Here's a wealth of excellent books that explore the here and now, some just-the-facts-ma'am realistic and some more fantastical--pick and choose what you like.
CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 1, 2012
"An uplifting story that convincingly celebrates the power of perseverance. (Fiction. 14 & up)"
Two unlikely teens find a connection despite the reluctance of one and the vastly different life obstacles they confront.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 9, 2012
"An uncommon (to say the least) coming-of-age, retraced with well-deserved pride but not self-aggrandizement, and as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. (endnotes, bibliography [not seen]) (Memoir. 14-18)"
Selecting high and low points from his experiences as a child, college student, teacher, refugee-camp worker, amateur boxer, Rhodes scholar, Navy SEAL and worker with disabled vets, Greitens both charts his philosophical evolution and challenges young readers to think about "a better way to walk in the world."
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 16, 2012
"Though the portrayal of Rob's deteriorating mental state is raw and often uncomfortable, in the end, the honest, uncensored storytelling makes this a tale that will stay with readers long after the final page is turned. (Fiction. 14 & up)"
A dark and dangerous thrill ride pushes teen readers to the brink of their comfort zones when it comes to issues of love, lust, politics, family and war.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 16, 2012
"Aside from the too-anxious-to-eat valorization, fresh as a daisy and sharp as a tack. (Fiction. 12-17)"
Biting wit makes this quest for suburban normalcy in the face of depression and anxiety both laugh-out-loud funny and immensely intelligent.
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CHILDREN'S
Released: Oct. 23, 2012
"Quite possibly the best teen novel featuring a girl questioning her sexuality written in years. (Fiction. 14 & up)"
CHILDREN'S
Released: Dec. 11, 2012
"The exactly right conclusion eschews easy resolution, though there's plenty of hope as they flounder into the future. (Fiction. 14 & up)"