And I can’t entirely blame them. These kids are picky readers partly because that’s the nature of a middle school student, but also because in too many school libraries there are, in fact, no good books. Those same libraries also run sadly short of any helpful Librarian able to produce something more interesting than Little Women (a classic, yes, but hardly high interest). Here are some of my secret weapons (I have personally read them all: guaranteed no snoozers) that have brought even the pickiest teenager to ask, “Hey, do you have another book like this?”

Peak by Roland Smith. This was a blind-faith pick out of the Scholastic catalog, but it’s a great book. From the opening scene, where Peak gets nabbed by the US Air Force climbing to the top of a NYC skyscraper, the action keeps right on going as Peak and his shady father attempt to climb mount Everest. Not everyone makes it to the top!

Drums, Girls and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick. For the kid who isn’t so into dragons, wizzards,  or vampire love stories,  this story will make ‘em cry. Steven is a normal teenager, until his annoying younger brother is diagnosed with Leukemia and his family falls apart. A wonderful book that will peirce even the toughest teen ‘tude.

Percy Jackson and The Olympians Series by Rick Riordan (begins with the Lightning Thief).  Percy Jackson gets a huge surprise, he is a direct descendant from the ancient Greek Gods, and retains echos of  their powers.  He and a band of other similarly-powered kids take ‘em all on! Great characters all around. This book comes with the glowing recomendation from Bret in 6th grade: “This is the best book ever!”

Maximum Ride Series by James Patterson (Begins with The Angel Experiment). This one is fun for grown-ups as well as kids. Max and her friends are genetic experiments, and are on the run after busting out of a research facility. I always tell kids: “Come talk to me after you get to the restaurant scene. You won’t believe it.” And you really won’t.