Build a Better World
For Teen Readers
This recommended reading list provides a broad list of books related to this summer’s theme of construction and recycling. This list includes audio, braille, and large print titles and is recommended for those reading at a senior and older reading levels.
To order any of these titles, contact the library by email, mail or phone. You may also request these titles online through WolfPAC. Identification numbers for braille books begin with BR, large print books begin with LP, and audiobooks begin with DB or DBC. All audiobooks and available braille books listed are linked to the Braille and Audio Reading Download site (BARD) for downloading.
Senior High
Before I Die by Jenny Downham
LP001916
A terminally ill teenaged girl makes and carries out a list of things to do before she dies. Some strong language and some explicit descriptions of sex. 2007. Set in 16 pt. Plantin.
Burger Wuss by Matthew Anderson
DB050325
Read by Rick Rohan. Reading time: 4 hours, 40 minutes.
Anthony, nice guy and doormat, seeks revenge after he sees his girlfriend, Diana, kissing cool guy Turner at a party. Anthony takes a job at the fast food restaurant where Turner is a supervisor and concocts a scheme involving rivalry with their competitor, Burger Queen. 1999.
Deadline by Chris Crutcher
BR017545; 2 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2.
DB065481
Read by Mark Ashby. Reading time: 6 hours, 26 minutes.
Eighteen-year-old Ben Wolf hides his terminal illness from family and friends during his senior year of high school. Since he is now able to live without fearing consequences, Ben allows himself to fall in love, argue with a teacher, and play football. Some strong language. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2009-2010. 2007.
Feed by M. T. Anderson
BR050849; web-braille not available.
In a future where most people have computer implants in their heads to control their environment, a boy meets an unusual girl who is in serious trouble. Strong language. National Book Award finalist. 2002.
How to Build a House by Dana Reinhardt
DB068388
Read by Jill Fox. Reading time: 5 hours, 42 minutes.
Seventeen-year-old Harper's Los Angeles family has been torn apart by a divorce that separated Harper from her beloved stepmother and stepsisters. To resurrect other damaged families and temporarily escape her own, Harper spends the summer helping to rebuild a tornado-ravaged Tennessee community. Some strong language. 2008.
Memoirs of a Teenage Amnesiac by Gabrielle Zevin
DB065723
Read by Mare Trevathan. Reading time: 6 hours, 40 minutes.
A fall leaves sixteen-year-old Naomi with no memory of the past four years. She discovers that her parents are divorced, her father is engaged, she has a boyfriend and classmates she can't remember, and she must form a new identity for herself. Some strong language. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2009-2010. 2007.
Monster by Walter Myers
BR012515; 1 volume of braille. Volume 1.
DB056569
LP001456
Read by Christopher Walker. Reading time: 3 hours, 3 minutes.
Sixteen-year-old Steve Harmon sits in jail accused of being a lookout in a deadly robbery. An aspiring filmmaker, Steve reviews his time in jail as a movie script. He wonders if he has become the monster that the prosecutor has made him out to be. Coretta Scott King honor award and Printz Award, 2000, National Book Award. 1999.
Ship Breaker series by Paolo Bacigalupi
Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi
DB071441
Read by Kristin Allison. Reading time: 7 hours, 8 minutes.
Teenaged Nailer scavenges precious copper wiring from grounded oil tankers with his crewmates, but when he finds a beached clipper ship and a beautiful girl trapped inside, he must decide whether to strip the materials or rescue the girl. Ship Breaker series, book 1. Printz Award 2011. Some strong language. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2013-2014. 2010.
The Drowned Cities by Paolo Bacigalupi
DB074636
Read by Joshua Swanson. Reading time: 9 hours, 58 minutes.
In a dark, future America torn by unending civil wars, orphans Mahlia and Mouse barely escape the Drowned Cities. But soon their safety is threatened and Mahlia risks all to save Mouse. Ship Breaker series, book 2. Some violence. Commercial audiobook. 2012.
Uglies series by Scott Westerfeld
Uglies by Scott Westerfeld
DB061639
LP001862
Read by Barbara Pinolini. Reading time: 9 hours, 47 minutes.
Tally, at age sixteen, is required to undergo a surgical procedure that would turn her into a beauty. But Tally's new friend, Shay, refuses the operation and runs away. The authorities insist that unless Tally finds Shay, she can't become beautiful. Uglies series, book 1. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2006-2007. 2005.
Pretties by Scott Westerfeld
DB062180
LP001899
Read by Barbara Pinolini. Reading time: 9 hours, 1 minute.
