How We Roll by Natasha Friend

When Quinn develops alopecia and loses all her hair, her friends gradually turn on her. At the same time, Nick is slowly pushing all his friends away after losing his legs in a snowmobiling accident. Then Quinn’s family moves so her autistic brother can attend a special school. Quinn hopes for a new start and she is drawn to Nick because she understands some of his feelings. But will Quinn and Nick be able to trust each other enough to be friends?

In How We Roll, Natasha Friend takes a sensitive look at the trials of dealing with a new disability as a teen. Her characterization is realistic and deep as she covers a variety of topics for teen readers. This is a well written and thoughtful look at some hard issues and is a good mind expanding read.

Recommended ages--12 and up

The Beautiful by Renee Ahdieh

In 1872, Celine Rousseau flees from Paris to New Orleans in order to escape her tragic past. She tries to start a new life in service to the Ursuline Convent. However, Celine soon finds herself drawn into the underworld of the La Cour des Lions. A series of gruesome murders seems to follow Celine and soon she worries about everyone close to her. Will life in New Orleans prove more dangerous than Paris?

The Beautiful is an alternate history of New Orleans--one where the paranormal is alive and real and danger lurks around every corner. The story is exciting and a good read for lovers of adventure and fantasy. Celine and her friends are interesting characters and the world building is solid and makes for a good escape. Even with the adventure, the violence and sex is kept to a minimum, making this an appropriate novel for all teen readers.

Recommended ages--13 and up

Lucky Few by Kathryn Ormsbee

Stevie Hart has never fit in, but she’s okay with that. She enjoys homeschool and her political work with the Springs for Tomorrow Alliance. And even if it isn’t typical teenage stuff, Stevie and her best friend Sanger know how to have fun. But when Max Garza moves in next door, Stevie’s comfortable life starts to unravel. Max convinces Stevie and Sanger to help him with his list: 23 Ways to Fake My Death Without Dying. Unfortunately, as Stevie grows closer to Max, it is harder for her to handle his brushes with death.

Lucky Few is a book that swings between humorous and profound. It looks at some atypical teens with some typical teenage concerns. Readers will relate to the characters on many levels while still having their world expanded. It is a good read for any teens that may have trouble fitting in and just want to be appreciated for who they are.

Recommended ages--13 and up