The titles below are generally recommended for high school interest levels. Additional titles that may appeal to older teens can be found in Adult Hi-Lo books.
These are only recommendations intended to help educators and guardians find titles to evaluate. The TDRL staff has not reviewed every listed Hi-Lo title and has classified the interest level of these materials based on publisher information and reviews. Educators and guardians should use their best judgment on whether specific titles meet the needs of their young people.
The Ooze by
Bran's taking the recycling down to the basement when the lights go out and the elevator stalls. Bran's phone's dead, he can hear screaming, but he can't get out. Eventually, he manages to pry the doors open to find that something's very wrong. His own mother can't remember his name, there is this black slime dripping out of her ear and then she kills their cat. Bran runs. Outside, Vancouver is teeming with people acting strangely, and they all have the same black slime in their ears. What is going on and how can Bran stop it? This high-interest Orca Anchor title is written specifically for teens reading below a grade 2.0 level.
I Dare You by
What happens when a supernatural hoax turns into a real-life crime? Sixteen-year-old Rainey is surprised when a video he made of a schoolyard fight goes viral. Two schoolmates, Jordan and Rowan, convince him to make another one, this time about a mysterious figure in the woods. Soon rumors are circulating that someone is out there kidnapping kids. Or maybe it's a ghost. The teens are thrilled with the attention their prank is getting and are setting up a follow-up video when things go horribly wrong. A local woman, convinced that the ghost is related to the nightmares she's been having for years, drives out to the area to investigate. The sight of Rowan in costume staggering across her path causes her to drive off the road. When the police start asking questions, Jordan and Rowan abandon Rainey. No one else knows what really happened but will a guilty conscience force Rainey to admit to his part in the accident or will he keep quiet?
Second in Command by
Sixteen-year-old Leo dreams of becoming an Eagle Scout and, someday, a police officer. He makes sure to always do the right thing and be responsible. With his mom deployed and his dad constantly working, Leo is often left in charge of his two younger siblings. Then Leo's brother, Jack, gets caught up in a dangerous plot that rocks the community. Can Leo keep his promise to stand by his brother no matter what, or will he stand on the side of justice?
Behind the Screen by
Hannah's sister, Alexis, has been acting different lately. For one thing, she's constantly on her phone when she never used to care that much about it. But after Hannah discovers that Alexis has developed a relationship with a boy she met online, her strange behavior starts to make sense. What's worse, Alexis plans to skip out on college to run away with this guy. Hannah teams up with her best friend to find out more about the online stranger. What if he isn't who he says he is?
The Captain by
Malik's senior soccer season is off to a great start. He's the team captain, he plays with his best friend, and Coach Washington treats him more like a coach than player. But everything changes when several other teammates--including his best friend--and Coach Washington are accused of participating in a cheating scandal. As Malik struggles to come to terms with what they have done, he must learn how to work with a new coach and lead his new teammates to victory.
Dreams on Fire by
With an incarcerated father and an estranged drug-addicted mother, Shanequa's dreams of higher education feel like a fantasy. When Shanequa gets the chance to attend a prestigious private prep school, she feels like her dreams might become reality. Shanequa finds it easier to lie to her new friends than tell them the truth about her family. When her lies are found out, and Shanequa strikes back in blind rage, her path changes forever.
The Heir by
Rob Briggs is known for two things: being the son of a former soccer pro and being a varsity soccer star. He had plans to follow in his dad's footsteps, but after joining his friend's band, Rob starts to wonder if there could be more to life than just soccer. When a local Battle of the Bands competition winds up taking place on the same day as a major soccer tournament, Rob will have to choose which matters more.
Impossible by
Seventeen-year-old Jemma's older brother took her in when she needed to get away from her abusive ex-boyfriend, Razor. All Jemma wants now is to be a good mom to her baby daughter, Violet. But one night she needs to go out, just for a few minutes, to get diapers and ice cream. On her way back, she witnesses the drive-by shooting of a kid, Kwame, who lives in the same building. The driver is Razor. Jemma is terrified. If she tells anyone what she saw, they'll know she left her baby alone and she might lose custody. But if she doesn't, Kwame's killer will go free. Razor convinces Jemma to make a deal to save her life, but Jemma isn't sure she can live with the consequences.
One Too Many Lies by
Paige and her friends tell the subtle lies that are a part of daily life. White lies to avoid insulting friends. Fibs to escape unwanted judgment from classmates. Half-truths to evade their parents' watchful eyes. But could their lies become dangerous? What happens when the lies become a matter of life and death?
The Recruit by
Tessa knows a soccer scholarship is her best chance at going to college. She's the best player on her small-town high school team--but that doesn't mean much in the big world of college soccer. Luckily, her best friend's sister plays for a nearby university. She offers to help Tessa make the team--but not for free. Tessa must join her snobby sorority, and ditch her high school boyfriend, who is simply not fraternity material. Tessa wonders if it's all worth the cost of admission.
The Superstar by
Daniela is looking forward to soccer season. Not only are the Bay Park Rams a great team, she gets to play alongside her best friend, Rinad. And then there's Kennedy--the newest member of the team--who might just be the best soccer player Daniela's ever seen! But not everyone on the team feels the same way. When Rinad is benched in favor of Kennedy, Rinad partially blames Daniela. Suddenly, more than team chemistry is on the line--can Daniela's friendship with Rinad survive the team's new superstar?
Blurred Reality by
Themes: Virtual Reality, Gaming, Competition, Honor, Perseverance, Relationships, Responsibility, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Grunt Games has created a new video game. World Quest is beyond virtual reality. Players use thoughts to control their avatars. They wear sensors and feel everything. Elite gamer Alden Nash is asked to test the game. As Black Heart, he'll battle three other gamers to find a cure to save Earth. What he ends up finding is a piece of code. This wasn't part of the game. It could be the key to winning--or losing his mind. This series of books was designed specifically for struggling teen readers. The contemporary fiction is written at accessible levels and provides substantive content without being edgy. The relatable plots appeal to teens, especially those who are reluctant to read. Books in the series quickly grab their interest with fast-paced storylines that feature realistic, sometimes larger-than-life teen characters readers can identify with or would like to know. Then there is an unexpected twist. The characters' lives are suddenly on the edge--of fame, fear, or even sanity. What starts out as fun or routine becomes a nightmare, real or imagined. As characters are tested in mind, body, and spirit, readers have a sense of being there to experience the adventure.
Boneyard (Suspense) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Suspense, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. The beach town of Wreckers Cove is rugged, beautiful and just a little spooky--the perfect place for a luxury resort. The town's Museum of the Macabre features a chilling new exhibit of human bones and skeletons. The owner claims they're all fake--but journalist Wilma Roberts believes otherwise. Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Bugged (Science Fiction) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Science Fiction, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Home from college for the summer, Jean and Jared find disturbing changes in the tiny community of Warm Springs. Something suspicious is going on in HybriGene's top-secret laboratory. The twins make it their business to solve the mystery. Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
The Case of the Bad Seed (Detective) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Detective, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Millionaire Dempsey believes that his son, Colin, is up to no good. He wants his new employee, Nikki, to investigate. But the feeble and pathetic man Nikki meets couldn't possibly be responsible for the crimes his father accuses him of. Maybe his half-brother Dylan is setting him up? Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
The Case of the Cursed Chalet (Detective) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Detective, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. The manager of the High Chalets is depending on Nina Blake to discover who is harassing the guests in Chalet 17. But after hearing about a murder in the cabin years ago, Nina isn't convinced that young vandals are respon-sible. Was it possible the chalet was haunted? Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
The Case of the Dead Duck (Detective) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Detective, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Ben is convinced that his troublemaker brother did not commit murder and investigates what he believes to be a case of mistaken identity. But his key witness refuses to answer his questions. Meanwhile his kid brother is sitting on death row. Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
The Case of the Wanted Man (Detective) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Detective, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Rollie Torres works part-time for an investigation service hoping to gain experience before entering the police academy. When an old high school classmate asks for his help, he gets more than he bargained for. Soon the investigation takes over his life. Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
The Case of the Watery Grave (Detective) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Detective, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Anson Ledyard, a computer multi-millionaire has vanished! Is his young wife responsible? Or maybe his eldest son was afraid he would lose his inheritance? Ledyard's luxury car turns up in a crocodile-infested swamp. Bob Pasquale of the Drake Detective Agency sets out to investigate. Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Cloud Warrior by
Themes: Adventure, Kayaking, Nature, Battling the Elements, Friendship, Overcoming Obstacles, Courage, Survival, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. For a kid who can predict weather, Raul really messed up. As he and his friend Juan head out in their kayaks, storm clouds fill the sky. Raul isn't too worried. For him, there's nothing like facing nature. Bad weather. Raging water. The wilderness. He'll take it all on. But then he sees Maria, the one girl he cares about. Why is she here? And will Raul be ready to face a different kind of danger? The human kind. This series of books was designed specifically for struggling teen readers. The contemporary fiction is written at accessible levels and provides substantive content without being edgy. The relatable plots appeal to teens, especially those who are reluctant to read. Books in the series quickly grab their interest with fast-paced storylines that feature realistic, sometimes larger-than-life teen characters readers can identify with or would like to know. Then there is an unexpected twist. The characters' lives are suddenly on the edge--of fame, fear, or even sanity. What starts out as fun or routine becomes a nightmare, real or imagined. As characters are tested in mind, body, and spirit, readers have a sense of being there to experience the adventure.
The Clutch by
In his first game as quarterback for his high school football team, Jordan Bailey Jr. let loose one of the most spectacular passes the school had ever seen. Even though everyone is congratulating him, Jordan isn't sure if he ever wants to play again. But now his friend Lance has brought in the local media, and Jordan is worried that his big secret will be revealed. If he is put to the test again, will Jordan be able to live up to the hype? Or has he belonged on the bench this whole time?
An Eye for an Eye (Spy) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Spy, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. It sounds like the founder of MiraMed needs a detective and not a young psychic who specializes in finding missing persons. But is Greg Dixon really missing? Sandy suspects that her newest client isn't really looking for his business partner. He's looking for money! Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
False Start by
Things were looking good for Jeff. He was ready to rule the school his senior year as the starting running back on the football team. That is, until Scooter came to town. From the moment the tiny kid stepped onto the field, Jeff's life has been turned upside down. First Jeff loses his starting spot, and then even the chance at a football scholarship. Tensions rise as Jeff tries to take back what is rightfully his--his friends, his school, his team--from the quiet kid who became a walk-on star. But is Scooter really out to ruin Jeff's life, or could it all be a huge misunderstanding?
Flashback (Science Fiction) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Science Fiction, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Dozens of people disappeared for weeks at a time from a deserted mountain road only to reappear dazed and confused. Joe saw something that no one was supposed to see. That's why the hypnotist erased his memory. But now it's all coming back to him-and he's in mortal danger! Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Hamlet's Trap (Suspense) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Suspense, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Justin's mind wanders as his English class reads Hamlet. Everyone says that his father's recent death was caused by a "careless accident." But Justin simply doesn't believe it. And his mother's engagement to her old boyfriend further raises his suspcions. Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
A Horse Called Courage (Adventure) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Adventure, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Tami Nguyen's summer job as a camp counselor takes her away from home for the first time. She's lonely, shy--and it's hard for her to make friends. But those problems are nothing compared to her fear of the camp's horses. Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Identify by
Ethan is an anxiety-ridden loner who relies on medication to get through his day. During one of his fairly frequent panic attacks, a girl from school named Gabriella comes to his rescue. Gabe, as she prefers to be known, is facing her own inner turmoil. She has always been a tomboy, but the more pressure she faces to act and dress "like a girl," the more she wonders just who she really is. When he learns that Gabe is being constantly harassed at school, Ethan discovers he is able to overcome his own fears in order to stand up for his new friend. Then Gabe finds a disturbing note in her locker, and the threats begin to escalate. Ethan confronts the person responsible, but things take an unexpected turn, and he suddenly finds himself being questioned by police, accused of assault. With a dose of courage and a surprising ally, the two friends come up with a plan to set things right and end up discovering who they really are along the way.
