The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo
"Our stories are not that different. We have a lot that unites us."
Ms. Acevedo creates a novel out of the free verse she started to write when she was in middle school. Click on the link to hear her describe the book in her own words.
The Hate You Give by Angie Thomas
One of the most popular books in the FHS Library for two years, also the fourth most challenged book in America in 2018. Rated one of the most important books you'll ever read by Epic Reads, It's the story of Starr, who is the only witness to her friend's shooting, she must come to terms with racism, prejudice, living her life and seeing both sides. Movie was released last year. The Guardian called the film "A Defiant Challenge to a Divided America."
Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell
Another very popular challenged book by author Rainbow Rowell. In 2013 John Green's New York Time's review compared Eleanor and Park to Romeo and Juliet, predicting it might last. The book is still going strong! It has everything: bullying, romance, fighting stereotypes, gay romance, overall: still flying off the shelves of FHS.
The Lines We Cross by Randa Abdel-Fattah
Mina had a long and dangerous journey from Afghanistan. Michael is in the same school, but is drawn to anti-immigrant rallies by his parents. He meets Mina across the protest lines. Mina has to protect her family and herself. Michael has to decide where he stands. Lines are drawn.
Project Semicolon edited by Amy Bleuel
The semicolon is a symbol chosen by the Suicide Awareness Organization to help millions get help for mental illness. This book is a collection of letters of survivors, people who suffered and reached out for help. You are not alone. It takes courage to get the help you need. More information about Project Semicolon.
Love, Hate & Other Filters by Samira Ahmed
American born Maya Aziz must choose between the life her parents expect for her: marrying a suitable older Muslim boy, attending a college close to home and following her parents' rituals vs. the dreams she has: going to film school and living in NYC, and maybe marrying a boy she's loved since grade school. How will she find the strength to survive, especially since there is so much Islamophobia in her world. More information about Love, Hate & Other Filters.
