174 pages - Based on a true story.  As the Nazi regime rises to power Helmuth sees fault with their laws and tactics.  The story spans his life from age 3 to 18.  He is wise beyond his years.  He dares to seek the truth and report it to the German people.  Friends and neighbors, out of fear, would report any suspicious behaviors to the Nazi's.  How would you feel if your friend or neighbor told on you?        

272 pages - Jenna is seventeen years old. While recovering from an accident, Jenna discovers that all is not quite right with her thoughts and memories, or lack of them.  Her family has moved across the country and they seem to be in hiding.  She decides she wants to go to school.  Can you imagine WANTING to go to school!?  She meets some new friends who help her through adjusting to her new life.  Interesting topics arise to ponder such as, family, medical science, falling in love, and ethics.  You will be surprised throughout the book.  If you had to start your life over, where do you think you would want to live?  Why?    

349 pages -  The one who calls himself the Thief Lord keeps his mysterious identity and age even from the kids who follow him.  Hornet, Mosca, Riccio, and two brothers, Prosper and Bo all live together whereever they can find shelter, there is no adult to care for them.  To survive they are pick-pockets and thieves in the city of Venice.  When a private detective comes looking for Prosper and Bo their "family" is in jeopardy.  The story takes place during the winter months when staying warm is a novelty.  After I read the book, I had the chance to visit Venice.  It is truly a magnificent city, I felt like I had already been there!  From books you have read, what cities might you want to visit and why?         

273 pages - Told in the first-person by 13-year-old Steven.  Follow Steven through the trials and tribulations of being in eighth grade which, you may have already experienced or at some point will.  The entertainment of Steven's outlook on his life takes a turn when Jeffrey, Steven's younger brother, becomes ill.  Steven's escape is his drums.  If you have never gone through battling cancer with a loved one you will be grateful for the insight from this book.  What would be your escape?

304 pages - A look into military involvement in Iraq from 2003.  We see the "war" through the eyes of the main character, Birdy.  His insight and descriptions are touching and they leave you waiting for more.  A bit graphic in spots but that is reality.  If you have wondered about what is happening in Iraq and want to know what it is like for our troops this is a must read.  Do you know of anyone that has been stationed in Iraq?  Have they talked to you about their experiences?  Do you think the troop experiences in Vietnam were any different?  Have you read, Fallen Angels?

256 pages - Students in an inner-city school have dreams of getting into the Guiness Book of World Records.  Through the book we get to know the students involved and their families.  Each student has their own reasons for joining the Math Club, most are using it to escape from their everyday lives.  The story is told in first-person by each character in their own chapter(s).  These students have different expectations for their futures.  What are your expectations for your future?