Awards and Honors2009 Printz Award, Honor Book; 2009 ALA Best Books for Young Adults; 2009 <i>Booklist</i> Top 10 SF/Fantasy for Youth; 2008 <i>Booklist</i> Editors’ Choice: Books for Youth; 2008 <i>Horn Book</i> Fanfare, Best Fiction for Teens; <I>Kirkus Reviews</I> Best Young Adult Book of 2008; 2008 <I>Publishers Weekly</I> Best Book of the Year, Children’s Fiction; 2008 <I>School Library Journal</I> Best Books, Fiction; 2008 <i>VOYA</i> Best Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror
Ever since her mother died, Liga has been neglected and sexually abused by her father and ostracized and preyed upon by the people in her town. As a result, she has given birth to one child and is pregnant with another by the age of fifteen. She has no hope for the future until a mysterious force transports her, her daughter, and her unborn child to a heavenly world free of danger and malice. As Liga raises her daughters, Branza and Urdda, the borders guarding their isolated world begin to break down. And one day, Urdda finds her way out. A 2009 Michael L. Printz Honor Book.
Filled with stimulating nonfiction and can't-put-it-down fiction, this category is perfect for bridging the gap between young adult and adult reading. Take note: these 14 selections often contain mature situations and language that could be considered controversial.