(Connecting Libraries, Underserved teens and Books)
In summer 2008, the Outreach to Young Adults with Special Needs Committee of the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) selected a new theme and books for Round II of the Great Stories Club. Online applications for Round II were accepted September 9–November 14, 2008, and library programs will be conducted January 1–May 31, 2009.
The Round II theme is Breaking Boundaries. Boundaries can take many forms in life. They often make life difficult by dividing us and preventing us from seeing the essence of one another. These stories are about teens who overcame the boundaries in their lives:
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The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie, 2006
Thirteen-year-old Junior is a budding cartoonist who leaves his school on the Spokane Indian Reservation to attend a “mainstream” school where he is the only Native American, other than the school mascot. Awards/honors: National Book Award winner, New York Times Notable Book of 2007, Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year, School Library Journal Best Book of the Year, Kirkus Reviews Best YA Book of 2007. Read professional reviews (for participants only; password required). -
Black and White by Paul Volponi, 2005
Marcus is black, Eddie is white. The two high school seniors are close friends everyone refers to as “Black and White.” When they get involved in an armed robbery with tragic consequences, the wrong one is charged. Will his friend come clean? Awards/honors: ALA Best Book for Young Adults, ALA Top Ten Quick Picks. Read professional reviews (for participants only; password required). -
Luna by Julie Ann Peters, 2006
Fifteen-year-old Liam is a transsexual who is able to live as a girl named Luna with the help of his sister Regan. When Liam announces his plans to live as Luna full-time, Regan dreads what will happen. Awards/honors: National Book Award Finalist, Stonewall Honor Book, ALA Best Book for Young Adults. Read professional reviews (for participants only; password required).