"Glass" by Ellen Hopkins

This is the sequel to "Crank," the story of how Kristina Snow met the monster, or crystal methamphetamine. Kristina's taking care of her new baby, studying for the GED and attempting to get her life back on track. She finds herself in a dark depression and she turns to the monster for temporary relief. Her addiction escalates and spirals out of control. This is a heartbreaking story of Kristina's struggle with drugs, and how her negative choices damage her body and her relationships with those she loves, including her young son. Powerful and disturbing.

"The Burn Journals" by Brent Runyon

When Brent was 14 years old, he poured gasoline on himself and lit himself on fire. He survived but suffered from severe burns over 85% of his body. The Burn Journals is Brent's story of the year following this fateful day and his journey towards recovery. After a year of working on physical therapy and struggling with counseling sessions, Brent re-enters high school and the life he left. This is a true story of his suicide attempt, its affect on his family, and his change in outlook on life and living. This is a true story and reminded me of Girl Interrupted and Patricia McCormick's Cut. Intriguing memoir, probably best for 8th grade and up.

"13 Reasons Why" by Jay Asher

Clay Jensen receives a mysterious package of cassette tapes. Upon listening to the first tape, he discovers that they are from his classmate, Hannah Baker, who committed suicide two weeks earlier. Hannah narrates her life at high school, revealing 13 people who influenced her, and how she came to the conclusion to take her own life.

Clay and Hannah went to school together, worked together at the movie theatre and even had the potential for romantic involvement. As Clay listens to Hannah's story, he is devastated to learn about her true feelings and inner turmoil. Hannah wants all 13 people to listen to her, and gives detailed instructions on retracing her steps in the time before her death.

The Centers for Disease control report that it is the third leading cause of death, behind accidents and homicide, of people aged 15 to 24. If you need to talk to someone about suicide, you can call 1-800-suicide or visit http://www.hopeline.com/