I Spy E-Spy (Spy) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Spy, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Websound's new software will make or break the struggling young company. Everyone is extra cautious. Security is crucial and Vinnie Torres, who works for the security manager, knows it. But who will guard the security team? Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Murray's Nightmare (Science Fiction) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Science Fiction, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Lazy Rita needed to hit the gym and get in shape. She's grateful when the mysterious Rowena shows up and sup-plies the motivation. But now Rowena is going too far and pushing too hard. Help! Rita wants her life back. Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Once upon a Crime (Mystery) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Mystery, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. First Vivi Calderon finds old letters hidden in some library books while doing research. Then and odd-looking man starts stalking her. Are these strange events related? The letters seem to hold clues to an unsolved homicide. Did Vivi's stalker get away with murder? Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Roses Red As Blood (Suspense) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Suspense, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Julie's parents object to her engagement to Marty. They really like Zeke. Julie's now worried about the frightening change in her fiancé's personality. Why has he suddenly become so angry and suspicious? Looking for a shoulder to cry on, she confides in her pal Zeke. Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Scavenger Hunt (Spy) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Spy, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Roger impresses Jay with his dumpster finds. Then Jay goes dumpster diving and comes up with a hot new computer game. He doesn't know it's infected with a sinister virus. And he certainly doesn't know that someone saw him find it! Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Truth or Dare by
The town of Middleton is on edge after three kids go missing from their campground. Did they simply run away? Or did something more menacing happen? Nevertheless, Trey and his friends plan a camping trip to celebrate graduating from Middleton High. But when someone else goes missing, Trey begins to suspect that an otherworldly force is stalking the local lake. Can he and his friends escape before they, too, vanish without a trace?
Tuesday Raven (Spy) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Spy, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. A gang of terrorists is planning an attack on the Tower of London. Or are they? British intelligence and the CIA combine forces. Follow secret agents Rob and Jenn as they race against time and across London. Can they seize the criminals and uncover their deadly plan before it is too late? Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Under Siege (Science Fiction) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Science Fiction, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. All of the vehicles on Cole's Island seem to have minds of their own, and they want to kill. The class clown and the town punk make an unlikely team. Can they stop fighting long enough to outwit the alien invaders? Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Up North by
Rob Maclean and his mom have moved to a small community in northern Ontario in order to be closer to Rob's imprisoned brother, Adam. One night after a rowdy party, Rob and some friends end up in a van speeding through a First Nations reserve. The driver of the van has a deep hatred for Indigenous people, and he lobs rotten fruit at a group of young men gathered in front of a community center. The young men chase them down, and Rob's friend Alan is injured and ends up in a coma. Now the police are pressuring Rob to identify their prime suspect. This is the second story featuring Rob and Adam Maclean after Coming Clean.
Whatever Happened to Megan Marie? (Mystery) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Mystery, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. The pretty high school junior seems to have everything going for her--until she mysteriously disappears. Has she run away from home? Was she kidnapped? And why is the missing girl's father blaming first-year teacher, Cathy North? Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
When Sleeping Dogs Awaken (Mystery) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Mystery, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Tanner Brice has always resented his stepfather. But is that any reason to suspect the man of murder? When Tanner asks a powerful man to help him investigate his father's death, he quickly finds out that appearances can be deceiving. Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
A Dark Truth by
Riley and Dashawn have been friends since they were three. They got into skateboarding together and have advanced to the point where it's time to create a Sponsor Me tape. They bring a third skater along, Natasha, and try to get some good clips around a new office development. Then the police storm into the lot. The three skaters quickly scatter, trying their best not to get busted. Riley and Natasha arrive at the meet-up spot. They wait and wait, but Dashawn never shows. The next day Riley visits Dashawn, only to discover that the police have given him a "beat-down." Nothing like this has ever happened before, and for Riley it is a wake-up call that whether they know it or not, not everyone lives in the same world he does.
Expecting by
Themes: Realistic Fiction, Rural, Teen Pregnancy, Single Mothers, Drug Abuse, Responsibility, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Three very different girls. But all of them alone. Isolated. And pregnant. They meet at the county's education program for expecting teens. No way will they go to their town's only high school with their growing bellies. Too humiliating. Each girl just hopes to get through the drama. And graduate on time. From the Great Plains to the borderlands to the Mississippi Delta, rural America is struggling. The population is shrinking. And the economy is shifting away from agriculture. Without a safety net, rural families struggle with depression, drug abuse, alcoholism, and other problems. Gravel Road Rural addresses the contemporary issues affecting rural America in an unflinching way.
The Long Run by
Follow Travis Hawk on a cross-country trek as he escapes a world of brutality and uncertainty and puts his trust, and even his very life, in the hands of total strangers. Travis's story is one of struggle, survival, risk and resilience, navigating a solo journey of hundreds of miles to seek a safe haven far from the demons of his past.
Raise the Stakes by
The prize: $10 million The rules: Be the first to complete ten tasks assigned by the Benefactor. Do not ask questions. Do not tell anyone what you're doing. Do not fail. The consequences: Unknown Colin wants out of the Contest. Each task he's assigned by the Benefactor leaves him more convinced that he's part of something shady. Not to mention his every move is being tracked. But the prize money would help Colin's transgender sister, Danni, afford surgery. Can Colin find out what the Benefactor is really up to without ruining his chances to win the Contest?
River Traffic by
Sixteen-year-old Tom LeFave is trying to hold his world together. His family's marina is struggling. His dad is full of secrets. And the quarterback of the football team hates his guts. When a huge yacht docks at Tom's marina, things look brighter, especially when he meets Kat, the daughter of the boat's owner. Kat and Tom share a love of rum-running history. It's not long, however, before Tom starts to realize there's something more than history happening on the river. And if Tom can't figure it out in time, he just might be history too.
Finding Apeman by
Themes: Realistic Fiction, Rural, Drug Addiction, Immigration, Fathers and Sons, College, Teen, Young Adult, Emergent Reader, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Diego is determined to escape his small town where animals far outnumber people. He wants to go to art school, even though his father thinks an artist's life is a road to nowhere--he didn't come to the U.S. so his son could become a starving artist. It's Diego's dream, and he slowly saves for his future by dealing weed, which is easy to come by in the Emerald Triangle. He's the dealer everyone turns to at school, but he refuses to deal in the hard stuff, like meth. His girlfriend's entire family is addicted to drugs; so he's seen its destructive power. From the Great Plains to the borderlands to the Mississippi Delta, rural America is struggling. The population is shrinking. And the economy is shifting away from agriculture. Without a safety net, rural families struggle with depression, drug abuse, alcoholism, and other problems. Gravel Road Rural addresses the contemporary issues affecting rural America in an unflinching way.
Sleight of Hand by
He never should have stolen that Lexus. Now it seems he will have to steal to survive.On a dare from his girlfriend's brother, Javvan steals a neighbor's car. Now he's got a criminal record and a bigger problem: get a job or violate his parole. Endless interviews later and no one will hire him because of his criminal record. Whatever happened to a second chance? Finally, he gets a gig with a contractor named Kevin, and Javvan figures his life is on an upswing. Too bad Kevin's a thief and he's given Javvan one choice. Help him steal, or he'll make sure Javvan ends up back in jail.
Supranormal by
Billy Buckhorn's uncanny intuition became apparent at an early age. In the course of this exciting series, Billy's supernatural abilities grow and develop, and his reputation as a gifted "holy man" in the Old Way spreads throughout the Cherokee Nation. In book three, Supranormal, Billy and his grandfather face a deadly, ancient beast that's poised to take control of the world. While Wesley and Billy summon aid from the spirit realms, Billy's father, a college professor, puts together an archaeological team to help out--and to document the unprecedented things they've seen and experienced. But even with everyone pulling together, can they stop Uktena?
That Selfie Girl by
Themes: Realistic Fiction, Poetry, Verse, Texting and Driving, Death, Heaven, Teen, Young Adult, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Macy is dead. Selfies while driving never end well. She knows it now #suckstobeme. And she has unfinished business. Her friend Ryan is planning to shoot up the school. But the afterlife is so ... unexpected. She gets distracted. Who knew she would find love? Just like prose, a novel in verse tells a story. But verse is unique because readers access the text through short "chapters," or poems. The varying lengths of the chapters are ideal for a struggling reader, giving them breaks to collect their thoughts, to imagine the characters in their mind's eye, and to set the scene--like a frame in a movie. The structure of poetry makes the books appear less intimidating, with plenty of airy white space. Moreover, the depth and substance conveyed in verse is every bit as deep and real as in a Gravel Road prose novel.
Bi-Normal by
Themes: Realistic Fiction, Bisexuality, Bullying, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Brett Miller is one of the kings of Elkhead High. Everyone knows the kings rule the school. Football stars. Pretty girls. The in-crowd. Brett and his buddies are the tormentors; nobody messes with them. His life seems perfect, Normal. His girlfriend Jillia is hot. He loves her. He imagines marrying her someday. Then Brett meets Zach... Hard-hitting, contemporary young adult fiction is not trendy-it's not dystopia. There are no vampires, no werewolves, no castles. It's real life. It's unflinching. Gravel Road highlights the talent of YA authors committed to creating realistic fiction with emotional authenticity. No topic is off-limits: suicide, homosexuality, drugs, rape, gangs, bullying. Teens live with this reality each day. And they find a way to survive. Each paperback book is 116 to 268 pages.
I'm Just Me by
Themes: Realistic Fiction, Racism, Bullying, Cultural Differences, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Nasreen and Mia are two very different girls. But they stand out at Arondale High. And kids make assumptions about the only Muslim and the new black girl--the only African American--in school. "Who let you into the suburbs?" Samantha asks. Everyone gawks. Nasreen has kept her head down for years. Eighteen months and she's out, she tells herself. Off to college. Mia is bold. Yeah, she wishes she were somewhere else, but she's not going to take the bullying lying down. She has to live her life. Graduate. Get into a good school. The school administrators are ignorant. And worse. The bullying escalates. Both at school and online. The girls come up with a plan to fight back. To regain some dignity. To turn the tables on the bullies. Hard-hitting, contemporary young adult fiction is not trendy-it's not dystopia. There are no vampires, no werewolves, no castles. It's real life. It's unflinching. Gravel Road highlights the talent of YA authors committed to creating realistic fiction with emotional authenticity. No topic is off-limits: suicide, homosexuality, drugs, rape, gangs, bullying. Teens live with this reality each day. And they find a way to survive. Each paperback book is 116 to 268 pages.
Counting Scars by
When sixteen-year-old Adele Reimer is forced to spend two weeks at a youth reform camp, she has no idea it will lead to a complicated and dangerous love triangle. With her mother in rehab and her estranged father unable to take immediate custody, Adele's only goal at the camp is to avoid any trouble. But then Adele meets mysterious Fergus and charming Andy and soon finds herself pulled into a dangerous situation that might end up costing her life. Can Adele both listen to her heart and trust her instincts?
Counting Scars by
When sixteen-year-old Adele Reimer is forced to spend two weeks at a youth reform camp, she has no idea it will lead to a complicated and dangerous love triangle. With her mother in rehab and her estranged father unable to take immediate custody, Adele's only goal at the camp is to avoid any trouble. But then Adele meets mysterious Fergus and charming Andy and soon finds herself pulled into a dangerous situation that might end up costing her life. Can Adele both listen to her heart and trust her instincts?
