Honorable Mentions
I’ll Give You the Sun
Jandy Nelson (2014)
“I’ll Give You the Sun,” by Jandy Nelson, is a story about growth, family, betrayal, relationships and passion. It is an inspirational novel showing the effects our choices have on one another and the different perspectives we hold on any certain situation.

Girl in Pieces
Kathleen Glasgow (2016)
“Girl in Pieces” is a story about the effects of self-harm. The story covers themes of healing, hope, depression, perseverance through suffering, self discovery and love. With fluid writing and a meaningful story, this novel will not fail to move its readers.

The Way I Used to Be
Amber Smith (2016)
“The Way I Used to Be,” by Amber Smith, is not for the light of heart. This story covers themes of violence, guilt, survival, communication and suffering. Similar to “Speak,” this novel shows a look inside a sexual assault victim’s head, so although not an easy read, it is certainly a powerful one.

5. Speak
Laurie Halse Anderson (1999)
“Speak” by Laurie Halse Anderson is a novel that can “speak” for itself. It covers themes of communication, isolation, violence, change and guilt. “Speak” is a powerful and moving story.

4. Between Shades of Grey
Ruta Sepetys (2011)
“Between Shades of Grey,” by Ruta Sepetys, gives a new perspective of World War II, a young Lithuanian girl’s perspective. The story is raw and carries huge emotional impact. The novel covers themes of family, love, morality, death and sacrifice.

3. Wintergirls
Laurie Halse Anderson (2009)
“Wintergirls,” by Laurie Halse Anderson, is a book you won’t be able to put down. The writing: impeccable. The story: beautiful and important. “Wintergirls” covers themes of eating disorders, friendships, death, family and survival.

2. We Were Liars
E. Lockhart (2014)
“We Were Liars,” by E. Lockhart, is a beautifully written book with an ending that will shock all. This novel covers topics of family, reality, mortality, love and power. Readers of this story will never forget the layers of meaning it held.

1. All the Bright Places
Jennifer Niven (2015)
“All the Bright Places,” by Jennifer Niven, tackles serious themes of suicide, mental illness, guilt, loss and love, while telling a beautiful story about two kids who hold the power of life in their hands.