Tally has been turned into a pretty by the authorities but is deliberately brain damaged in the process. Tally tests a new drug invented by the renegade uglies to counteract the surgery. She escapes the city, only to be recaptured. Uglies series, book 2. 2005.
Specials by Scott Westerfeld
DB062890
LP001734
Read by Barbara Pinolini. Reading time: 8 hours, 40 minutes.
Fifteen-year-old Tally, her boyfriend Zane, and their boss Shay have been reconstructed into super-strong paramilitary "specials." When they are sent to capture rebels who want to return to an unaltered state of mind, part of Tally wants to resist her programming. Uglies series, book 3. 2006.
Extras by Scott Westerfeld
DB065454
LP001900
Read by Mary Kane. Reading time: 9 hours.
After Tally Youngblood's defeat of a strict regime in society becomes a popularity game. Fifteen-year-old "extra" Aya wants to be famous and joins a girl clique that courts death with dangerous stunts. But the "inhumans" kidnap the girls to protect a weapon. Uglies series, book 4. 2007.
What My Girlfriend Doesn't Know by Sonya Sones
BR017468; 2 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2.
Fourteen-year-old Sophie describes her life in prose poems. She discusses her search for Mr. Right, her unhappy parents, her school activities, and her friends, Grace and Rachel. Uncontracted braille. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2003-2004. 2001.
Senior High and Older
The 100 by Kass Morgan
DB077217
Read by Phoebe Strole. Reading time: 7 hours, 18 minutes.
Years after humanity abandoned toxic Earth, a high-stakes mission sends one hundred juvenile delinquents to recolonize the planet. A brutal crash landing leaves the teens fighting to survive--and to learn to trust and even love again. The 100 series, book 1. Unrated. Commercial audiobook. 2013.
1984 by George Orwell
BR001614; web-braille not available.
BR010312; 3 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3.
DB025710 (Spanish)
DB034268
DB073474
LP001220
LP001795
Read by Maria del Carmen Siccardi. Reading time: 14 hours, 42 minutes.
Read by Andy Pyle. Reading time: 11 hours, 15 minutes.
Read by Andy Pyle. Reading time: 13 hours, 56 minutes.
A satirical, frightening novel about a future time under a totalitarian regime, where the people believe ignorance is strength and war is peace. For high school and older readers. With a foreword by Thomas Pynchon and an afterword by Erich Fromm. 1949.
All American Boys by Jason Reynolds
DB083370
Read by Gary Telles. Reading time: 8 hours, 3 minutes.
When Rashad is mistakenly accused of stealing a bag of chips, classmate Quinn witnesses his brutal beating at the hands of a police officer who happens to be the older brother of his best friend. Strong language and some violence. 2015.
Birthright series by Gabrielle Zevin
All These Things I've Done by Gabrielle Zevin
BR019718; 4 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3. Volume 4.
DBC05454
Read by Grace Rogers. Reading time: 10 hours, 20 minutes.
In a dystopian future where chocolate and caffeine are contraband, teenage cellphone use is illegal, and water and paper are carefully rationed, sixteen-year-old Anya Balanchine finds herself thrust unwillingly into the spotlight as heir apparent to an important New York City crime family. Some violence and some strong language. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2013-2014.
Because It Is My Blood by Gabrielle Zevin
BR019765; 4 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3. Volume 4.
2083. After Anya Balanchine is released from the Liberty Children's Facility, where she was detained on weapons-possession charges, she tries to move on. But when old friends start calling in debts, a life of crime beckons. Birthright series, book 2. Some violence and some strong language. 2012.
And We Stay by Jenny Hubbard
DB080628
Read by Erin Spencer. Reading time: 5 hours, 55 minutes.
Sent to an Amherst, Massachusetts, boarding school after her ex-boyfriend shoots himself, seventeen-year-old Emily expresses herself through poetry as she relives their relationship, copes with her guilt, and begins to heal. Descriptions of sex and some strong language. Commercial audiobook. 2014.
Ashes, Ashes by Jo Treggiari
DB074353
Read by Theresa Conkin. Reading time: 9 hours, 11 minutes.
In a future world devastated by illness and environmental catastrophes, Lucy "Lucky" Holloway lives alone. But when she befriends a group of survivors, she faces a new threat--the Sweepers, who kidnap healthy individuals to experiment on. Some violence. 2011.
Ashfall series by Mike Mullin
Ashfall by Mike Mullin
DB076092
Read by Mark Delgado. Reading time: 9 hours, 36 minutes.
