I’m Not Dying With You Tonight by Kimberly Jones and Gilly Segal
Lena and Campbell find themselves unwitting friends on a night of riots and disturbance in their town. Both girls were at a football game concession stand, Lena getting something to drink and Campbell working, when they find themselves having to escape a fight that turns into a brawl. The two find their way out of the concession stand and football field, and then must work together to make it home safely—navigating race relations, failing friendships, and hard truths while they are at it. The entire novel takes place in one night, and you’ll be so hooked that you’ll find you have read it in one night, too.
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
The story of two brothers who learn to love themselves and each other as they battle both on the court and at home. Facing everyday struggles such as young love, brotherly quarrels, feelings of isolation, and fear of losing their parents, the two brothers learn to conquer life together, no matter what tries to tear them apart.
Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper
Out of My Mind is the story of Melody Brooks who was born with Cerebral Palsy. Because of this, she has almost no control over her functions, and she struggles to communicate with those around her—but she can speak to us. Narrating the story, Melody tells of her growth and how she overcomes a wrong diagnosis, an inability to communicate normally, and a continual desire to become more independent. By the end of the book, the outside world begins to both understand and accept Melody for the bright, determined spirit that she is.
City of Ember Series by Jeanne DuPrau
For fans of The Giver or The Hunger Games, here’s a must-read. These novels take readers on a journey deep underground to the City of Ember where residents are dependent upon everyone else for things we take for granted, such as light. The characters must rush to find their way out of Ember before it goes completely dark, and thankfully our strong female protagonist, Lina, is there to guide the older, less adventurous adults to their new life.
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jaqueline Woodson
A narrative collection of poems that tells Jaqueline Woodson’s experience growing up during the 1960s and 1970s. Unlike many, Jaqueline has the opportunity to experience this time in America through time in Ohio, South Carolina, and New York. These different places all lent heavily to her childhood, and in this engaging work she is able to expose us to those experiences as well.