Venomous by Christopher Krovatin

Locke has anger-management issues - he calls his issues "the venom." He has one friend, Randall. Locke's world is one of self-imposed isolation, until Randall invites him to a party where he meets goth girl, Renee. While Locke is dealing with the loss of his absent father, Renee is dealing with the death of her parents and a brother, Andrew, who has anger issues of his own. Locke finds himself at the cross roads where he can choose to change his ways. While there's no easy answers for teens dealing with serious issues, this novel offers hope that it's possible to change.

Beastly by Alex Flinn

Flinn puts a modern twist on the classic "Beauty and the Beast" story. While the storyline sticks closely to the well-known story, Beast's father is a television news anchor and Beauty's father is drug-user. The Beast is Kyle, once the prince of his school, and Beauty is Lindy. Kyle is turned into a beast by a witch and he has two years to earn Lindy's love and break the spell. A very entertaining read, even for those familiar with the tale.

Trickster Native American Tales: A Graphic Collection

More than 40 storytellers and cartoonists have brought 21 Native American folktales to life in this graphic novel. Stories include how the stars were created, how owls became guardians of the dead, and how a rabbit stole a wolf's girlfriend. Trickster coyotes, ravens, and rabbits are a wonderful introduction to Native American folklore!