"Parrotfish" by Ellen Wittlinger

Angela knows that she's always been a boy, and now it's time to let everyone else know. Angela comes out as a transgendered, changing her name to Grady, cutting her hair, and dressing in male clothing. Grady's new identity suits him well, but people in his life are having a harder time adjusting. Friends at school don't always know the best way to react, and some are outright homophobic and hostile. Grady's family is confused, but supportive, and Grady keeps busy helping his dad with their overboard Christmas decorations and the arrival of his newest cousin. This book is great for building awareness around transgendered issues, and provides valuable resources for any questioning teenagers.

"Baby" by Joseph Monninger

Baby has been shuffled through numerous foster homes due to her mother’s alcoholism and neglect. The latest family, the Potters, are old hippies who race sled dogs. Baby finds herself torn between her freedom on the streets and the unconditional support she receives from the Potters. She gains self-confidence from racing the dogs, and she develops a close friendship with the littlest pup, Laika. This book is great for animal lovers, and demonstrates how teens can make difficult life decisions with the support of adults. Little hint of drugs and alcohol. The voice in Baby's head is realistic, I liked this book! Recommended for 7th and up.

"The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain" by Peter Sis

Illustrator Peter Sis grew up behind the Iron Curtain in Czechoslovakia during the Cold War. Communists take control of the whole country, telling people what they can learn in school, and limiting freedom of speech, including art! Peter draws in secret, and is inspired by Western imagery (the Beatles, blue jeans, Coca-Cola). He dreams of a day where he can draw in freedom. Caldecott Honor Book 2008. Recommended for 6th grade and up. Great for school projects.

"The Au Pairs: Crazy Hot" by Melissa de la Cruz

This is the 4th installment in the Au Pairs series. After summer plans go awry, three college girlfriends meet up in the Hamptons for a summer of romance, fashion and nanny duties. Eliza is busy opening her posh boutique and deciding if her boyfriend, Jeremy, is “the one.” Jacqui is swept off her feet by a charming photographer who promises her a lucrative modeling contract. Sensible Mara keeps occupied by watching the kids, and working on her debut blog. The plot is easy to follow and there is decent character description. While their luxurious lives may not be realistic or totally convincing, this makes for an easy beach read. Similar to the Gossip Girls series with high-roller lifestyle, but there's no violence, hint of sex, but nothing graphic. Recommended for 9th and up.

"Life As We Knew It" by Susan Beth Pfeffer

A meteor has hit the moon, causing earthquakes, volcano eruptions and tsunamis all over Earth. Miranda and her family must prepare for the unknown, stockpiling food, wood and supplies. Many neighbors move away as dust clouds take over the skies and frost comes early destroying the hopes of growing food. Miranda's diary recounts how her family sticks together and bonds in close quarters, and how life as they knew it, is changed forever. Powerful book - well written. Good for middle school and up.