Noelle: the Mean Girl #3 by
Meet the Flyy Girls. The group of girls who seem like they can get away with anything. Veteran author Ashley Woodfolk pens a gorgeous and dynamic series of four Harlem highschoolers, each facing a crossroads of friendship, family, and love. There are only three things that matter to Noelle Lee- her family, school, and the cello. She doesn't care if people see her as selfish or mean because she knows she has her priorities in order. That's why when her dad loses his job, Noelle doesn't hesitate to work more hours at her grandparents' restaurant. Seeing her girls and dealing with her ex-boyfriend have to take a backseat so she can help her family and prepare for her school's fall showcase. But things get more complicated when Noelle realizes she can't stop thinking about Tobyn, one of the other Flyy Girls. With her bad attitude getting even worse, Noelle starts to wonder if working hard even matters, especially if she can't keep her life from falling apart around her. With simply stated text and compelling characters, Flyy Girls is a series that's perfect for readers of any level.
Sink or Swim by
Bruised and battling hypothermia, Bass and Rosie must seek shelter and work together to survive until they can be rescued. Ifthey can be rescued. Sixteen-year-old shy, socially awkward trans teen Bass reluctantly skips school and goes on a boat trip with his adventure-seeking girlfriend, Rosie. When a sudden storm smashes their boat on a rocky shore off a deserted island, Bass and Rosie struggle to make it to safety. After a horrible night, Rosie, an experienced climber, decides to scale a steep cliff to find help. She falls and injures herself badly. Now Bass has to find the strength and courage to swim around a dangerous headland and make his way back to civilization before it's too late.
Stranded by
After his girlfriend's accidental death by overdose, Kipp has been living on the streets, overwhelmed by his grief. He wants to honor her memory and finds help to get clean, but just when he feels like he's getting his life together, everything comes crashing down. He gets fired from his job and kicked out of his rented room on the same day. So when Reba, a friendly woman he met at the shelter, offers him a job and a place to live, he leaps at the chance. This is his lucky break. But when a girl comes to Reba's house looking for her missing brother, Kipp starts to wonder what Reba's real story is and if his lucky break might actually be a nightmare.
The Bodyguard by
Ryan Hale, aka Replay, is the most successful running  back in his high school's history. With university scouts making him offers he can't refuse, his future seems set. The problem is, Ryan would much rather go to film school. But his dad doesn't want to hear it. His teammates sure don't. He can't afford the application fees anyway. But then a solution appears when Markus, a strange exchange student with outrageous stories about mobsters and hackers, offers to pay Ryan to be his bodyguard. Things get complicated when Ryan realizes the stories may be closer to the truth than anyone imagined.
Cub by
In the gay community, a young, husky man is known as a "cub" Seventeen-year-old Theo fits the definition perfectly, but he is very self-conscious about his body. So when his best friend signs him up for a cooking competition at Heat, the city's newest trendy restaurant, Theo is nervous. He's confident in his baking ability, and dreams of opening his own bakery one day, but he's not a chef, and he hates being in the spotlight. As Theo survives round after round, he gains the admiration of both the audience and the restaurant owner, a sexy celebrity chef known as KCC. When the owner makes it clear he is more interested in what Theo might do outside the kitchen, Theo has to decide how far he is willing to go to launch his career.
Family Ties by
When android teens join humans in high school, nothing will ever be the same. Julie's family is very much anti-android. Her parents don't want androids in her school or even in their town. When Julie gets to know a group of androids at school, she questions whether her family's prejudices were correct. Then she learns her parents have joined an anti-android group and have plans to protest the androids at prom. Julie will have to choose between her family and standing up for what's right.
Locked Up by
When he was fifteen, Kevin took a car for a joyride and got in an accident that seriously injured a pedestrian. Now known as "Strider" in juvie, he has spent more than two years incarcerated, learning the hard way how to survive on the inside. Strider keeps his head down and in exchange for protection from another inmate, Strider provides "loans" of money and helps him cheat on schoolwork. But when his parole officer suggests that he apply for early parole, Strider realizes it would be hard for him to survive on the outside. Is there anything waiting for him back home, or should he stay where he thinks he belongs?
Nova in New York by
Seventeen-year-old Nova Abbott grew up dancing barefoot in the backyard with her aunt Ivy, whose dreams of becoming a professional ballerina were cut short by cystic fibrosis. Nova is invited to attend a prestigious ballet school's summer intensive program. She is a bit overwhelmed by New York City: the bustle of people, the talent of the other dancers, the demands of the instructors and being separated from her beloved aunt, whose health is deteriorating rapidly. With a coveted apprenticeship up for grabs, Nova isn't sure she'll make it in the big leagues, and now she's not even sure she wants to.
The One by
Her friend signed her up for a reality dating show as a joke, but when Charlotte is selected, she decides to go ahead with it, in the hopes of winning a scholarship. The four contestants have to win over Dominic, and at first he is exactly like she expected him to be--an arrogant player. But when she gets to know him behind the scenes, he seems like a great guy. As she develops feelings for him, she begins to question her motivations. Maybe true love really can be found, even in the middle of a fraud.
The Right Note by
Eve and Ryan have been a music duo ever since they were little. Eve's voice contrasts with Ryan's creative and edgy musical style, making them a perfect pairing. They decide to audition for The Right Note, a reality music competition, hoping to get their big break. But when the show starts and they are forced to compete against each other, their relationship is tested and they begin to question their musical skills. Will either of them be strong enough musicians to compete on their own? And will they still be a duo at the end of the show?
Shutout by
Alex Paterson is the number-one goalie on his high-school  hockey team. And he's thrilled that his team has made the playoffs. But when graffiti that apparently can be traced back to Alex is found on the walls of the school, and a photo of Alex at a party with a beer in his hand starts making the rounds, he is suspended from the team, and his reputation as a good kid is put in doubt. Alex knows he's innocent. The problem is, he cannot figure out who would want to frame him. Or why. Is it the other goalie who wants all the glory for himself? Or someone from a rival team looking for an advantage? With everyone assuming the worst about him, it's up to Alex to find out who is behind it all, not only to clear his name, but to save the season.
Some Girls Bind by
Jamie knows that she isn't like other girls. She has a secret. She binds her chest every day to feel more like herself. Jamie questions why she is drawn to this practice and why she is afraid of telling her friends, who have their own secrets. Could she really be genderqueer?
Thicker Than Water by
Zack Bernard has a thing for crime shows, especially the forensic-investigation kind. So when his friend Ella goes missing, Zack can't help piecing together what he thinks is concrete evidence that could lead to her whereabouts. The problem is, it's all pointing toward his dad. He knows his dad is lying about not having seen Ella because Zack saw them together at the mall the day she disappeared. What he doesn't know is why. With the help of his friend Ayo, Zack tries to solve the mystery himself to avoid having to make the terrible choice between losing someone close to him and betraying his family.
Treasure Hunt by
When Jazmine and Jason's younger brother's bike gets stolen, they team up to compete in a treasure hunt TV competition so they can use the prize money to replace it. But when they realize they have different strengths and different competing styles, the treasure hunt becomes more challenging than they ever imagined. Will they be able to work together long enough to take home the prize?
The Unbroken Hearts Club by
Ever since her mom died of Huntington's disease, Logan has been in a permanent state of neutral. Her dad has been depressed and lonely, but Logan is . . . something else. So much so that she doesn't even see that her best friend, Cole, is head over heels in love with her. To make matters worse, Logan's dad is now hosting a bereavement group in their basement. That was Logan's place to escape; it's where she keeps her darkroom and where she and Cole indulge their mutual love of cinema and black-and-white photography. But Logan agrees to help her dad out with these sad "Broken Hearts Club" meetings, unaware of the effect the group will have on her as she struggles to find meaning in her life.
Warrior Zone by
When Fiona enters a physical feats TV competition, she is excited to see how she matches up against other athletes from around the country. She works hard and beats out many of her competitors. But when she reaches the final round, she finds that the show has been rigged all along. The producers take her off-screen to tell her that one of the other contestants has been chosen to win and that she needs to pretend to lose--or she won't win any money. Fiona must choose between competing fairly or playing by the producers' rules.
Casting Lily by
Fourteen-year-old Ava is thrilled when she lands a part in a play based on the true story of orphans sent to Canada in the 1800s to work on farms. But is she good enough to hold her own in a professional production? As the rehearsal pressures crank up, Ava struggles with her character, with the vocal demands of outdoor theater and with the annoying ego of her castmate Kiefer. But as she learns more about the historical Lily on which her part is based, things begin to fall into place. Then one bad decision jeopardizes Ava's chances of being able to perform on opening night.
Charming by
Seventeen-year-old Char loves music, but never considered a singing career until her singing went viral online. Now instead of participating in the Gay Lesbian Alliance, Char devotes herself to seeking fame. When she is viciously bullied online she finds an app that supports victims of cyber-bullying. Naming herself @Charming, Char gets to know the app's creator, @Cinders. @Cinders inspires Char to reconsider her obsession with online fame. When @Cinders turns out to be Ash, a girl at Char's school, Char must show Ash how much she means to her. Charming is a modern retelling of Cinderella, where Prince Charming is a girl who learns the nature of fame and love.
Cinders by
After seventeen-year-old Ash's mother dies, Ash is left with her mother's boyfriend and his children. They bully her by posting embarrassing pictures and making her do their homework. Ash's only solace is the app she developed to help people being cyber-bullied. Calling herself @Cinders, Ash chats online with a girl named @Charming. Discovering @Charming is Char, a singer who goes to Ash's school, Ash comes to admire Char's courage in self-identifying as a lesbian. Char helps Ash help others, instead of being bitter. Ash finally feels like someone sees that she is special and supports her. A modern Cinderella, Cinders tells the story of overcoming adversity and bullying with kindness and compassion.
Cold Grab by
Sixteen-year-old Angelo moved to Toronto from the Philippines to join his mother, who has been living and working in Canada for most of his life. Adjusting to a new country isn't easy, but when Angelo's mother takes him to the Filipino Community Centre he meets Marcus who has shared the same experience. At school, Marcus introduces Angelo to Felix and Darius. The boys quickly show Angelo how no one respects poor Filipino immigrants and lure him into running petty thefts as a way of evening the score. But when the group is faced with consequences will Angelo have the courage to go against his friends and set things right?
Every Little Bad Idea by
The women in Skyler Wise's family have a weakness for bad boys, but not Skyler. She has one thing on her mind, leaving her run-down neighborhood and going to college. When Skyler's normally strict mom starts dating again, she feels abandoned. Skyler meets Cole, a boy who makes her question everything she thought she knew about herself and her future. Even though he has a dangerous reputation, Skyler believes she knows the real Cole, the sweet, caring boyfriend who makes her feel seen for once in her life. When Cole starts to change, Skyler realizes that she'll do anything to keep him around, even if it means giving up her dream and losing the people closest to her.
Fifteen and Change by
Zeke would love to be invisible. His mother is struggling to make ends meet and stuck with a no-good boyfriend. Zeke knows he and his mom will be stuck forever if he doesn't find some money fast. When Zeke starts working at a local pizza place, he meets labor activists who want to give him a voice, and the living wage he deserves for his work. Zeke has to decide between living the quiet life he's carved for himself and raising his voice for justice.
The House by
The old, abandoned house at the end of Grace's street is a local legend. All the neighbors say it's haunted, but every Halloween someone leaves candy on the front porch. Grace and her friends decide to investigate, hoping to find out once and for all if someone--or something--really is haunting the place. But what if there is more to the house than there seems?
