Teen Scene
November 2017
"Feelings are like blankets, covering you up so you can't see clearly, or like mazes you can too easily get lost inside. I am terrified of getting lost."
~ from Corey Ann Haydu's OCD Love Story 
 
Recent Releases
Invictus
by Ryan Graudin

Born outside of time and rejected from the Corps of Central Time Travelers, 17-year-old Farway "Far" Gaius McCarthy has his work cut out for him as captain of the Invictus, traveling back in time to steal antiquities from history. Told in the alternating voices of Far's diverse crew, this "rollicking, bombshell-laden adventure" (Kirkus Reviews) is sure to hook fans of quirky, Doctor Who-style science fiction.
That Inevitable Victorian Thing
by E.K. Johnston

In a near-future world built from an alternate version of the British Empire, multiethnic Crown Princess Victoria-Margaret arrives in Toronto for a summer of incognito freedom. Margaret knows it's her duty to marry a DNA-compatible spouse, but that doesn't prevent her from falling for commoner Helena…who's already engaged. Complex, thoughtful, and inclusive, That Inevitable Victorian Thing offers an appealing blend of romance and speculative fiction.
There's Someone Inside Your House
by Stephanie Perkins

Fans of author Stephanie Perkins' romances know that her books typically feature relatable characters, poignant emotions, and swoon-worthy love interests. This latest book, starring high school senior Makani, has all of those -- plus shady secrets and grisly serial murders. If you love slasher flicks, you don't want to miss this thrilling new direction from a popular author.
Release
by Patrick Ness

Struggling with his family's religious beliefs, an employer's ultimatum and his unrequited love for his ex, Adam struggles to move on with a best friend and a new relationship while trying to find the courage to stay true to himself. By the New York Times best-selling author of The Rest of Us Just Live Here and A Monster Calls.
The epic crush of Genie Lo
by F. C Yee

Sixteen-year-old Genie's focus on getting into a top-tier college is destroyed when an enigmatic transfer student, Quentin, helps her transform into a demon-fighter.
Inside OCD
If Aza Holmes from John Green's Turtles All the Way Down made you curious about other characters with obsessive-compulsive disorder, you may want to start with the books below. 
 
OCD Love Story
by Corey Ann Haydu

When Bea meets Beck, he's having a panic attack at a school dance. They end up kissing, which makes things awkward when they meet again in group therapy. Beck has OCD, and while Bea claims she only has a few "little anxieties," her issues are much deeper. Can Bea and Beck's love survive if they see each other for how they really are? Find out in this unflinching yet disarmingly hopeful romance. 
The Rest of Us Just Live Here
by Patrick Ness

Mikey's small town is plagued by vampires, ghosts, and zombie deer, but the paranormal drama only targets kids with "unusual names and capital-D Destinies." As for Mikey, he just wants to deal with his OCD, survive his messed-up family, and graduate high school without becoming collateral damage in yet another looming apocalypse. Combining emotional depth with wry in-jokes, The Rest of Us Just Live Here is a great pick for seen-it-all fantasy fans.
Every Last Word
by Tamara Ireland Stone

As one of the popular (and hyper-judgmental) queen bees at her school, 16-year-old Sam is careful to conceal her uncontrollable, obsessive thoughts. The strain of hiding is intense, however, and when Sam finds new friends among the members of a secret poetry group, she hopes it might finally be safe to open up. A steamy romance and an unexpected twist add spice to this sensitive, absorbing read.
OCD, the Dude, and Me
by Lauren Roedy Vaughn

Awkward, sarcastic high school senior Danielle is a social misfit who compulsively color-codes her collection of hats and Chuck Taylors. When eccentric new friends (and the philosophy of The Big Lebowski) challenge her to adjust her attitude, Danielle reluctantly starts to unravel the trauma of her past. For another flawed, complicated heroine coping with a troubled history, try Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King.
Don't Touch
by Rachel Wilson

Anxiety isn't anything new for Caddie, but ever since her father left, she's convinced that she can bring him back if she can only keep from touching anyone. But while gloves and self-control are one thing, preventing herself from falling for classmate Peter is another. Even as she struggles, you'll be rooting for the sympathetic protagonist in this candid insider's view of OCD.
Contact your librarian for more great books!
David Mason
Librarian, Teen Services
david.mason@kpl.org
 
Kitchener Public Library
85 Queen St. North
Kitchener, Ontario N2H2H1
519-743-0271

http://www.kpl.org/