Staff Picks: Middle School and High School

Click on the book cover to read more about the book, see available editions, and to order.

The Agony of Alice

by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Reviewed by: Rebecca (Sebastopol)

From making friends to buying jeans, Alice will take readers on a true-to-life, laugh-out-loud adventure through the trials and triumphs of 6th grade. Fans can follow Alice through high school--not to be missed!

Addie on the Inside

by James Howe
Reviewed by: Emma (Sebastopol)

The latest sequel to The Misfits! Addie's story, told in poetry, goes past her tough talk and forceful opinions to explore who she really is--and what happens when that is challenged by her peers. Absolutely extraordinary. Check out Sebastopol in the acknowledgements!

Hush, Hush

by Becca Fitzpatrick
Reviewed by: Eden (Sebastopol)

For those who love the Twilight series, this is 20,000 times better! It is the same idea of a girl being intrigued by the dark and handsome guy with a dangerous edge. Filled with suspense, mystery, and forbidden love. One of my absolute favorites.

The Scorpio Races

by Maggie Stiefvater
Reviewed by: Emma (Sebastopol)

It's Hunger Games meets The Secret of Roan Inish in this marvelous and unpredictable new novel from the author of Shiver! Every year, the islanders of Thisby race deadly water-dwelling horses. Puck needs the prize money to save her family's house, and with the help of returning champion Sean, she becomes the first girl to enter the races. But Sean needs to win just as badly.

Little Brother

by Cory Doctorow
Reviewed by: Emma (Sebastopol)

EVERY teenager needs this book! In the wake of a terrorist attack on San Francisco, a group of teenaged hackers face off against Homeland Security. Reminiscent of George Orwell and Neal Stephenson. AWESOME.