Victories Greater Than Death By Charlie Jane Anders (Grades 7-9)

Known for her inventive, funny and unique speculative fiction writing, as well as being the founder of Other magazine and co-creator (along with Annalee Newitz) of the SF website io9, Charlie Jane Anders has made waves most recently for her contributions to YA literature. Featuring compelling and complex characters, and a thrilling story of alien origins, Victories Greater than Death is just the first in an award-winning YA trilogy, including the Locus Award for Best Young Adult Book. With themes of love, friendship, inclusion and anti-imperialism, this series is not only a thrilling, high-concept rollercoaster ride, it is, as one reviewer said, "a very genuine celebration of difference."