
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Hazel, 16, was diagnosed with cancer when she was 12. It was bad. She thought she was going to die. But miraculously, a new procedure prolongs her life. She’s still dying but not as quickly. Her parents force her to go to Cancer Support Group. Talk about depressing. Everyone there has cancer. Even the group leader is a cancer survivor. One day, she notices a gorgeous guy–Augustus is his name. Maybe Support Group isn’t that bad after all. This touching story of true love will keep readers turning the pages. Funny, sad, heart-warming and tear jerking at times Green takes readers on a journey of hope and survival.
Review by Barb, CLP – Allegheny

It Gets Better: Coming Out, Overcoming Bullying, and Creating a Life Worth Living
It Gets Better is a collection of stories written by religious people, celebrities, and everyday people. The book was edited by Dan Savage and Terry Miller who wanted to reach out to LGBT kids and give them hope. As a student who has endured bullying and someone who believes very much in equality I’m really glad that a book like this exists and I would recommend it to anyone gay or straight who was dealing with harassment in school. Last year I was really sad when I heard about those kids, all whom were gay and very close to my age who committed suicide. What’s great about this particular book is that it’s people from all different backgrounds and sexual orientations reaching out to kids that quite frankly have been being ignored for years and telling them not to give up, that they matter, and that life is worth living. Some of the stories are even from people who themselves have attempted suicide and are glad that they lived. The thing about this book is that there are so many different stories in the book you’ll undoubtedly find at least one person to relate to. It Gets Better also includes resources for LGBT youth and their allies, parents, and teachers. I think it’s unfortunate that a book and organization like this needs to exist, but until everyone realizes that we’re all human I’m glad it’s out there for people who are really struggling.
Review by Atiya Irvin-Mitchell
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