If I Stay by Gayle Forman
Recommended by: Ms. Schwoebel
Ms. Schwoebel, reviewing If I Stay, said that it was a very well-written book. It is about a decision that a young adult girl faces that will impact her life’s path completely. Ms. Schwoebel stated that it was very sad and emotional, and “you had to be prepared, but it was totally worth it!” She told me that she couldn’t put it down until the end.
Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson
Recommended by: Mrs. Guenther
Mrs. Guenther said, “As soon as Chains came out, I had to read it. I loved Laurie Halse Anderson’s work from Fever 1793, and she didn’t disappoint this time.” Chains is about two enslaved girls who were taught to read, and then were sold to another slave owner, even though they were supposed to be free. They then become spies because of their talents as readers. Mrs. Guenther also said, “This is a page-turner, and it gives you great historical information when you don’t even realize that you’re learning about history.” On a scale of 1 to 10, she rates Chains an 8.
The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings and Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea
Recommended by: Mrs. Gordon ’81
Mrs. Gordon states that The Yearling is a beautiful book with likeable characters, a unique setting in Florida, and a VERY sad ending. On a scale of of 1 to 10, she rates it a 9. Because of Mr. Terupt, on the other hand, takes place in a middle school, focusing on both students and teachers alike. It also has an excellent plot with lots of cliffhanger moments.