"Color of Heaven" by Kim Dong Hwa

This is the final installment in the Color trilogy by Hwa, illustrating his mother's adolescence in rural Korea. This story resumes when Duksam, Elwa's true love, leaves the village to work on a fishing boat. Elwa patiently waits for his return, as he's promised to build her a house and marry her. Elwa and her mother are pining for their men, and taking in the simple pleasures in their daily routine. Korean symbolism, folklore and superstition are interspersed in this calm and tender story about a mother and daughter's relationship, and the men in their lives. Some sexual situations, best for older teens.

"Blankets" by Craig Thompson

There is something satisfying about finishing a 582 page book in 2 days. I love graphic novels! This is Craig Thompson's autobiography about growing up in a strict, Christian home in rural Wisconsin. He meets Raina, and immediately falls in love. He's feeling conflicted about his new feelings and the teachings of his church. Craig's illustrations are absolutely gorgeous and the scenes in the Wisconsin snow are magical and surreal. Craig and Raina's love story is beautifully told, but not sappy, and I only wish I had read this book years ago.

"Breaking Up Is Hard To Do: Stories About Falling Out of Love" by Niki Burnham, Terri Clark, Ellen Hopkins & Lynda Sandoval

Have you had your heart broken, stomped on, destroyed by someone you love? This book is all about the break-up, the absolutely devastating point at which you realize it's over, and how hard it can be to move on. Four different authors contribute to this unique book - and each one's story is heart wrenching. #1 - Toby gets dumped by his hot girlfriend Amber, because he's not ready for sex. #2 - Goth girl Dee gets revenge on her ex, Rick, after finding out he's only after one thing. #3 - Lisa's boyfriend tries unsuccessfully to change her into something she's not. #4 - Lesbian Mia has her heart broken after falling for a straight girl. Kinda steamy, good for 9th and up.

"Shug" by Jenny Han

AnneMarie Wilcox (aka Shug) has been neighbors and friends with Mark Findley ever since she can remember. But they're starting middle school this fall, and Shug can sense things are changing. Her friends are talking about boys, her body's doing weird things, and her parents and twittering on the brink of divorce. When did life get so hard?? Shug is forced to tutor Jack, who drives her crazy, and Mark isn't giving her the attention she craves. Shug's older sister Celia is perfect, popular and has boys calling all the time. Will middle-school ever get easier? Recommended for 5-8th grades.