After the Yellowstone super volcano erupts--destroying his city and its surroundings--fifteen-year-old Alex journeys from Iowa to Illinois, searching for his parents and sister. To survive, he must adjust to the transformed landscape and new society. Ashfall trilogy, book 1. Some violence and some strong language. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2013-2014. 2010.
Ashen Winter by Mike Mullin
DB076173
Read by Mark Delgado. Reading time: 11 hours, 10 minutes.
More than six months after the eruption of the Yellowstone volcano, Alex and Darla retrace their steps to Iowa, hoping to find Alex's parents. But their journey becomes perilous as fighting erupts over dwindling resources. Ashfall trilogy, book 2. Violence. 2012.
Sunrise by Mike Mullin
DB079416
Read by Mark Delgado. Reading time: 10 hours, 27 minutes.
Nearly a year after the eruption of the Yellowstone volcano, survival has become harder than ever and Alex and Darla must risk everything to try to create a community that can withstand the ongoing disaster. Ashfall trilogy, book 3. 2014.
Beauty Queens by Libba Bray
DB074169
Read by Mare Trevathan. Reading time: 11 hours, 56 minutes.
After their plane crashes and strands them on an island, the fifty beauty contestants for the Miss Teen Dream Pageant channel their talents into surviving. But the arrival of some hot reality-television pirates adds new complications. Descriptions of sex and some strong language. 2011.
Beyond Magenta: Transgender Teens Speak Out by Susan Kuklin
DB078523
Read by Jennifer Hubbard. Reading time: 5 hours, 47 minutes.
Collection of six interviews with transgender teens. Recounts their experiences before, during, and after the personal acknowledgment of their gender preference. Includes resources, questions and answers with the clinical director of a health outreach to teens program, and more. Some descriptions of sex. 2014.
Blind by Rachel DeWoskin
DB079520
Read by Annalie Gernert. Reading time: 10 hours, 42 minutes.
After a horrific accident leaves her blind, fifteen-year-old Emma, one of seven children, eagerly starts high school as a sophomore. She finds that nearly everything has changed--sometimes for the better. Commercial audiobook. 2014.
Born Confused by Tanuja Desai Hidier
DB055988
Read by Kimberly Schraf. Reading time: 17 hours, 52 minutes.
Dimple Lala, born in America to parents from India, suffers from an identity crisis and growing pains during her seventeenth summer. She must contend with her best friend Gwyn, who is trying to usurp her heritage--and a guy's attentions. Some strong language. 2002.
Boys Don't Knit (In Public) by Tim Easton
DB082111
Read by Graham Halstead. Reading time: 6 hours, 47 minutes.
After a brush with the law, Ben, a dyed-in-the-wool worrier, must take up a new hobby as a condition of probation and chooses knitting. Amazed and conflicted by his own skill, Ben strives to keep his talent a secret. Some strong language. 2015.
Boy Who Harnessed the Wind: Creating Currents of Electricity and Hope by William Kamkwamba
DB072673
Read by Joh Huffman. Reading time: 11 hours, 4 minutes.
Memoir of Malawi youth William, a school dropout who was inspired by a library book to build the first windmill in his village. Describes growing up on a farm without electricity, surviving famine, recycling scraps into a windmill to generate power, and inspiring others. Alex Award. 2009.
Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
BR011922; 2 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2.
DB047108
LP050015
Read by James DeLotel. Reading time: 8 hours, 35 minutes.
A satire set in a future technocratic society in which people are rigidly classified by the state and kept happy by a government-administered drug. When two bureaucrats, Lenina and Bernard, travel to a "savage" reservation, they "rescue" a woman and her adult son, abandoned long ago, and return them to civilization.
The Crossover by Kwame Alexander
DB079528
Read by Bob Moore. Reading time: 1 hour, 58 minutes.
Twin fourteen-year-old basketball stars Josh and Jordan wrestle with highs and lows on and off the court, as their father ignores his declining health. Told in hip-hop style verse. 2014.
Delirium series by Lauren Oliver
Delirium by Lauren Oliver
DB072820
Read by Erin Jones. Reading time: 11 hours, 8 minutes.
Lena eagerly anticipates the government-mandated cure that prevents the delirium of love and leads to a safe, predictable, and happy life. But when Lena's diagnostic evaluation is interrupted by a protest, her greatest fear comes true--she falls in love. Delirium series, book 1. Some violence and some strong language. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2013-2014. 2011.
Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver
DB074331
Read by Erin Jones. Reading time: 10 hours.
Lena joins the resistance fighters after the horrific events in Delirium. While on a mission to observe the oppressive Deliria-Free America group, she meets Julian, the son of the organization's founder. Delirium series, book 2. Some violence and some strong language. 2012.
