Skate by Michael Harmon

Michael Harmon's Skate was a surprisingly good book. At first, I thought it was just another story about a messed up boy. Harmon gives the reader a run for their money by adding a twist to this messed up teen. Ian McDermott, the main character, goes to Morrison High School in Spokane, Washington. Do not be misled into thinking that he is a streotypical punk skate boarder. Ian has morals along with a bond with his brother that reveals itself in extreme hardship. At Morrison High, the teachers are even smug toward him. Principal Spence lets Ian know the he "intends to clean up Morrisn High". Already frustrated, Ian goes to the gym where he proceeds to hit the teacher. In fear, Ian flees with his brother to Walla Walla, Washington, where he believes his father is living. Throughout the trip, he and his brother both change drastically as they attempt to survive. I do not want to say more, in fear of giving the story away. I reccommend this book. It is well written and will not disappoint.

Snitch by Allison Van Diepen

I never thought I would ever be seen reading Snitch by Allison Van Diepen. It was completely off my radar of must reads, but it blew me away. Snitch is about an honor student named Julia DiVino, who lives in Brooklyn, and is a returning junior at South Bay High School. Julia dislikes gangs, but unfortunately finds her school is divided by two gangs, the Bloods and the Crips. She thinks the year is going swimmingly well until she meets total “hottie”, Eric Valiente. Julie finds herself outside her comfort zone when Eric immediately gets her full attention. He turns her world upside down and inside out in a matter of weeks, with his involvement in gang activity. She participates in drastic and careless gang activities that she would have avoided before her involvement with Eric. The climatic point arrives when Julia gives Eric a heads up about some trouble coming his way, while getting into some trouble of her own. Soon after deciding to join Eric’s gang, Julia realizes the mistake she has made and finds that not only is Eric in trouble, he hasn't been honest with her since the day they met. Snitch hooks the reader and delivers a thrill with every turn of the page.