Kryptonite by
Jackson knows how to get what he wants. Whether it's sweet-talking his friends into buying lunch or convincing teachers to give him extensions, he feels entitled to take whatever he wants--even a day off school or a new pair of shoes. Now he's set his sights on Abby, a troubled girl fresh out of juvie who only has eyes for Bryce, the go-to dealer of a dangerous new drug called kryptonite.
A Name Earned by
After overcoming years of trouble with his alcoholic father and surviving a near-death car accident, Bobby Byington--for the first time in his life--has a strong family. His parents are reunited, his father has turned away from the bottle, and Bobby is a starter on the high school basketball team. But the door to trouble never stays closed. Bobby's girlfriend, Faye, is suffering attacks from a school bully, and some of Bobby's basketball teammates are dealing with all-too-familiar problems at home. Hoping to help his friends, Bobby shares the legend of No Name, a story about a young man's heated relationship with his father. Coach Robison told it to him back when Bobby needed to hide from his own dad. As the playoffs near and the team plays to win, Coach delivers another message that extends well beyond the basketball court: "Your life is carved by the choices you make. You earn your name by your actions."
The Natural by
Kamal is used to being the top dog on his soccer team, until Justin joins. Justin is what you'd call a "natural". He is talented, athletic, and has all the making of a star. Although he doesn't play like one yet, Justin is improving like crazy and threatening to take Kamal's place on the team. Not only that, he's taking all the attention off Kamal, from the girls, Kamal's favorite teacher, and even Kamal's best friends. Kamal's got years of experience under his belt, but will that be enough to stand against a natural?
The Same Blood by
Twin sisters Elena and Marianella couldn't be more different. Marianella goes out of her way to actively participate in their Puerto Rican culture, whereas Elena is embarrassed by their traditions. Marianella is also fighting a very private battle with mental illness, and takes her own life not long after their fifteenth birthday. As Elena mourns her sister, she tries to live her life without the limitations and rules Marianella set for her. When her life spirals out of control, Elena realizes the depth of her roots and the guilt of not helping her sister before it was too late.
Slip Jig Summer by
Fifteen-year-old Natalie is obsessed with ballet and plans to spend the entire summer in dance class with her two best friends. But when her mom gets a job out of town, Natalie gets shipped off to stay with cousins she barely knows. Natalie is thrilled when her cousins invite her to join them at the local dance studio. But it turns out it's not a ballet class; it's Irish dance. Skeptical at first, Natalie is surprised to learn she really enjoys the new dance style and agrees to take part in an upcoming competition. But this new passion could result in Natalie having to leave her ballet dreams behind.
Tracks by
Nick and Ava have become friends over the fact that they're the only upper classmen who still ride the bus to school. And every day, they see the same boy--who they call The Kid--walking along the train tracks, even when the weather is terrible or when he's clearly fighting a bad cold. When Nick notices the mysterious boy practically sprinting along the tracks one day and he doesn't show up the next, Nick and Ava begin to wonder if something might be wrong. But how can they help when they don't even know who The Kid is?
True Blue by
Elle is on the road as an opening act for Johnny James, the biggest star in country music. Touring is everything she's ever dreamed of, but it has unexpected downsides: crazy fans, jealous backup singers, weird rules on the tour bus. But when something goes terribly wrong during a performance, Elle struggles to figure out how she can make things right with her fans, her father, her record company and with her friend Webb. True Bluecontinues the story that began in Billboard Express.
The Turnaround by
Justin has always been a big fan of Mason Falls High School's baseball team, the Lions--even though they are the worst in their division. But this season, the Lions are playing surprisingly well under the new coach. Almost too well to believe. Justin wonders if the new coach has simply whipped the players into shape, or if something else is responsible for the team's drastic turnaround.
What If by
Josh Baker isn't sure why his brain tells him to do things that other people don't need to do: checking his locker again and again, counting cracks in ceilings, and always needing to finish a song, for starters. He is a talented drummer, a math genius, and he knows everything about rock and roll. Yet, he knows his problems have the power to hurt his family and make him fail at school. When Josh is diagnosed with OCD, it's a blessing and a curse. Can he overcome his thoughts, or will they break him?
Alien Invasion by
Solo_Lobo is a gamer who prefers to play by himself. But then he winds up in a virtual game set aboard an alien space station with a know-it-all robot named Spec. Spec is supposed to help him find the rest of his crewmates who've also been captured by the aliens. Seems like a piece of cake until Solo_Lobo learns the catch: he can't be seen by the aliens or he'll risk getting caught in their disanimator eye beams, which will send him right back to Level 1. Can he rescue his crew in time to win the game? And is there more to Spec than what she seems?
Blood Moon by
Mateo has waited all year for this weekend: a road trip with his best friends to view the fabled blood moon eclipse. Even better, they're riding in the jeep he rebuilt himself. But when a driverless truck appears out of nowhere, their fun turns to terror. Driven off the road, Mateo and his friends realize there's something sinister happening under the eclipse. Can Mateo and his friends escape the spirits of the blood moon, or will they be cursed forever?
Caged by
Even if Kenzie's dog had somehow managed to escape from the family's fenced backyard, Kenzie knows the big, lovable chocolate Lab wouldn't have gone far. As they search for Clancy, Kenzie and his dad keep hearing stories about other dogs that have gone missing too. When Kenzie finds Clancy's ID tag and spots a van loaded up with dog food, he knows he has to investigate further. With the help of a schoolmate whose dog has also disappeared, Kenzie uncovers an illegal operation that grabs dogs off the street and turns them into bloodthirsty killers.
The Cold, Cold Shoulder (Suspense) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Suspense, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Freddy Paine has disappeared! Suspecting foul play, two of his roommates begin to investigate. Why will no one help them? The manager of their boarding house brushes off the boys' questions. Others just seem disinterested, until they find the body! Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Danny Blackgoat by
During the Civil War, the United States Army imprisoned thousands of Navajos in unsafe conditions at Fort Sumner. Through the eyes of teenager Danny Blackgoat, we experience their struggle to survive. In this third Danny Blackgoat novel, which completes the saga, the major characters appear in a final scene of reckoning. Jim Davis, a rebel Civil War prisoner and Danny's friend, is arrested for horse theft, and Danny must choose between helping his friend or remaining free. Only the word of a Navajo woman can save them both, but will she arrive at Fort Sumner before the bugles sound and the hanging begins?
Dark Star by
What happens when the seemingly perfect new girl isn't so perfect after all? A group of high school students take an extra-credit field trip to the bluffs to watch a midnight meteor shower. However, it quickly becomes dangerous when the new girl sets her sinister plan into motion. Perfect grades can't hide her true intentions. As the countdown to midnight begins, students start disappearing. Suddenly, passing science class is the last thing on everyone's mind. How will they all make it out alive? And who is this mysterious new student?
A Deadly Game (Spy) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Spy, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. The rebels on campus oppose more rules and regulations, but the computer system at Mayfair College is under attack. Is the hacker a mischief-maker or a dangerous criminal? Luckily, Jim Salvatori's past makes him the perfect cybercop--and especially qualified to answer that question. Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
Desert Slam by
For spring break, sixteen-year-old Maya travels from Vancouver to Palm Springs to visit her grandparents, soak up the sun and play some tennis. When they surprise her with tickets to the Indian Wells tennis tournament, she can't believe her luck. This is going to be the best vacation ever. But on the way back from the match they get into a fender bender. The other driver suggests they just square up and not involve the police or insurance companies. That seems odd to Maya, especially since the passenger of the other vehicle is visibly pregnant. But because Maya was driving, her grandfather is worried about repercussions and agrees to the deal. Later, Maya and her new friend Ruby discover that similar incidents have happened to others in her grandparents' gated community. They start to investigate, and when they spot the woman from the crash working in a clothing store, and clearly notpregnant, they know they are onto something.
Escape from Earth (Science Fiction) by
Themes: Life Lessons, Values, Identity, Good vs. Evil, Temptation, Science Fiction, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Nick's new college roommate, Darryl, needs some help. At first glance, Nick thinks he's a real dork. And what's with the briefcase? But Darryl's problem is literally "out of this world." If his enemies catch up with him, his race is doomed! Written specifically for struggling readers to explore genres, like mysteries and science fiction, these fast-paced books hold student interest until the last page. Questions at the end of each title promote cognitive development by making students think about vocabulary, comprehension, character, and plot.
The Extra Point by
After she gets cut from the soccer team her senior year, Riley doesn't know what to do. She had the best kick on the team but wasn't fast enough. When the high school football team is in desperate need of a new kicker, Riley decides to go for it. But swapping a soccer ball for a football isn't so easy. Riley has to learn how to kick a football and deal with a teammate who isn't happy about her being on the team. When it comes down to the wire, will her natural talent be enough? Or will Riley crack under the pressure?
Firewall by
Josh is a gamer. After his parents' divorce and his move from Chicago to a small town where he doesn't know anybody, he copes by staying up way too late playing Killswitch online. Then he discovers a "mod" version of the game that is an exact reproduction of his new town. Strange things start to happen in the game, and they are somehow connected with events in the real world.
He Who Dreams by
Juggling soccer, school, friends and family leaves John with little time for anything else. But one day at the local community center, following the sound of drums, he stumbles into an Indigenous dance class. Before he knows what's happening, John finds himself stumbling through beginner classes with a bunch of little girls, skipping soccer practice and letting his other responsibilities slide. When he attends a pow wow and witnesses a powerful performance, he realizes that he wants to be a dancer more than anything. But the nearest class for boys is at the Native Cultural Center in the city, and he still hasn't told his family or friends about his new passion. If he wants to dance, he will have to stop hiding. Between the mocking of his teammates and the hostility of the boys in his dance class, John must find a way to balance and embrace both the Irish and Cree sides of his heritage.
In Plain Sight by
Fifteen-year-old Megan "Cause Queen" Caliente is president of the political science club and likes to make her voice heard. But after the protest she organized on the Las Vegas Strip takes an unexpected turn, she is suddenly wishing she could disappear. When her mother comes to pick her up at the police station, Megan learns, to her horror, that her whole life has been a lie. Her father is a convicted terrorist, responsible for the deaths of more than two hundred people, and her mother has been living under an assumed name for fifteen years. Megan's mom is taken away in handcuffs, and Megan is expected to return to her regular life under the supervision of her aunt. But everyone, students and teachers alike, is treating her differently now. Cruel accusations and gossip, as well as persistent reporters, follow her everywhere. Worried that she is destined to follow in her father's footsteps, Megan, with the help of the charismatic Matt Mendez, the only person at school who hasn't turned on her, decides to track down the father she thought was dead and get some answers.
The Late Hit by
With talk of their high school shutting down for good, Busby and his best friend Anton know that it might be up to their football team to save the school. With such high stakes, is it worth it to ignore injuries and push through? Will a concussion keep Anton--the star quarterback--from playing? Not if he has anything to say about it! Busby is forced to make a difficult decision. . . .
No More No Name by
Bobby Byington has always had to navigate his father's alcoholism and anger, but things are looking up. His father has stopped drinking, his mother is back home, and his basketball team is winning games. But two new problems surface when his "smart" girlfriend is bullied by a resentful schoolmate and a fellow team member is bullied by an abusive father. This is the second novel in the No Name series.
Pinch Me by
After another night of girls, music and booze, seventeen-year-old pop star Darius Zaire falls out of bed and lands on the cruddy floor of his old bedroom. No mansion, no luxury cars, no platinum records. Now he's just ordinary Darren Zegers. Some kind of nightmare has erased everything that happened to change Darren the dweeb into Darius the multimillionaire. Now Darius has to face an ordinary day in the twelfth grade, suffering through remedial English and wondering what happened to the last three years, let alone all his fans and money. He desperately wants to return to his old life, but he is starting to worry that maybe thisis reality, and it was his other life that was the dream.
