents were in the United States, and her father. It also illustrates and makes interesting some of the conflict in Haiti throughout her life and shows how people were affected in their daily lives. Danticat has always written lovingly but realistically of Haiti and its people and history, and this story is especially personal, winning the National Book Critics Circle Award for Autobiography in 2007.

The Eternal Smile: three stories by Gene Luen Yang and Derek Kirk Kim

These three slightly connected but very different stories are humorously entertaining. The first, Duncan's Kingdom, follows classic fairy tale/fantasy form but with a surprising bonus. The second, Gran'pa Greenbax and the Eternal Smile, appeals as a mix between Scrooge McDuck and The Truman Show. The third, my favorite, titled Urgent Request, is a charming tale of a meek woman who finally, and surprisingly, grows a spine when the reader is all set to be disappointed in her. The three stories have very different voices and styles, and so are worthwhile reading in order to enjoy the differences.

Volunteer vacations across America: Immersion travel USA by Sheryl Kane

I picked this book up randomly at the library even though I'm certainly not planning any trips any time soon, but I wanted to see what kind of ideas it would provide. It was surprisingly informative. There was thorough information for each opportunity and organization, and the author included feedback from volunteers, even when negative. The best part is that many types of opportunities were included, whether short or long term, and for any type of experience, whether it be wildlife, environment, human rights and so on. Even without having any concrete plans for travel, the book is inspiring and worth at least skimming.

The Carbon Diaries 2015 by Saci Lloyd

Initially reminiscent of Life as we knew it even though the disaster situation is not identical, The Carbon Diaries 2015 follows a year in the life of British teenager Laura Brown as the entire country is put on carbon rationing. I ended up liking this better actually, as there is more character development and the narrator has charming elements of the Georgia Nicholson voice. There were times when the book teetered on the edge of didacticism but it was clear that the author was trying not to go down that road. Overall, it was enjoyable and was a good example of what could happen to the earth if we don't change our daily behavior and habits immediately.

Fade to Black by Alex Flinn

Although not as perfect an example of the unreliable narrator as Inexcusable, Fade to Black nevertheless raises lots of questions. With an HIV positive main character, this book forces readers to think about their perception of people living with the disease. For example, Alex's family is insistent on making it clear that he got it from a blood transfusion, because that somehow makes it seem less his fault than if he got it another way. I think this is a very good choice for a lot of our students here in Vermont who often aren't exposed to people unlike themselves. Plus, Flinn's writing is always enjoyable, and while the content might be challenging, she knows how to draw in the reluctant readers.

DopeSick by Walter Dean Myers

A graphic portrayal of the way the decisions we make affect our lives, DopeSick illustrates how we are all responsible for our own actions, and it's never too late to change the direction of our lives.

Let it snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson, and Lauren Myracle

Charming novellas written by three of the best young adult authors. Each story is a winter romance in and of itself, but they also intertwine, having characters and locations in common.

Just After Sunset by Stephen King

The master's latest short story collection. Brilliant as ever.

Impossible by Nancy Werlin

Fantasy combined with realism, Impossible illustrates a legend behind the classic song Scarborough Fair. Although I found it a bit heavy, readers who enjoy fantastical elements in their realism or fairy tale retellings should find something to like in Impossible.

The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan

Zombies! Female protagonist! Romance! Adventure! Zombies! What more needs to be said?

The disreputable history of Frankie Landau-Banks: a novel by E. Lockhart

At times charming, other times too smart for her own good, Frankie Landau-Banks tries to find her place in the world, or at least in the small corner of the world that is her prestigious New England boarding school. The best thing about Frankie's character is her fallibility. Although she wants to do what's right, she never comes across as annoyingly self- righteous, yet neither is she altruistic or looking out for the common good. While she has an admirable and concrete purpose for her actions, it's clear that she doesn't always know how to solve her problems the right way, and she must stand by the consequences of her actions. However, she still is better off than if she had passively accepted her situation.

The Chosen One by Carol Lynch Williams

A disturbing look at life within an extreme religious sect. Although sometimes melodramatic, The Chosen One offers readers a glimpse at a world they could never begin to comprehend but also will hopefully lead the way to an understanding of the extremes to which some people are pushed. Although fairly sophisticated in theme, The Chosen One is written at a middle school level, making it accessible to more readers.

The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson

This is one of those books that helps readers see that ethics aren't always a simple matter of right and wrong, good and bad, or left and right. Certain to prompt discussion or thought, especially in our era of genetic ethics.