Eighteen-year-old Lia comes to terms with her best friend’s death from anorexia as she struggles with the same disorder.

Liz says:

“Anderson is one of my favorite authors but I have to say that I can only recommend this book to a very limited audience. Wintergirls deals very realistically with the physical and emotional devastation of eating disorders; there is no sugar-coating or easy answers found in this story. If you or someone you know is suffering from anorexia or bulimia, you will want to read this as a cautionary tale.”

A traumatic event near the end of the summer has a devastating effect on Melinda’s freshman year in high school.

Liz says:

“Melinda Sordino is one of the most memorable characters ever. She narrates her story through snapshots/scenes which are divided into the 4 quarters of her 9th grade year. The format and the story are compelling. This is a must read for girls.”

After being sold to a cruel couple in New York City, a slave named Isabel spies for the rebels during the Revolutionary War.

Liz says:

“This thoughtful and thought provoking novel sheds new light on both slavery in New York and the conflict between Loyalists and Patriots during the American Revolution. Anderson’s story is filled with unforgettable characters and amazing attention to historical detail.”

In 1793 Philadelphia, sixteen-year-old Matilda Cook, separated from her sick mother, learns about perseverance and self-reliance when she is forced to cope with the horrors of a yellow fever epidemic.

Liz says:

“As much as this is great historical fiction it is also a harrowing story of survival. Mattie is incredible; she faces hardship after hardship with unceasing heroism. There are very entertaining side stories, as well, including a romance. I’ve never met someone who didn’t like this book. (Don’t miss the author’s note at the back where she tells about her years of research. You’ll be amazed at all of the factual detail.)”