Pod Racer by
A11_4_ON3 is a gamer who likes to look out for himself--especially when it comes to winning. When he learns he's part of a four-player team with his former gaming crew, no one is happy to work together again. But their team must win this virtual reality racing game, or they'll be trapped inside the virtual world forever. Can he change his attitude for the sake of his team? Or will his self-centered playing be their downfall?
Pop Quiz by
Fifteen-year-old Aiden is a minor cast member on a long-running high school "dramedy" with a low budget and a loyal following. Aiden and his friends are excited that they're being promoted to lead roles for the upcoming tenth season of Pop Quiz. But then they learn the show is being canceled. According to the producers, no one even watches TV anymore, with kids preferring the antics of YouTube stars. With the help of some former cast members and a group of hardcore fans, Aiden and his friends attempt to create a movie special to wrap up the storylines and give the series the send-off it deserves.
Pov by
When first-year film student Spencer O'Toole is asked to make a music video for a band, he leaps at the chance. But Jerry, Spencer's dad, shows up, and somehow the band assumes he's in charge, despite the fact that he has zero background in film. And then there's Scratch, violent gang member turned sleazy music producer, who keeps making big promises but fails to deliver on a single one. Spencer has no idea how he's going to get this thing made. When the band invites him and his dad up to a cottage for the weekend, Spencer takes the opportunity to ditch Jerry. But one small fib snowballs into dozens of lies, and soon Spencer finds himself in way over his head.
Safe Zone by
No_Idea has actually no idea how he wound up in the middle of a zombie apocalypse. It's not until he meets another player, named N3V3RDIE, that he learns he's been selected to test a virtual reality video game. And if they don't win the game, they'll be stuck inside the virtual world forever. Will No_Idea figure out the gameplay and make it to the game's safe zone in time, or will he end up trapped in a world filled with virtual zombies?
Showdown by
With the state tournament finals just around the corner, the crosstown rivalry between the Edison High Eddies and the Winfield Wildcats heats up. Toby and Walter, second-string Edison sophomores, are just along for the ride. But when a series of pranks led by the star seniors goes too far, will these second-string players be able to fill the shoes of the starters? Or did their teammates' bad behavior cost the Eddies the state title?
Show Mode by
Adina has always wanted to be a part of the annual fashion show at her school for the arts. Now that she's finally in the ninth grade, she and her friends can audition. She knows their act could be perfect. They've got great music, gorgeous costumes and wicked dance moves. But Willow is being her usual flaky self, and Sandra's getting touchy. Maybe even a bit mean. Luckily, Seth remains steady and reliable. Their biggest competition is the annoyingly perfect Prima Donnas, who are doing everything they can to undermine Adina and her friends. Adina is used to working hard at everything she does, including her violin, art, drama and singing classes. But her friends are getting sick of her ordering them around. They just don't get what a huge deal this is. When one of the Prima Donnas gets injured during their audition, minutes after Sandra storms off in a huff, the two groups realize that in order to succeed, they may have to work together.
Signing Day by
As their senior year comes to a close, Iggy and Calvin realize that they might not play football together after they graduate. So when a scout from the University of Coastal California expresses interest in signing both of them, the pair is ecstatic. But while Calvin is becoming more confident in the decision to play for UCC, Iggy isn't so sure. He is torn between his dream to play for a different team and the friend who is more like a brother. If he gets another offer, what will Iggy do? Stay with Calvin? Or set out on his own path and risk losing the friendship forever?
Strings Attached by
Brielle and Tawni have played cello side by side in orchestras since they were nine years old. Brielle has always played second chair to Tawni's first, and she's been happy with that arrangement. When Tawni is injured, Brielle suddenly finds herself principal cellist. Not only does that mean she'll be thrust into the spotlight, but it also means she is now leader of the cello section. Brielle is terrified. Is she good enough? Will the other musicians accept her? What if she screws up? Despite her fears, Brielle rises to the occasion. Her cello skills, and her leadership skills, improve as she grows into her new role. But just as Brielle is beginning to feel confident, Tawni returns. And she wants her job back. If Brielle steps down now, she'll lose her place in the spotlight. If she doesn't, her friendship could be in jeopardy.
Another Miserable Love Song by
Kallie Echo is starting to think dreams are dangerous. Her dad had one--to be a rock star--and then he died. Now Kallie is practically homeless and her life is falling apart. So when a punk band asks Kallie to sing for them, she surprises everyone, including herself, with her powerful voice. She's also surprised to learn that Jamie, her best friend and the drummer of the band, is transitioning. More surprising is his confession that he is madly in love with Kallie. The band goes on tour, and everything hinges on Kallie. It's a lot of pressure--especially when you throw in substance abuse and Kallie's deadbeat mom showing up at the worst possible time. Kallie must learn to trust her friends, and herself, if she's going to get over the past and carve out a future. But if she dares to dream again, will she lose it all?
Breaking Big by
Robin's got everything it takes to be a principal dancer: the body, the feet, the strength and the passion. But his devil-may-care attitude plays havoc with discipline at the Premier Dance School. One more prank may be one too many. That's why everyone is shocked when he's the only student dancer picked to understudy with the company, even though the choice makes sense--Robin is cast as Puck, the annoying trickster fairy in A Midsummer's Night Dream. Shock turns to horror when the principal dancer is injured and Robin has to perform instead. The other dancers don't think he can pull it off, and even Robin wonders if it's too much too soon. Will his big break kill his career before it even starts?
Enough by
Life hasn't been easy for fifteen-year-old Lizzie Jackson since her father's sudden death four years ago. Shortly after he died, her mother, Lydia, began dating and drinking herself into oblivion, leaving Lizzie to parent her younger brother, Charlie. Things go from bad to worse when Lydia marries Dean. To protect Charlie from Dean's rage, Lizzie makes herself the target of his abuse. But when Dean sexually assaults Lizzie, things change forever. Can she continue to ensure her brother's safety after she flees their home?
Gang Tackle by
After budget cuts force the Southside Saints football team to disband, Jamal and his friends have to settle for playing pickup on the hardscrabble field behind their high school. Then the president of a sporting-goods company offers to donate $20,000 worth of equipment to the team. There's only one catch: he wants to be the coach. Thrilled to have a real team together, the players turn a blind eye to Coach Fort's racism, bullying and discrimination. Until he takes it too far. Now it's up to Jamal and his teammates to take back their team and show what they're made of.
High Note by
Hailey McEwan has many interests--soccer, field hockey, animation. She'd probably never have started singing if her best friend, Crissy, hadn't persuaded her to take singing lessons and join her choir. No one had any idea that Hailey would be such a natural, least of all Hailey herself. A shared love of music--from pop to opera--has been a big part of the girls' friendship, but when the two face off in a competition for a role in a production of The Marriage of Figaro, their closeness turns into a bitter rivalry. Hailey will have to make a tough decision. Is opera as important to her as it is to Crissy? And is landing a role worth losing her best friend?
Scam by
Josh's mother always had issues--with drugs and just getting by. And Josh has always been the one who kept them together. But when his mom dies, he really is on his own and must find a way to look after himself. On his way to his mother's funeral he meets Lindsay, a cute girl who flirts with him but then steals his wallet. When he confronts her and tells her where he is going, she apologizes, returns his wallet and convinces Josh to let her accompany him to the funeral. So begins a complex relationship that changes both of their lives forever.
Stepping Out by
Laughter is fifteen-year-old Paige Larsson's currency in life. It takes the sting out of life's tough stuff. It eases the pain of nasty comments, agonizing moments in gym class and awkward pauses at parties. She likes it even more when others laugh with her, so she's become a YouTube comedy vlogger. Now Paige is about to step out of her comfort zone and compete--live and onstage--in the prestigious International Teens in Comedy festival. Winning will give her the opportunity to work with some of the biggest names in comedy. It'll also mean $10,000 for her school's performing-arts department. But Paige has always used her humor to mask the pain of a disability, and in the world of stand-up comedy, that won't cut it anymore.
To the Point by
Randy prides himself on being all a team captain should be. He expects a lot from himself and from his teammates. But his high standards are challenged when he discovers some players are cheating in school. Although he takes his role as team captain seriously, Randy's worried that exposing the wrongdoing of teammates will put their tournament in jeopardy. Is he ready to take that risk?
Under Threat by
Franny is close to her parents, adores her horse and is head over heels in love with her girlfriend, Leah. But Franny's parents are abortion providers at the local hospital, and an anonymous stranger is prepared to do whatever it takes to stop them. A stranger who phones at all hours. Who knows where they live. Who knows Franny's name. When Leah's older brother, Jake, refers to her parents as baby killers, Franny starts to wonder if perhaps the threats aren't coming from a stranger at all. If she tells the police about her suspicions, she could lose her girlfriend. But if she doesn't--and if she's right--she could lose her parents.
Upstaged by
Ellie is used to getting leading roles in her small-town school's musicals, but her place at center stage disappears when her dad becomes the host of a breakfast TV show and they have to move to the big city. When Ellie auditions for--and lands--a spot with the Youth Works Theater Company, she comes up against a tight-knit group of talented, experienced and competitive triple-threat performers. Not only does she not get a lead, but she has to share a role with Marissa, a company veteran who seems determined to do all she can to outshine Ellie. Out of her depth and far from all that she's known, Ellie wonders just what she has to do to stop feeling upstaged by everyone around her.
At Ease by
At fifteen, Will already knows he wants to spend his life playing classical violin. And when he is invited to take part in a summer program for young musicians, he realizes it is a chance to make his dream a reality. But years of playing only for Mr. Jorgensen, his elderly neighbor and mentor, haven't prepared Will for what will happen when he steps onto the stage. He never expected the self-doubt that takes over his thoughts, or the fear of failure that makes his hands shake and his heart race. What happens when the one thing you need to achieve your dreams is something you find utterly terrifying?
Fire Fight by
After her ikusin(grandmother) dies, Kai Hunter, a part Navajo, part Stoney Nakoda sixteen-year-old, runs away to Banff, Alberta, to avoid being placed in a foster home. Kai lies her way into a new identity, a job and a safe place to live. She makes new friends and volunteers with a rapid-attack crew for the forestry service. She even meets a great guy named Rory, who's into motorcycles, just like her--and who seems to be into her too. But Kai is scared of being found out, and she isn't sure that she can trust all of her new friends...or that she likes the person she's pretending to be. Meanwhile, she's got to pay rent, figure out whether Rory is boyfriend material and assist the rap-attack crew as it faces a string of suspicious forest fires. In the thrilling conclusion to this romantic adventure, Kai's choices become matters of life and death.
Foolproof by
Orca Soundings are short, fully formed fiction stories published in a narrow hip pocket format. With linear plots and controlled vocabulary and grammar, the books are designed for self-directed reading. They feature compelling stories about real teenagers in realistic situations, including issues such as:* divorce* violence & bullying* drug use* loss* racism* gang pressure* death* prostitution.Orca Soundings are ideal for quick reads, reading programs or ESL/EFL students.Seventeen-year-old Daniel's new girlfriend says she loves him, that she'd do anything for him. She makes Daniel feel like anything is possible. So he ignores her lies. It's not like Cyn is a bad person. Then Daniel finds out that Cyn has been using him to move drugs across the border. Foolproof is a tough book about the consequences of gang life that asks readers to consider the line between taking risks and taking lives. Daniel crosses that line and learns a hard lesson--that no one ever thinks they are the bad guy.
