Zora's Cry

Adoption. Orphanhood. Adulthood. Essence Bestselling Author Tia McCollors delves into these weighted themes into a moving narrative. Tia, a young woman grieving the recent death of her parents, uncovers a life-altering secret that sends her fragile world into whirl. This book isn't really for kids. But it's appropriate for those adult ELLs who happen to be in high school.

Payton Skky: Staying Pure

Stephanie Perry Moore delves into high school dating scene with Payton Sky, a popular upper classman. Payton's boyfriend wants to sleep with  her, but she's committed to waiting until marriage. Her conviction threatens not only her relationship with her boyfriend, but her best girl friends as well. Perry Moore's raw narrative engages teenage readers where they are and presents an alternative to the lifestyle of casual sex.

I enjoyed this series as 16 year old for several reasons. First, the setting: Moore is a greater Atlanta resident, as am I.  Her series takes place in Georgia, which was an instant connecting point for me. Moore is published by Moody Publishers , and I had the privilege of working with their staff during college. It's rare to find quality young adult literature which is both explicitly Christian and written for a Black audience. Perry Moore delivers it all.

Hatchet

What do you get when you combine a plane crash in the heart of Canada's wilderness and a teenage boy? Hatchet. Because survival wouldn't be possible without it, the hatchet that is. Book 1 of Brian's Saga begins the riveting narrative Gary Paulsen weaves throughout the series. This is where our protagonist first triumphs over nature and her fierce elements.