In this thoughtful and engaging collection, 11 acclaimed authors explore the highs and lows of growing up and shining on in the face of obstacles. A parent's departure, a sister's illness, a cheerleader's breakup, a family's secrets . . . these stories sensitively capture the challenges—and triumphs—of finding the way to a bright tomorrow.Featuring powerful stories by Lois Lowry, Meg Rosoff, Meg Cabot, Melvin Burgess, Sue Limb, and more. . . .A portion of the money generated from the sale of this book will benefit CureSearch National Childhood Cancer Foundation and Children's Oncology Group, partners in the search for a cure for childhood cancer.KLIATTThis concise collection of 11 short stories centers on the theme of growing up. More specifically, the characters deal (or don't deal) with major obstacles or hardships that teens often face. Some are more universal than otherscoming out as gay, parents divorcing. Other issues are entirely unique, such as dealing with synesthesia and blindness all at once, or dealing with moving to a real haunted house. Notable authors contributed to this collection, including Meg Cabot, Melvin Burgess, Meg Rosoff, and Lois Lowry, who provides an introduction articulating the coming-of-age theme. All the authors know teen troubles intimately, which comes across in their writing. The stories are brief, which makes for a fast and enjoyable read. In many cases, though, the stories cut off before a complete resolution. They tend to present the common theme and issues, and the reader gets a chance to relate, but they would serve their purpose better if given the chance to continue fully.
Foreword viiResigned 1Allie Finklestein's Rules for Boyfriends 16Coming Home 32Getting the Message 45You're a Legend 58The Bad Sister 71Calling the Cats 82Humming Through My Fingers 98A Summer to Die 116Skin Deep 127John Lennon Said 139About the Authors 155