The Frail Days by
Sixteen-year-old drummer Stella, guitarist Jacob and bassist Miles need a wild singer for their old-school rock band. When they discover nerdy Tamara Donnelly, who nails the national anthem at a baseball game, Stella is not convinced Tamara's sound is right for the band. Stella wants to turn Tamara into a rock goddess, but Tamara proves to be a confident performer who has her own ideas about music and what it means to be epic cool. When their band, the Frail Days, starts to build a local following, Stella and Tamara clash over the direction the band should take, forcing them to consider what true musical collaboration means.
Raising the Stakes by
It's the start of a new season for Harrington High's improv team--and Chloe is determined that this will be the year they make it all the way to the top. Her teammates (who also happen to be her closest friends) are a talented bunch, and she knows they can do it. They have to. Because getting to nationals is Chloe's best chance to prove--to her parents, to the improv scouts and, most of all, to herself--that she has what it takes to succeed. Chloe is doing everything she can to help her teammates perform better. So why are they all mad at her?
Skinhead Birdy by
Themes: Realistic Fiction, Mental Illness, Punk Rock, Rape, PTSD, Bisexuality, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Expelled from high school number one, Tyler Ruiz is attending his second. Not a great record for a sophomore with anger issues. Then he meets Sara Allen. Tyler's a good-looking guy, so he figures Sara's an easy hookup. But she isn't. She's complicated. And uninterested. Which makes Tyler want her even more. As he learns about Sara's punk rock world, Tyler's protective outer layers peel away. And he falls hard--for a girl who is mentally unstable and achingly vulnerable. Hard-hitting, contemporary young adult fiction is not trendy-it's not dystopia. There are no vampires, no werewolves, no castles. It's real life. It's unflinching. Gravel Road highlights the talent of YA authors committed to creating realistic fiction with emotional authenticity. No topic is off-limits: suicide, homosexuality, drugs, rape, gangs, bullying. Teens live with this reality each day. And they find a way to survive. Each paperback book is 116 to 268 pages.
Tap Out by
Orca Soundings are short, fully formed fiction stories published in a narrow hip pocket format. With linear plots and controlled vocabulary and grammar, the books are designed for self-directed reading. They feature compelling stories about real teenagers in realistic situations, including issues such as:* divorce* violence & bullying* drug use* loss* racism* gang pressure* death* prostitution.Orca Soundings are ideal for quick reads, reading programs or ESL/EFL students.When Darwin's father went to prison for assault, his mom decided it was time to move him from his inner-city school to the elite Norfolk Academy. It was supposed to be a brand-new start for him. But old instincts die hard, and Dar is used to fighting for everything.Convinced by a new friend to take part in an illegal fight club, Dar starts competing in no-holds-barred matches between students. He quickly rises to become the best in the ring. When one match goes too far and a student is almost killed, Dar faces a choice. Everyone tells him he's a fighter, but he needs to decide for himself - who is he, and what is he fighting for?
Walking Two Worlds by
"Eee-leee! Master Parker," Reverend Stone, headmaster at the Baptist school, called. "The answer, please." "Four," Ely thought. But he also thought something else. Why is English so strange? In Seneca every word always meant the same thing. But in English the same sound could mean different things. It could be four. Or for. Or fore. So begins this inspiring story of the early education of a famous Native American who gained greatness in the white man's world while staying true to his Seneca people. Hasanoanda was his Indian name. But in mission school he became Ely. He encountered racism and deceit but, against all odds, did not give up on his quest to walk between two worlds.
The Bike Thief by
Nick just wants to replace the TV his sister accidentally broke before their foster parents find out. To repay the debt, the sixteen-year-old has to steal bikes, break them down and rebuild them to sell. But the debt and the violence keep growing. Even Nick's own beloved fixed-gear bike--the fixie he built with his dad--is up for grabs. Should Nick recruit younger "runts" to do his dirty work? Should he find a way to give back the bike of the cute girl at the diner now that he sort of likes her? And how can Nick protect his little sister from the creepy guy with the shades?
Final Crossing by
Will is the most uptight criminal. Ever.Will and Big O are brothers and best friends-and small-time crooks. Ever since their dad went to prison, they've been stealing to survive. On a ferry ride from the big city, they hatch a plan for one more score: they'll break into the cars on the ferry during the trip and scrape together enough to get out of town. And maybe out of the criminal life forever. But everything goes south when they discover one car that contains more than they bargained for: a young kidnap victim. Pursued by a crazed professional criminal, the brothers must now survive the night and a final crossing into a new life.
Forcing the Ace by
Alex wants to enter the Silver Stage magic competition, but he needs a sponsor. Jack, a veteran card wizard, is willing to take on the role, but only if Alex agrees to team up with Zoe, another young magician--and Alex's rival. Working with Jack and sharing the spotlight with Zoe, Alex comes to see that there are other ways to be a magician besides competing--and that magic is about entertaining people, not fooling them.
Homecoming by
Fiona's dad comes home after sixteen months and eight days in jail. Along with her mother and family friends, she awkwardly welcomes him home. Uncle David is there, because he picked Dad up at jail. Dad's best friend Simon, his wife May and neighbor Elisabeth are also at the house to greet Dad. He's been away so long, it's an uncomfortable reunion for Mom and Fiona, who have suffered financially, emotionally and socially in his absence. Even the dog, Honey, isn't sure about Fiona's dad anymore. Fiona's dad was in jail for a crime he didn't commit. Or did he? Fiona thought she knew him. Believed he was innocent. But now that he's home, her friends, her teachers, even her mom--everyone is treating him like a criminal. Guilty or not, Fiona's father has ruined everything. When she starts getting lured into the darker side of life, she discovers who her father really is.
Honeycomb by
When Nat, her best friend Jess and singing-star wannabe Harper sing together, their harmonies bring down the house. For Nat, the experience sparks a driving new desire to perform. But when the girls form a trio and enter a contest for a chance to play at the Tall Grass Music Festival, Nat finds that harmony--musical and otherwise--is hard to maintain. Her bandmates almost never agree, her new boyfriend starts behaving more like a non-boyfriend, and the trio's famous-musician mentor doesn't even like the way Nat breathes. Every day, Nat's dream of performing at Tall Grass seems farther away, and she questions whether she has what it takes to get there.
Hot New Thing by
Lily is discovered by a big-name director when she's auditioning for a role in a toothpaste commercial. He wants her for his new movie, which is great except for the fact that it's shooting in Los Angeles and Lily lives in Vancouver. With the help of her Chinese grandmother, she convinces her parents to let her go to LA with her agent as a chaperone. But when she gets there, she finds out that if she wants to be more than the flavor of the week, she's going to have to pay a price that may be way too high.
Otherwise by
Themes: Realistic Fiction, Poetry, Verse, Gender Equality, Sexuality, Coming of Age, Teen, Young Adult, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. A law has been passed. There will be no more genders. Everyone must appear gender neutral. No more boys. No more girls. Just ... Otherwise. Same bland clothes. Same fuzzy heads. "Spark" dreads the countdown leading up to the finality of the new law's passage. Her parents are for it. They're tired of conforming to society's standards. But they allow her to take off for a quick camping trip to gather her thoughts. At the campsite, she meets "Whistler." And the attraction is instant and mutual. But who is Whistler? And what is Whistler? Boy? Or girl? This gender-bending story in verse will make readers question everything they thought they knew about love, chemistry, and cultural norms. Just like prose, a novel in verse tells a story. But verse is unique because readers access the text through short "chapters," or poems. The varying lengths of the chapters are ideal for a struggling reader, giving them breaks to collect their thoughts, to imagine the characters in their mind's eye, and to set the scene--like a frame in a movie. The structure of poetry makes the books appear less intimidating, with plenty of airy white space. Moreover, the depth and substance conveyed in verse is every bit as deep and real as in a Gravel Road prose novel.
Teeny Little Grief Machines by
Themes: Realistic Fiction, Poetry, Verse, Depression, Self Harm, Death, Teen Angst, Teen, Young Adult, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Like watching a movie frame by frame, we watch Lexi come unglued in this novel in verse. She's alienated from school and family. Her father is in the county jail. She cannot connect with her chain-smoking stepmom. Her brother, Blaine, is trapped in his own autistic world. And her infant sister's death has sent her into a spiral of grief and rebellion. Bright, witty, and irreverent, Lexi tries to navigate the rocky transition from adolescent to young woman. Just like prose, a novel in verse tells a story. But verse is unique because readers access the text through short "chapters," or poems. The varying lengths of the chapters are ideal for a struggling reader, giving them breaks to collect their thoughts, to imagine the characters in their mind's eye, and to set the scene--like a frame in a movie. The structure of poetry makes the books appear less intimidating, with plenty of airy white space. Moreover, the depth and substance conveyed in verse is every bit as deep and real as in a Gravel Road prose novel.
A Boy Called Twister by
Themes: High School, Neighborhoods, Family, Loyalty, Friendship, Urban Teen Fiction, Gangs, Mystery, Suspense, Alcohol Abuse, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Written for young adults, the Urban Underground series confronts issues that are of great importance to teens, such as friendship, loyalty, drugs, gangs, abuse, urban blight, bullies, and self-esteem to name a few. More than entertainment, these books can be a powerful learning and coping tool when a struggling reader connects with credible characters and a compelling storyline. The highly readable style and mature topics will appeal to young adult readers of both sexes and encourage them to finish each eBook. Harriet Tubman HS Series - Kevin Walker will be a loner at Tubman High- he doesn't want anyone asking too many questions about his move from Texas. His terrible secret could destroy any chance of remaining anonymous. Running like the wind helps him forget his troubles, but his star turn on the track team brings a lot of attention.
Tobyn: the It Girl #4 by
Meet the Flyy Girls. The group of girls who seem like they can get away with anything. Veteran author Ashley Woodfolk pens a gorgeous and dynamic series of four Harlem high-schoolers, each facing a crossroads of friendship, family, and love. Tobyn Wolfe knows she's destined to be a rock star. She sings, she dances, and she's got that "It" factor. Her dreams are even closer within her reach when she meets Maybe Someday--an incredible all-female band--during a night out with her older sister, Devyn. Joining their band would be the perfect way to show off her amazing vocals. It's too bad her mom can't see this. She wants Tobyn to go to college and become a serious musician, not follow in Devyn's footsteps and wind up a struggling artist. Can Tobyn prove to her mom that she knows what's best, or will her dreams end up becoming a horrible nightmare? With simply stated text and compelling characters, Flyy Girls is a series that's perfect for readers of any level.
Heat Wave by
When their road trips takes a turn for disaster, these teens must rely on their instincts to survive. Marissa's favorite singer is coming to a nearby music festival, and Marissa can't wait to rock out with her friends Ben and T. Sure, some things might go wrong, but there's nothing a few road burritos can't fix. It's not until a blown tire strands them in the desert that Marissa realizes their weekend isn't the only thing in danger--their lives might be too.
Off Course by
When their road trips takes a turn for disaster, these teens must rely on their instincts to survive. Nora and her twin sister Livi are road tripping down the Pacific coast--Livi to interview at her dream school, Nora to finish her film school application. When Nora learns her favorite director may be shooting a monster movie nearby, she takes them more than a little off course. After an accident leaves their car in a river, can a group of friendly vampires help them survive?
Spinning Out by
When their road trips takes a turn for disaster, these teens must rely on their instincts to survive. CJ and Leo can't wait to spend their winter break skiing and snowboarding with their friends Alex and Katrina. But things aren't going quite as planned, as Alex and Katrina won't stop fighting about their college plans. And then the blizzard hits while they're driving up the mountain. Will they all be able to put aside their arguing in order to make it to safety?
Stranded by
When their road trips takes a turn for disaster, these teens must rely on their instincts to survive. Kevin and Jesse have different ideas of how to spend their weekend at Jesse's cabin. Kevin wants to hike and camp, while all Jesse wants to do is pig out and play video games. But after a car accident leaves them stranded, holding onto their differences may put them in danger. Will these friends be able to band together to survive?
