Reality Rules II: A Guide to Teen Nonfiction Reading Interests

Fraser recommends nonfiction books published after 2007 that will appeal to a wide range of young adults, including reluctant and ESL readers. Sections include "Adventure," "Memoirs and Autobiographies," "Biography," "Sports," "All About You," and "The Arts." The chapters are clearly organized, and each featured title includes an annotation and suggested reading level. Titles that have won awards are noted. As books are selected for their quality, design, and organization, as well as for their popularity, Reality Rules II is a useful tool for collection development and programming. The "Consider Starting With…" feature points out the more accessible titles in the chapter that would be a great starting place for purchasing or for creating displays or booklists. "Fiction Read-Alikes" offers more suggested titles to expand topics. An appendix provides information about additional reference and readers' advisory resources, review journals, and online sources. The indexes are user-friendly and allow for quick access to specific authors, titles, and subjects. As many states are adopting the Common Core Standards with its shift in focus from fiction to nonfiction, this guide will be especially valuable to librarians selecting content that will actively engage teen readers across the curriculum.—Sherry J. Mills, Hazelwood East High School, St. Louis, MO