The Black Stallion by Walter Farley

 

Alec Ramsay is coming home from a relative in another country on a boat.  At one of the stops, a wild, unbroken stallion is loaded onto the boat.  On the way to the U.S., a storm hits, and the boat wrecks.  Alec and the stallion are stranded on an island and must survive by themselves.  The Black Stallion is a great book in the beginning of a great classic series.

The Dispossessed by Ursula K. Le Guin

 

This is a novel that peers into the heart of a dystopian society filled with oppression and racial conflict that divides the two planets, Urras and Annarres, causing the reader to experience the many emotional shifts as the protagonist, Shevek, desperately tries to crack the code of quantum and therefore physics in order to form a bond between the two planets.

This is What Happy Looks Like by Jennifer E. Smith

 

In my opinion, this was a great book.  I loved the romance between the two main characters and the silly adventures they have.

Refugee by Alan Gratz

I love this book because the author finds a way to connect 3 different stories of refugees in a heroic way.  He portrays all the characters to be strong and persevere through hard times.

The Sword of Summer by Rick Riordan

 

This is a very thrilling book.  There is action, chilling pasts, and Annabeth Chase, daughter of Athena.  Things start to really go wild after Magnus dies (for the first time).  Elves, dwarves, and adventure - lots of fun!

I am Princess X by Cherie Priest

 

I really enjoyed this book.  There is never a dull moment.  If you have a good relationship with your best friend, it is a relatable book.  This book is filled with mystery and action.  I would recommend this for anyone 11-17.