Detained by
After getting caught while vandalizing his school, Max, an android student, is sent to detention. Tensions run high between the androids and humans there, but when a human boy, Oliver, stands up for Max, he starts to reconsider his negative views on humans. The two start an unlikely friendship, and now Max must choose between his own community and his new friend.
Escape! by
Four high school friends sign up for a TV escape-room competition, but they're assigned to a set that's actually a series of rooms. They have twelve hours to find a way out, but the faster they're able to do it, the higher their prize money will be. As the clues get harder and the time ticks by, tensions run high and confrontations occur. Soon the prize money isn't the only reason they're all desperate to escape.
The Ghost Runner by
There's more than just team superstition at play here. Ollie's best friend, Nate, has always been one step ahead of him--literally--on their cross country team. At the start of senior year, something seems off with Nate, but it's not until Nate gets hurt, bumping Ollie into the top rank on the team, that Ollie realizes what was wrong. There's a ghost that haunts the lead runner on the team--and now that ghost is coming after Ollie. Will Ollie be able to outrun the Ghost Runner and break the cycle once and for all?
The Island by
When you love a show, you jump at the chance to be on it, right? That's how Ethan felt when he signed up for a survival reality TV competition. But once he and the other nine contestants are left on an uninhabited island with no technology to help them, he realizes he's in over his head. The contestants must find food and shelter as well as compete in a series of tasks. In a show that's based on ruthless competition, he will somehow have to befriend some other contestants to help him if he wants to make it to the end.
Jammer Star by
Sixteen-year-old Robin Ellis (aka Robin CookieJars) wants to be the best jammer on her roller-derby team and maybe one day play for the Creek City Roller Derby All-Stars like her idol, Annie Mossity. But star junior player April Reid (aka April Powers) always seems to be one lap ahead. Until recently, that is. Robin has noticed that April has been losing a lot of weight, and her game is suffering. This may be Robin's chance to finally grab the MVP title. But her success may come at a very heavy cost.
On the Run by
In and out of juvie since he was thirteen, Ryan is running out of chances. This time, Ryan is determined to stay out for good. Being just a few months shy of eighteen means that next time he's picked up by the cops, he could end up in adult prison. But, after only a few hours on the outside, Ryan runs into his old crowd who are committing a break and enter. With nowhere to go and scared of being picked up again, Ryan goes on the run.
The Paranormal Playbook by
No matter how hard they work, Mary Joy's basketball team can't win a game. But after one of their losses, she and some of her teammates find an old playbook. They use a few of the new plays in their next game, and to everyone's surprise, crush their opponent. But soon each win is followed by an incident of bad luck for the players--a missing pet, a sprained ankle, a car accident--leading them to believe the playbook is responsible. Soon the team decides winning isn't worth the risk. But how can they stop the playbook before it hurts anyone else?
Riptide by
Big waves and competition with other surfers send friends Maya and Paige out to surf the notoriously dangerous and secluded Rippers Cove. Soon the big waves turn into a big storm, and a bad fall leaves Paige too injured to make it back to shore. The friends can ride out the storm on a sandbar, but Maya knows that she needs to get help for Paige right away. To make matters worse, they realize that shark-infested waters stand between them and the safety of the beach!
The Rookie Trap by
Molly is thrilled when she makes the varsity soccer team. One day before practice, the coach asks her to grab something from the equipment shed, which is on the other side of the school. On her way there, Molly notices another shed and checks if there's any equipment in it. But as soon as she steps in, the door closes and she finds herself trapped. Her teammates help her out, but they warn her never to go in the shed again. Legend says that those who enter it never come out. Can Molly find out the mystery behind the shed and finally put a stop to it?
Star-Crossed by
When android teens join humans in high school, nothing will ever be the same. When Alyssa, a human, and Reid, an android, are partnered to work on a class project, neither is happy. They've both heard stories from their families about the other group. But as they get to know each other, their earlier prejudices quickly disappear. It turns out they're more alike than different. When they start dating, their family members object. Alyssa and Reid must fight problems coming from both sides if they want to stay together.
The Team Curse by
For as long as Isaac could remember, the Middleton High baseball team hasn't won a single game. So when he tries out as a sophomore and makes the team, he's excited but not surprised. After the first pathetic losses of the season, Isaac starts to get frustrated--why aren't any of his teammates even trying to win? When he confronts them and threatens to quit, they let him in on the secret: the team has been trapped in a curse for generations. Isaac decides to do whatever it takes to put an end to the curse.
Whiteout by
With dreams of becoming a professional snowboarder on her mind, Jessa drags her younger brother Pax up the tricky slopes of a mountain, ignoring warnings of an approaching storm. She's having a great time riding the powder--until the storm everybody warned her about gets in the way. Now whiteout conditions make it too dangerous for them to continue. This would-be professional boarder must figure out how to get herself and her younger brother to safety before they both freeze to death.
Becoming Prince Charming by
Seventeen-year-old Mason is content with his slacker lifestyle. That is, until he learns his absentee mother is a member of the Evonian royal family. Suddenly, everything changes--Mason travels to Evonia, where he gets to know his mother and starts to fall for an enchanting Evonian girl. Soon Mason realizes that a little hard work might make his life as a royal more interesting than video games. An escapist coming-of-age story laced with romance and intrigue, this installment in the Suddenly Royal series will engage even the most reluctant readers.
Learning Seventeen by
New Hope Academy, or, as seventeen-year-old Jane Learning likes to call it, No Hope, is a Baptist reform school where Jane is currently being held captive. Of course, smart, sarcastic Jane has no interest in reforming, failing to see any benefit to pretending to play well with others. But then Hannah shows up, a gorgeous bad girl with fiery hair and an even stormier disposition. She shows Jane how to live a full and fulfilling life even when the world tells you you're wrong, and how to believe in a future outside the "prison" walls. Jane soon learns, though, that Hannah is quietly battling some demons of her own.
Getting the Brush Off by
Two years ago, sixteen-year-old Sydney Hart was kicked out of the prestigious Burke Academy when her mother could no longer afford the tuition. She lost a promising future in the arts, as well as her best friend, who didn't want to be seen with an art-academy reject. But now, without Burke's rigid structure, Sydney has found her true passion in performance painting and is busking on Halifax's boardwalk to earn enough money to go to art camp. After the police shut her down, Sydney learns her old school is hosting a "brush-off" speed-painting contest with a cash prize. Entering would mean facing her painful past, not to mention her former friend, who's also competing.
Graffiti by
Legend has it that couples who paint their names on the bridge at midnight will stay together forever, but those who break their promises will be cursed. Lucia doesn't believe in curses, but she has to wonder when couples around town have freak accidents after splitting up. Now her friend is going through a breakup and someone--or something--is threatening her. Can Lucia get to the bottom of it before someone gets hurt . . .or worse?
Heavy Freight by
Fifteen-year-old Maxwell Stone has been surviving and thriving in the tough part of East Vancouver by being smart and fast. But when a drug deal goes wrong, Max suddenly finds himself on the run from both the bad guys and the cops. Desperate to escape, Max impulsively decides to hop on a moving freight train. His first attempt to climb aboard fails, but at the last second a hand reaches down and pulls him in. Joseph has been riding the rails for years, and his tales inspire Max to take a journey to the last place he ever expected to go.
Labyrinth by
SuprSolvr has the opportunity to test a game set in a mechanical labyrinth by playing inside of it, which she's thrilled about. The guy she's partnered with? Not so much. But as they soon face robotic bugs, word puzzles, and obstacles, they realize that they must work together to reach the center of the labyrinth or risk being trapped in virtual reality forever.
Realm of Mystics by
When a girl wakes up in a virtual reality fantasy video game, she's sure this must be a mistake. She's not a gamer and she doesn't want to be here. Whether she likes it or not, she's now Em3ra1d_with_3nvy, one player in a four-player team whose mission is to defeat a dragon and rescue the realm's princess. In a game where she has no idea how to play, Em3ra1d_with_3nvy will have to learn to use magic in order to help her team win the game--or risk being trapped within it forever.
S. O. S. by
After a kayaking accident nearly kills Tyrell, he is glad to be home and recovering. However, one night at midnight, he sees a strange light flashing in the window of the abandoned factory down the road. The light is there again the next night, and it's signaling S.O.S. Tyrell tries to help the mysterious signaler, but when a scissors-wielding ghost girl appears, things start to get really creepy. What does the ghost want, and can Tyrell satisfy it without risking death?
The Zephyr Conspiracy by
In a virtual reality treasure hunt game, a gamer named Gadget is a steampunk pirate looking for her captain's lost treasure--a mysterious mechanical device. If she can find the scattered pieces that make up the device, she'll be released from the game. But the further she gets into it, the more Gadget worries she's in over her head. In a game where it's hard to know who's a real person and who's a non-player character, can Gadget trust anyone?
Across the Floor by
Luc Waldon always figured he knew what his passion was: football. He lives it, he breathes it--and he thinks he has what it takes to go all the way to the NFL. So when his football coach orders him to sign up for contemporary-dance classes to improve his game, Luc's less than thrilled. When he realizes that dance might actually be his true passion, he faces a tough decision. Is he willing to leave behind the field and a real shot at professional sports, and disappoint his parents, his coach and his teammates, in order to pursue a new dream?
Beat the Odds by
The prize: $10 million The rules: Be the first to complete ten tasks assigned by the Benefactor. Do not ask questions. Do not tell anyone what you're doing. Do not fail. The consequences: Unknown Ana has three choices: One, stay with her abusive foster parents and watch her little sister, Izzy, get hurt. Two, expose their abuse and risk being separated from Izzy. Or three, join the Contest, win the prize money, and escape together. No matter what Ana chooses, the odds are against her. But the Contest may turn out to be the most dangerous option of all.
Billboard Express by
Elle has come to Nashville to become a star. She has what it takes, but her agent and all the label executives want to change everything about her--her hair, her body, her clothes and, most important, her music. So Elle becomes a blond, sings about cookin' for her man and wears tiny shorts and revealing tank tops. Then a chance meeting with an established female songwriter makes Elle realize that she's paying too high a price for success. Billboard Expresscontinues the story that began in Rock the Boatby Sigmund Brouwer.
Fight or Flee by
Do the crime, do the time behind bars. But once you've been in, it can be tough to stay out. When Hinton Helsinger leaves the Youth Correctional Center, he's set on reforming his impulsive ways. But things at home have changed: his dad has been killed, his mom's remarried his uncle, and his uncle is the new kingpin of the family gang that controls the town's drug trade. Threatened by Hinton's return, Hinton's uncle hatches a sinister plot using Hinton's girlfriend, Olivia, as a pawn. As Hinton struggles between the impulse to avenge his dad's death and the desire to seek a way out of that corrupt life, he embarks on a downward spiral of revenge and madness from which he and those he loves are unlikely to escape. This modern twist on Shakespeare's Hamlet explores the themes of reform, revenge, and self-destruction.
Friend or Foe by
Do the crime, do the time behind bars. But once you've been in, it can be tough to stay out. Ian's band is finally taking off. But the band's front man and Ian's best friend, Orlando, can't catch a break as a black kid in their white town. Tension with a security guard lands both Ian and Orlando in jail, and when Orlando is held indefinitely, someone will need to take over the band until he gets out. When Orlando chooses Chase, the band's bassist, to step in, Ian is slighted. As Ian's resentment builds, he plots his revenge. One by one, he turns his bandmates against one another, with tragic results. As Ian holds his friends close and his enemies closer, no one can tell which is which--until it's too late. This modern twist on Shakespeare's Othello takes a gritty look at betrayal, revenge, and obsession.