Requiem by Lauren Oliver
DB076276
Read by Erin Jones. Reading time: 10 hours, 37 minutes.
Alex's return throws Lena for a loop, especially with her growing feelings for Julian. Meanwhile, Hana--cured of the ability to love--prepares for her upcoming marriage to the city's new mayor. Some violence and some strong language. Delirium series, book 3. 2013.
The Diary of a Young Girl: The Definitive Edition by Anne Frank
BR010113; 3 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3.
DB040424
LP000143
Read by Suzanne Toren. Reading time: 9 hours, 30 minutes.
This notebook kept by a German-born Jewish girl includes material that was omitted from the first edition in 1947. Begun on her thirteenth birthday, the diary is a personal, sometimes humorous, account of years spent with her family in a Dutch attic hiding from the Nazis. After Anne heard a radio appeal about the importance of such papers, she expanded the scope of her entries.
Dying to Know You by Aidan Chambers
DB075634
Read by John Haag. Reading time: 5 hours, 50 minutes.
When his girlfriend Fiorella asks eighteen-year-old Karl, who is dyslexic, to write a letter revealing his inner secrets, Karl approaches a novelist for help. But Karl's inability to be honest with Fiorella has unintended consequences. Some strong language and some descriptions of sex. 2012.
Earth Girl; Earth Star; Earth Flight by Janey Edwards
DB082663
Read by Margaret Strom. Reading time: 39 hours, 55 minutes.
Abandoned and stuck on Earth because of her inability to survive on other planets, Jarra crafts a fake background for herself to join a class of otherworld students who are excavating the dangerous ruins of the old cities. Violence. 2014.
Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon
DB082468
Read by Robbie Daymond. Reading time: 6 hours, 46 minutes.
Madeline has severe combined immunodeficiency and is literally allergic to the outside world. When a new family moves in next door, she and neighbor Olly begin a complicated romance that challenges everything she's ever known. Commercial audiobook. 2015.
The Eye of Minds by James Dashner
BR020329; 3 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3.
DB077516
Read by Bill Hensel. Reading time: 7 hours, 44 minutes.
After Michael fails to save a fellow player from killing herself both in and out of the virtual game Lifeblood, he and his best friends--Bryson and Sarah--follow up on her dying warnings that hacker Kaine is holding players hostage inside of VirtNet. Mortality Doctrine series, book 1. Violence. 2013.
Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
BR008799; web-braille not available.
BR015332; 2 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2.
DB034963
DB067981 (Spanish)
LP000838
Read by Jeff Halberstady. Reading time: 5 hours, 29 minutes.
Read by María Pino. Reading time: 5 hours, 43 minutes.
Social satire set in the future, when owning or reading books is a crime. Guy Montag, the fireman-hero, becomes a fugitive when he succumbs to temptation. Some strong language.
Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
DB077545
LP002644
Read by Abigail Maupin. Reading time: 11 hours, 55 minutes.
Eighteen-year-old Cath's adoration of fantasy character Simon Snow leads to her penning a fanfiction story that is popular online. Offline, shy Cath is out of her comfort zone at her new college--until romance finds her. Some strong language and some descriptions of sex. 2013.
The Fangirl's Guide to the Galaxy: A Handbook for Girl Geeks by Sam Maggs
BR020937; 2 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2.
DB081634
Read by Jessica Almasy. Reading time: 5 hours, 6 minutes.
Associate editor for the pop culture website "The Mary Sue" discusses what it means to be a fan of things that tend to presume a white and male orientation. Provides tips for those beginning to explore fandoms, and examines the intersection of feminism and fandom. Some strong language. Commercial audiobook. 2015.
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
DB074112
DB077980 (Spanish)
LP002278
Read by Kate Rudd. Reading time: 7 hours, 16 minutes.
Read by Silvia Sierra. Reading time: 8 hours, 36 minutes.
A miracle drug may have given sixteen-year-old cancer patient Hazel a few more years, but she is still depressed. Then Hazel meets cute Augustus during a support-group meeting and her world shifts in unexpected and inspiring ways. Some strong language. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2014-2015. Commercial audiobook. 2012.
Feed by M. T. Anderson
DB055687
Read by Christopher Walker. Reading time: 5 hours, 18 minutes.
In the future, most people have computer implants in their heads streaming information. Titus has had his since birth, while home-schooled Violet received hers later. When the "feed" is attacked by a hacker, Titus's system shortly recovers but Violet's continues to malfunction. Strong language. National Book Award finalist. 2002.
Forest of Hands and Teeth series by Carrie Ryan
The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan
BR018828; 3 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3.
