Close To Famous by Joan Bauer

12-year-old Foster McFee has a big dream!  She wants to have her own cooking show just like her hero, Sonny Kroll.  There are just a few challenges in Foster's way.  Her father was killed in Iraq, her mother's abusive boyfriend made them run away to a small town in West Virginia, and Foster can't read.  In this sweet book (pun intended), Foster struggles to overcome her challenges and make the world a sweeter place - one cupcake at a time!  This is a wonderful story that encourages people to fight for their dreams and you can't go wrong with Joan Bauer's books for young people!

Crossing Over by Anna Kendall

This story is a truly strange mix of fantasy, fairy tale, and brutality.  14-year-old Roger Kilbourne has the ability to 'cross over' to the land of the dead.  His abusive uncle, Hartah, forces Roger to travel back and forth bringing news from the dead for money.  After his uncle dies, Roger travels to the queendom where he becomes the queen's fool and continues his travels to the land of the dead for her service.  The book is written at a young adult level but has some mature sexual themes.  I recommend it only if you like weird stories.

Daughter of Venice by Donna Jo Napoli

     You can never go wrong by choosing a book by Donna Jo Napoli.  As usual, her research is incredible in this historical fiction novel for children.  14 year old Donata is frustrated at the restrictions imposed on girls and women in 16th century Venice and disguises herself as a boy to sneak out of her home and explore the city.  Donata soon finds that the results of her exploring have placed her household in danger and she must use some quick thinking and careful planning to set things right.  Wonderfully written, this is an exciting adventure for children and adults who love children's literature!

Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'brien

This is a very exciting young adult novel about Gaia, a 16 year old midwife.  The story takes place in the future where society is separated into those who live inside the Enclave and those who live outside.
When her parents are arrested, Gaia must decide whether to continue serving the Enclave, or risking everything to rescue her parents and learn the truth about this disturbing society.  This book keeps excitement and surprises coming with each new page!  I wouldn't be surprised if it is destined for The Hunger Games type fame.  Guess what else - it is the first part of a trilogy so the adventure continues!