This list is in no particular order. It includes books that I have used with students and/or that my own two teenagers have found to be valuable.
 

• What Teens Need To Succeed

by Peter Benson, Judy Galbraith, and Pamela Espeland

As the cover says, this book is filled with proven, practical ways to shape your own future. The authors remind teens that they have the power to look at their lives, identify the parts that are working, target problem areas, plan for a future, and shape their success. The book focuses on building assets ó that is, identifying the good things in your life and building on them. The authors organize the book around 40 assets ó both external (good things you need in your life) and internal (good things you need in yourself). Each chapter covers one asset and gives specific ideas for building that asset. The authors also include lots of resources (including websites) if you would like to know more.
 

• Donít Sweat the Small Stuff for Teens

This little book contains 100 short pieces that seek to help teens learn early the value of perspective, wisdom, and the ability to not be "irritated, bothered, and annoyed by the day-to-day stuff that happens to all of us." Terrific reminders for everyone!

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens

This is another book that guides teenagers as they improve their self image, build friendships, resist peer pressure, achieve their goals, get along with their parents and so much more. The author has an entertaining style that is appealing to teens and their parents. Lots of graphics and humor make it an easy read.
 
 

• Closing the Gap ó A Strategy for Bringing Parents and Teens Together

As the back cover says, "Jay McGraw works from both sides [parents and teens] sharing the perspectives of parent and teen as the parent struggles for control and the latter for independence". He conveys to parents how teenagers want to be treated and he shows teens how gaining power can come only from earning respect. He covers teen and parent myths, offers dos and doníts for both parents and teens, and gives specific strategies for parents and teens to bridge the gap and reconnect. The author has a sense of humor too!
 
 

• Stargirl

You know what? This is not a self help book. This is a novel ó a great story of nonconformity and magic. Stargirl arrives at Mica High and the spotlight of popularity shines on her ó for awhile. Everything changes and so does the spotlightís aim. How Stargirl and other students handle the shifting whims of popularity make for a compelling and memorable story.
 
 

• Ironman

Bo Brewster is having a tough time with family and teacher troubles. He ends up in anger management class. Here, to his surprise, he discovers a collection of edgy, interesting survivors and their impact on his life is profound. This tender, funny story is for everyone. It is about standing up, getting knocked down, and standing up again. It is about being heard ó and learning to listen. Read it.