DB069192
Read by Mary Kane. Reading time: 8 hours, 11 minutes.
Mary seeks knowledge of the world beyond the village's protective fences and the surrounding forest containing the "Unconsecrated"--an aggressive, formerly dead, flesh-eating people. When outsider Gabrielle enters the village, Mary wonders about the Sisterhood's secrets and plans for escape. Forest of Hands and Teeth series, book 1. Some violence. 2009.
The Dead-Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan
BR019078; 3 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3.
DB071614
Read by Mary Kane. Reading time: 10 hours, 40 minutes.
Gabry lives a quiet life in a town secure from, but hemmed in by, Mudo--the hungry living dead. Her mother Mary's secrets and a cult of religious zealots threaten to disrupt her world. Forest of Hands and Teeth series, book 2. Violence. 2010.
The Dark and Hollow Places by Carrie Ryan
BR019384; 3 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3.
DB073607
Read by Mary Kane. Reading time: 9 hours, 41 minutes.
Annah waits alone for Elias to return and listens to the moaning of the Dark City dying around her, while longing to find her way back home to her family. Forest of Hands and Teeth series, book 3. Sequel to The Dead-Tossed Waves. Some violence and some strong language. 2011.
The Girl From the Well by Rin Chupeco
DB080023
Read by Julie-Ann Elliott. Reading time: 8 hours, 12 minutes.
Okiku has wandered the world for centuries, freeing the innocent ghosts and taking the lives of killers. But when she meets a moody teen, she knows he needs to be freed from the demonic malevolence that clings to him. Some violence and some strong language. 2014.
Girls Like Us by Gail Giles
BR020605; 2 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2.
DB080270
Read by Jennifer Hubbard. Reading time: 3 hours, 45 minutes.
Graduates of their school's special-education program, Quincy and Biddy are placed together in their first independent apartment and begin new jobs. Their adult status comes with challenges, but they find common ground and discover a strong friendship. Some violence and some strong language. 2014.
Grace, Gold and Glory: My Leap of Faith by Gabrielle Douglas
DB076347
Read by Jill Fox. Reading time: 5 hours, 26 minutes.
Autobiography of Olympic gold-medal gymnast Gabrielle Douglas. Recounts her early life in Virginia, her professional training in Iowa, and the sacrifices she and her family made to support her dream. Credits her faith and family for her success at the 2012 London games. 2012.
How It Went Down by Kekla Magoon
BR020666; 3 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3.
DB080691
Read by Erin Jones. Reading time: 6 hours, 42 minutes.
When sixteen-year-old Tariq Johnson is shot to death, his community is in an uproar because Tariq was black and the shooter, Jack Franklin, is white. In the aftermath everyone has their own account of what happened. Violence and strong language. 2014.
I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai
DB077454
DB080951 (Spanish)
Read by Archie Panjabi. Reading time: 9 hours, 57 minutes.
Read by María Pino. Reading time: 11 hours, 13 minutes.
Memoir of Pakistani teenager Malala Yousafzai (born 1997), who was the target of an assassination attempt by the Taliban in October 2012. Details her family's crusade for girls' education, the campaign of intimidation that culminated in her shooting, and her recovery. Violence. Commercial audiobook. Bestseller. 2013.
Knockout Games by G. Neri
DB079635
Read by Erin Jones. Reading time: 7 hours, 23 minutes.
As a gang of urban teenagers known as the TKO Club makes random attacks on bystanders, Erica, who is dating the gang leader, wrestles with her dark side and her good-kid identity. Violence and strong language. 2014.
Laughing at My Nightmare by Shane Burcaw
BR020816; 2 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2.
DB081567
Read by Alec Volz. Reading time: 6 hours, 18 minutes.
Burcaw describes the challenges he faces as a twenty-year-old with spinal muscular atrophy--from awkward handshakes to trying to find a girlfriend, and everything in between. Some strong language. 2014.
Legend series by Marie Lu
Legend by Marie Lu
DB074825
LP002229
Read by Anne Hancock. Reading time: 8 hours, 28 minutes.
In the distant future, North America has split into two warring nations. Two fifteen-year-olds--Day, a famous criminal, and June, a soldier prodigy sent to capture Day--discover they have a common enemy. Legend series, book 1. Some violence and some strong language.Truman award nominee, 2013-2014. 2011.
Prodigy by Marie Lu
DB076355
LP002276
Read by Theresa Conkrin. Reading time: 11 hours, 14 minutes.
June--no longer the Republic's celebrated prodigy--is on the run with Day. But when the Republic government realigns, the rebel Patriots need June and Day to go on a dangerous mission. Legend series, book 2. Some violence and some strong language. 2013.
