Story of a Girl by Sara Zarr

Sara Zarr's Story of a Girl was just wonderful. From the the very first page she engages you through an emotional roller coster with a girl who is constantly berated by her past. This again sends a really positive message, through a relatable way, on how we always have the means to become the person that we want to be, regardless of our past and our families. Although these things shape us into the people we are, we do not have to let is control the path of our future. For many adolescents, the decisions we make at young ages seem to haunt us, when really it is only minuscule in the big picture. This book allows those who have a troubled past, or who just made bad decisions, see that with those who make "declarations" for us, we can do anything and be anyone.

Stupid Fast by Geoff Herbach

I really enjoyed reading this book. At first it was really hard for me to get into, which made me nervous because my first project was on it, but after I got used to his unique writing style, I really got wrapped up in this heart wrenching story of a boy, searching for his place in the world. My favorite thing about the book was how relatable it is and how perfect a read it would be for young readers. Although Felton's home story is a bit extreme compared to many, the conflict with family, friends, classmates, activities and the self are things that all people experience and can grasp onto. This book was awesome; and how cool that it was written by an MNSU Alum!