On Guard by
Point guard Mercedes Morgan is on track to set the all-state record for three-pointers. She's even caught the attention of a big-time college recruiter. But her sister has fallen in with a gang from the old neighborhood, and a drive-by shooting lands her in a coma. Now their little brother might be headed down the same dangerous path. Can the star player help her family leave the past behind them while also saving her season, or will they always be on guard?
Stay in the Game by
The prize: $10 million The rules: Be the first to complete ten tasks assigned by the Benefactor. Do not ask questions. Do not tell anyone what you're doing. Do not fail. The consequences: Unknown James's grandpa is dying. An experimental treatment has a chance of saving him, but James's family can't afford it. Not unless James competes in the Contest. The rules are sketchy, and the tasks seem dangerous...and definitely wrong. James has the feeling this contest is about a lot more than the prize money. But he can't back out now--can he?
Tokyo Girl by
Piano tuner and jazz musician Frank Ryan is in Japan teaching bored housewives how to play piano. Then he gets a gig in a trendy underground bar and ends up ensnared with a young woman with a grudge and the crime boss who owns the bar. Drawn into Tokyo Girl's vendetta, Frank stumbles into an underworld where transgressions are paid for by the flash of a razor-sharp cleaver. And for a pianist, that's not a good thing. Tokyo Girlis the follow-up to Beethoven's Tenth, featuring reluctant sleuth Frank Ryan.
Back That Thing by
When relationship, family, and friend problems make life rough, the swoop-list girls must examine their lives and make positive changes. But can they handle the challenge of confronting their own mistakes?
Learning the Ropes by
Mandy dreams of a career in the circus, working as an aerialist who specializes in rope climbing. When she is accepted into the prestigious Montreal Circus College summer program, she feels that she is finally on her way to fulfilling her dreams. At circus camp she is befriended--and challenged--by young circus performers from around the world. Circus camp turns out to be a magical combination of work and play, but when a veteran aerialist is killed in a fall, Mandy must confront the reality of circus life.
Off the Grid by
Sixteen-year-old Cody was born and raised "off the grid" deep in the wilderness by idealistic parents. When his father becomes seriously ill, the family is forced to move into the city so he can get treatment. Attending high school for the first time, Cody is an oddity and has a hard time adjusting. He finds unlikely allies in DeMarco, an inner-city kid, and Ernest, a philosophical homeless man, and he begins a tentative friendship with Alexis. When he comes to DeMarco's defense in an altercation at school, Cody finds himself in trouble with the police. A second confrontation puts Cody in more trouble with the cops, and he is convinced he must escape to the family homestead or be arrested. But Cody is torn between fleeing the city or staying with his ailing father and facing whatever consequences come his way.
Rock the Boat by
Webb believes that if you want to reach your dreams, you have to live life loud. Bring the roof down. Rock the boat. Make sure that when you look back, you have no regrets. But when a shady music producer steals one of Webb's songs, Webb finds out how hard it is for a kid on his own in Nashville to get justice. With the help of an unlikely ally, Webb discovers that he has what it takes to succeed: talent, determination and some good friends.
Shimmy by
Lila has always wanted a career in belly dance, so she is thrilled when she is invited to join Dana Sajala's competitive and prestigious studio. But dancing at the new studio isn't quite what she expected. Dana Sajala is a tough teacher, and Lila finds the constant criticism stressful. On top of that, Lila misses the dancers from her old troupe, and a rift is developing between her and her best friend, Angela, who is not altogether sympathetic to Lila's struggles. Lila has always loved belly dance--the music, the costumes, the choreography--but when she realizes that none of it is as much fun as it used to be, she starts to question whether she has made the right choice.
Big Time by
Gerri waits outside all night to audition for Big Time, her favorite TV singing competition. She believes she has a shot at success, but when she's insulted by one of the judges and kicked out of the competition, she thinks she'll probably never sing again. After a teacher at her school asks her to join a choral club, Gerri reluctantly gets involved. Even though she can't read music and she doesn't know the other kids, she finds herself enjoying the group and learning a lot about music. A cute guy she met at the Big Timeauditions joins the group, and when they perform their unique mashups at an open-mic night, Gerri realizes there's more than one way to be a successful--and happy--singer!
Breathing Fire by
When Ally's mom dies, Ally is left with no family, no friends and no future. Put into foster care at the age of fifteen, she has less than $200 to her name and nothing left to lose. When Ally meets Tate, a busking fire breather, she starts to see a new life for herself as a street performer. Ally decides to run away from her foster home, but her problems follow her. Hiding her age, sleeping on the streets and avoiding fights with other buskers, Ally discovers that there's more to life as a fire-breathing busker than not getting burned.
Off Pointe by
When Meg's summer ballet program is canceled and her ballet teacher suggests she attend Camp Dance to learn new dance styles, Meg is devastated. Worse still, her teacher thinks she lacks stage presence and needs to connect more with her audience. At camp, Meg struggles to learn contemporary dance. A girl named Logan, who is jealous of Meg's ballet technique and her friendship with Nio, a cute contemporary dancer, makes Meg's life even more difficult. When Meg, Nio and Logan have to work together to create a piece for the final show, arguments threaten to ruin their dance. Unless they are able to overcome their differences, Meg's time at Camp Dance will have been a disaster from start to finish.
Skylark by
Angie lives in an old car with her brother and mother. Homeless after their father left to find work, the family struggles to stay together and live as normally as possible. It is difficult though. Between avoiding the police and finding new places to park each night, it is a constant struggle. When Angie discovers slam poetry, she finds a new way to express herself and find meaning and comfort in a confusing world.
Warm Up by
Jasmine used to love dance. Now she struggles to hold on to that love as her dance team trains for a big competition. Her teammates are bickering, and when their teacher suggests that Jasmine might not have what it takes to be on the team, Jasmine is ready to quit. At a particularly rough practice, she channels her anger into her moves, surprising everyone, including herself, with how well she dances. But the team is still falling apart, and it's up to Jasmine to figure out a way to get her teammates to work together and celebrate the joy of dance.
Bad Blood by
Themes: High School, Neighborhoods, Family, Loyalty, Friendship, Urban Teen Fiction, Family Relationships, Jealousy, Self-Esteem, Transformation, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Written for young adults, the Urban Underground series confronts issues that are of great importance to teens, such as friendship, loyalty, drugs, gangs, abuse, urban blight, bullies, and self-esteem to name a few. More than entertainment, these books can be a powerful learning and coping tool when a struggling reader connects with credible characters and a compelling storyline. The highly readable style and mature topics will appeal to young adult readers of both sexes and encourage them to finish each eBook. Cesar Chavez HS Series - Naomi's cousin, Carlotta Valencia, is coming to live with the Martinez family. And she is a handful--a spoiled brat with a chip on her shoulder. She is a flirt. She is brazen. She is promiscuous. But under the eye of the Martinez parents, she now has to do chores and homework. She's jealous of Naomi. And she has her eye on Ernesto. Then Clay. But Ernesto loves Naomi. And Clay loves Mira at least he finds out he truly loves his girlfriend when he takes Carlotta out; he wants an easy score. But he is spotted by Mira's friends and quickly tells Carlotta to get lost. He realizes he has too much to lose. After getting shot down again and again... embarrassed...deflated...Carlotta cleans up her act. She does her schoolwork. And she starts mentoring a freshman girl who she connects with. Carlotta learns that she has a lot going for her and a lot to offer...thanks to Naomi and Ernesto.
I'll Be There by
Themes: High School, Neighborhoods, Family, Loyalty, Friendship, Urban Teen Fiction, Teen Relationships, At-Risk Teens, Vandalism, Lying, Fiction, Teen, Young Adult, Chapter Book, Hi-Lo, Hi-Lo Books, Hi-Lo Solutions, High-Low Books, Hi-Low Books, ELL, EL, ESL, Struggling Learner, Struggling Reader, Special Education, SPED, Newcomers, Reading, Learning, Education, Educational, Educational Books. Written for young adults, the Urban Underground series confronts issues that are of great importance to teens, such as friendship, loyalty, drugs, gangs, abuse, urban blight, bullies, and self-esteem to name a few. More than entertainment, these books can be a powerful learning and coping tool when a struggling reader connects with credible characters and a compelling storyline. The highly readable style and mature topics will appeal to young adult readers of both sexes and encourage them to finish each eBook. Cesar Chavez HS Series - Ernesto and Naomi are mentoring two at-risk freshmen who've had it rough. Naomi's father isn't happy that she's hanging around at-risk kids, but Ernesto convinces him that the kids are fine. Meanwhile, Clay is up to his cruel tricks. Mira has taken him back, and his parents have rewarded his bad behavior with a new car. It's too hard to resist temptation; someone has let the air out of the new car's tires. Meanwhile, Mira's ex- and rebound, Kenny, is floored when Mira dumps him and takes Clay back. Kenny gets another kid to call Clay and accuse Mira of cheating. Clay is livid but doesn't lose his temper like he's done in the past. Is volatile Clay turning over a new leaf? Mira begs Ernesto to find out who made the call.
Last Cut by
Caitlin Myers's greatest ambition is to be a star, and she can outshine anyone at her school. But then Lianne comes to town and starts to give Caitlin a run for her money, even getting top billing in the school play. So when Caitlin's offered a bit role as the bikini girl in a low-budget slasher flick, she ignores the warning bells (and her parents), lies about her age, and takes the part. It's not long before Caitlin finds herself out of her element when it comes to bossy directors and experienced film crews. Her only way out is to fess up about her age, but if she does, she'll have to come clean to her parents, her friends, and her boyfriend about the things she's done.
Off Road by
Wyatt has spent most of the summer mountain biking with his best friend Tanka. But when the friends decide to test out a new trail, they face potentially deadly challenges. After a crash leaves them with only one working bike far from the marked trail, they must think quickly to find their way out of the woods before nightfall. How will they make it?
On Edge by
Trevor and Micah set out on what they think will be a fun day of rock climbing and hiking. But after Micah takes a bad fall, injuring himself in the process, the trip is off to a bad start. Things take another turn for the worse when Trevor gets bitten by a snake. The friends know they need to act fast...before their adventure turns deadly.
Push Back by
Sixteen-year-old Zaine Wyatt's mother walked out of his life when he was twelve, and he was kicked out of his aunt's house. After living on the streets and getting badly beaten up, he is back at his aunt's, but is angry and uncertain that he has a permanent place to live. When his mother breaks another promise to take him back, he flees and trashes a storage shed, injuring the owner as he runs away. To try to get the charges dropped, Zaine agrees to participate in a restorative justice program. He has to fix the damage, help out the owner and his disabled grandson, while avoiding being recruited to a gang.
Bridge by
José can't keep up. As the only English speaker in a family of undocumented immigrants, he handles everything from taking family members to the doctor to bargaining with the landlord. Plus he works two jobs. With all this responsibility, he's missing a lot of school. When he does make it, he falls asleep in class. José knows he has to turn things around if he wants to graduate from Rondo Alternative High School. Can he raise his grades enough to have a shot at college and a better life? Or will he be forced to drop out of school for good?
Fighting Words by
Myles McReary is trying to save up enough money to bring his family over from Ireland. And he's doing it the only way he knows: through bareknuckle boxing. Myles is one of the toughest young fighters at the Bowery's Woodrat Club. Even so, when the Woodrat arranges a match between Myles and Giancarlo Sperio, the best boxer in Harlem, Myles worries he's met his match. Myles knows he can't back down. If he does, he'll fail his family. So he turns to Father O'Carroll, a mysterious neighborhood priest. But Father O'Carroll's solution gives Will a whole new set of problems...