Champion by Marie Lu
DB077806
LP002431
Read by Theresa Conkin. Reading time: 11 hours, 35 minutes.
A new, terrifying plague outbreak threatens the peace treaty between the Republic and the Colonies. After eight months apart former soldier June and former criminal Day are reunited to prevent a war. Sequel to Prodigy. Some violence and some strong language. 2013.
Matched series by Allyson Condie
Matched by Allyson Condie
DB073525
LP002141
Read by Erin Jones. Reading time: 8 hours, 40 minutes.
In a supposedly perfect future world, bureaucrats determine which young adults will marry in a process called the Matching. Cassia is delighted when she is paired with her best friend Xander. Then a different, forbidden boy appears on Cassia's datacard. Matched series, book 1. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2012-2013. 2010.
Crossed by Allyson Condie
DB074034
LP002280
Read by Erin Jones. Reading time: 8 hours, 18 minutes.
Cassia sacrifices everything and works her way to the Outer Provinces in search of Ky. But she soon learns shocking truths about the dystopian Society and longs for the promise of rebellion. Matched series, book 2. 2011.
Reached by Allyson Condie
DB076047
LP002281
Read by Erin Jones. Reading time: 12 hours, 2 minutes.
Though separated, Cassia, Xander, and Ky all work for the Rising, a group plotting to overthrow the oppressive government. Success seems near--until a plague emerges, and they discover that not all of them are immune. Matched trilogy, book 3. 2012.
Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ranson Riggs
DB075853
LP002274
Read by Joe Peck. Reading time: 9 hours, 50 minutes.
A family tragedy sends sixteen-year-old American Jacob on a journey to a remote island off the coast of Wales. There he discovers the ruins of an old orphanage that was home to peculiar--and possibly dangerous--children. Miss Peregrine's Peculiar Children series, book 1. Some violence and some strong language. 2011.
More Happy than Not by Adam Silvera
DB082411
Read by Alec Volz. Reading time: 8 hours, 25 minutes.
After enduring his father's suicide, his own suicide attempt, broken friendships, and more in the Bronx projects, Aaron considers the Leteo Institute's memory-alteration procedure. But then a new friendship with Thomas turns to unrequited love. Strong language and some violence. 2015.
Openly Straight by Bill Konigsberg
DB077101
Read by Joe Peck. Reading time: 8 hours, 59 minutes.
Things have worked out well for Rafe since he came out in eighth grade, but he doesn't like being known as the gay guy. He transfers to a boarding school where no one knows him, but things get complicated. Some strong language. 2013.
Orleans by Sherri Smith
BR019878; 3 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3.
DB076282
Read by Colleen Delany. Reading time: 8 hours, 20 minutes.
2056. After a string of hurricanes destroyed the southern states, Delta fever spread and a quarantined zone was erected. Fen and her tribe struggle to survive in the separated New Orleans; then an ambush and a baby further complicate things. Some violence. 2013.
Otherbound by Corinne Duyvis
DB079482
Read by Jill Fox. Reading time: 10 hours, 42 minutes.
Seventeen-year-old Nolan finds that every time he closes his eyes, he is drawn into the body of Amara--a mute servant girl from another world. And Amara's life is growing increasingly dangerous. Some violence and some strong language. 2014.
Pioneer Girl: The Annotated Autobiography by Laura Wilder
DB080323
Read by Laura Ginnarelli. Reading time: 28 hours, 48 minutes.
Previously unpublished autobiography of Wilder (1867-1957), finished in 1930, and the source of much material in the Little House books, including Little House in the Big Woods (DB 50921). Discusses growing up in the Midwest in the late 1800s. Includes scholarly notations that expand on Wilder's recollections. 1930.
Razorland series by Ann Aguirre
Enclave by Ann Aguirre
BR019589; web-braille not available.
DB074167
Read by Kristin Allison. Reading time: 7 hours.
In a post-apocalyptic future, Deuce, a loyal huntress, brings back meat while avoiding the deadly Freaks outside her underground enclave. But when she is partnered with outsider Fade, she begins to see that the ways of the elders may be horrifically wrong. Razorland series, book 1. Violence. 2011.
Outpost by Ann Aguirre
BR019630; 5 Volumes. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3. Volume 4. Volume 5.
DB075532
Read by Kristin Allison. Reading time: 8 hours, 55 minutes.
Deuce and Fade struggle to fit in with the organized topside community called Salvation. An excellent fighter, Deuce volunteers her much-needed skills to patrol against the Freaks--but in Salvation, women do not use weapons. Razorland series, book 2. Violence. 2012.
