Last week I had the honor of meeting Patrick Jones, the author of two novels for young adults. Things Change was published in 2004 and documents an abusive relationship from both the female and male perspectives. I read most of this in one sitting because it was too intense to put down! I just started reading his new novel Nailed, which came out last spring. This book follows the life of Bret Hendricks, a high school outsider who enjoys theatre, kitschy tee shirts, and The Clash. However, his dad would prefer his son to take an interest in sports or car repair and goes out of his way to make Bret know that he's a big disappointment to the family.

Both of these books are quick reads and are unique enough to not interfere with what you have to read for school. I encourage you to check them out (literally!).