Horde by Ann Aguirre
BR020393; 6 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3. Volume 4. Volume 5. Volume 6.
DB078008
Read by Kristin Allison. Reading time: 12 hours, 14 minutes.
As a horde of freaks gathers near the town of Salvation, Deuce and her friends search for outside help and ready themselves to fight their largest battle yet. But the freaks are evolving. Razorland series, book 3. Violence. 2013.
Regine's Book: A Teen Girl's Last Words by Regine Stokke
BR019874; 4 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3. Volume 4.
DB076270
Read by Theresa Conkin. Reading time: 8 hours, 56 minutes.
Blog posts by Norwegian Regine Stokke (1991-2009), who was diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndrome and acute myelogenous leukemia in 2008. Chronicles her treatments and details her thoughts about and struggles with cancer. Includes Regine's poetry and messages from family and readers. Some strong language. 2010.
Rot and Ruin series by Jonathan Maberry
Rot and Ruin by Jonathan Maberry
DB072652
Read by Alec Volz. Reading time: 12 hours, 57 minutes.
In a post-apocalyptic world, fifteen-year-old Benny Imura has to find a job or forfeit half of his food rations. After debating his options, Benny follows in his brother's footsteps and trains to kill zombies. 2012-2013 Gateway Award winner. Violence. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2012-2013. For senior high and older readers. Rot & Ruin series, book 1. 2010.
Dust and Decay by Jonathan Maberry
DB074086
Read by Erik Sandvold. Reading time: 15 hours, 1 minute.
After surviving the hellish events, Benny, Nix, and Tom make plans to leave the safety of their town to search for an airplane in the Ruin--a desolate land filled with zombies and evil humans. Rot & Ruin series, book 2. Violence. 2011.
Flesh and Bone and Fire and Ash by Jonathan Maberry
DB077489
Read by Erik Sandvold. Reading time: 29 hours, 29 minutes.
In Flesh and Bone Benny, Nix, and friends contend with a death cult bent on feeding the living to zombies. In Fire and Ash scientists pursue a cure for the zombie plague. Rot & Ruin series, books 3-4. Violence and some strong language. 2012.
Sally Ride: America's First Woman in Space by Lynn Sherr
DB079670
LP030118
Read by Kristin Allison. Reading time: 13 hours, 31 minutes.
Journalist examines the life of Sally Ride (1951-2012), the first American woman astronaut to go to space. Details Ride's childhood and early life in California, her selection as an astronaut, and post-mission endeavors to encourage girls' interest in science fields. Discusses Ride's private life and relationships. 2014.
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
DB082683
Read by David Ledoux. Reading time: 15 hours, 23 minutes.
Thief Kaz Brekker leads a crew of outcasts to break into an impenetrable prison and retrieve a person of importance to the Merchant Council. However, mayhem ensues when nothing goes according to plan. Six of Crows series, book 1. Violence and some strong language. Commercial audiobook. 2015.
Sorta Like a Rock Star by Matthew Quick
DB075470
DBC05692
Read by Jill Fox. Reading time: 6 hours, 49 minutes.
Read by Laramie Thimpson. Reading time: 7 hours, 5 minutes.
Though seventeen-year-old Amber Appleton is homeless and lives with her unfit mother in a school bus, she remains a relentless optimist and spends her time helping others. But Amber experiences one burden too many and eventually slips into depression. Some strong language. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2013-2014. 2010.
Soul surfer a True Story of Faith, Family, and Fighting to get back on the Board by Bethany Hamilton.
BR019783; 2 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2.
DB059485
Read by Michele Schaeffer. Reading time: 3 hours, 1 minute.
Autobiography of a Hawaiian junior-champion surfer who lost an arm in a shark attack when she was thirteen. Describes her home life and Christian upbringing. Relates the experiences of consulting a blind psychologist about her disability, and relearning the sport. 2004.
Spare Parts: Four Undocumented Teenagers, One Ugly Robot, and the Battle for the American Dream by Joshua Davis
BR020681; 3 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3.
DB080725
Read by Bill Wallace. Reading time: 7 hours, 24 minutes.
Contributing editor from Wired recounts how four undocumented Mexican immigrants in Arizona put together an underwater robot named Stinky from scavenged parts, and went on to win the National Underwater Robotics Competition at UC Santa Barbara in 2004. 2014
The Testing series by Joelle Charbonneau
The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau
BR020506; 4 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3. Volume 4.
DB076777
Read by Cecelia Riddett. Reading time: 9 hours, 44 minutes.
After the Seven Stages War, scattered colonies try to rebuild the desolate Earth. Sixteen-year-old Cia, from the Five Lakes Colony, is chosen for the Testing, winners of which attend the university. But Cia questions her decision when poorly performing candidates go missing. Testing series, book 1. Violence. Truman Award nominee, 2015-2016. 2013.
Independent Study by Joelle Charbonneau
BR020507; 4 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3. Volume 4.
DB078427
Read by Jennifer Hubbard. Reading time: 9 hours, 54 minutes.
After surviving the deadly exams, Cia Vale and Tomas are now freshman at United Commonwealth University and are assigned a course of study. As the year commences, surveillance increases, and the rebellion needs Cia's help. Testing series, book 2. Violence. 2014.
Graduation Day by Joelle Charbonneau
BR020517; 3 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3.
DB079748
Read by Jennifer Hubbard. Reading time: 9 hours, 6 minutes.
Tensions between the United Commonwealth and the rebel alliance intensify, with deadly action looming on the horizon. Meanwhile, gifted student Cia Vale, unsure of which side to trust, must convince her fellow students to believe in her. Testing series, book 3. Violence. 2014.
This Side of Home by Renée Watson
BR020837; 3 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3.
DB081902
Read by Heather Taylor. Reading time: 5 hours, 19 minutes.
Twins Nikki and Maya Younger agree on most things. But as their senior year begins, they react differently to the gentrification of their Portland, Oregon, neighborhood and the new white family that moves in--after their best friend and her mother are evicted. 2015.
The Truth About Alice by Jennifer Mathieu
DB079643
Read by Emily Stewart. Reading time: 5 hours, 36 minutes.
When ugly rumors and lies about Alice Franklin start after one of the guys she allegedly slept with at a party dies in a car accident, questions about truth arise in her small town. Some strong language and some descriptions of sex. 2014.
Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March by Lynda Lowery
DB081677
Read by Emily Stewart. Reading time: 1 hour, 4 minutes.
A fiftieth-anniversary tribute shares the story of Lynda Blackmon Lowery, the youngest person to complete the momentous Selma-to-Montgomery march. Describes her frequent imprisonment for her participation in nonviolent demonstrations and her involvement in historic Civil Rights events. Some violence. 2015.
Unwind series by Neal Shusterman
Unwind by Neal Shusterman
BR020972; 4 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3. Volume 4.
DB066918
Read by Erik Synnestvedt. Reading time: 10 hours, 24 minutes.
In a future world, parents may "unwind," or disassemble, their offspring between the ages of thirteen and eighteen to harvest their body parts for others' use. Teens Connor, Risa, and Lev fight to uphold their beliefs and perhaps save their own lives. Unwind series, book 1. Gateway Book Award nominee, 2009-2010. 2007.
Unwholly by Neal Shusterman
BR022155; 5 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3. Volume 4. Volume 5.
After the revolt the morality of unwinding teens comes into question, but big business resists and wants to expand the practice. Meanwhile Cam, who is completely made of unwind parts, searches for his own humanity and purpose. Unwind series, book 2. Some violence. 2012.
Unwholly; Unsouled; Undivided by Neal Shusterman
DB081316
Read by Mark Delgado. Reading time: 34 hours, 32 minutes.
After the revolt at Happy Jack Harvest Camp, teens Connor, Risa, and Lev are reenergized to fight greedy corporations and government laws on harvesting adolescents' body parts. Their epic struggle continues in the final three books of the series. Unwind series, books 2-4. Violence. 2014.
Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green
BR019614; 4 volumes of braille. Volume 1. Volume 2. Volume 3. Volume 4.
Two Chicago teen boys, one gay and one straight, meet accidentally and discover that they share the same name. One of them begins to date the other's best friend Tiny. Then Tiny produces a musical extravaganza about their lives. Stonewall Honor. 2010.
The Wright Brothers by David McCullough
DB082175
LP030092
Read by Patrick Downer. Reading time: 11 hours, 54 minutes.
Author of The Greater Journey details the lives of brothers Wilbur (1867-1912) and Orville (1871-1948) Wright and their development of the first working airplane. Describes their early lives in Dayton, Ohio, work on airplanes, and the influence of their sister Katharine. Bestseller. 2015.
X: A Novel by Ilyasah Shabazz
DB081938
Read by Cary Hite. Reading time: 10 hours, 30 minutes.
Fictionalized biography of a young Malcolm Little before he became known as human-rights leader Malcolm X. Malcolm struggles to deal with the tragedy surrounding his parents and his turbulent youth until a life-changing moment in prison. Violence and strong language. 2015.