American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang (Printz Winner 2007)
I can't say that I was excited to read this when I picked it up. It's a graphic novel, and while I appreciate their purpose, I find that I don't enjoy most (with the exception of Maus). I was determined to read this though, and was blown away by the story. As a graphic novel, it is a quick read (it took me about 45 minutes). As a Printz winner, the target audience is young adult, but I wouldn't hesitate to give this to someone younger as well. The story is played out in three tales, each intertwining with the others. We are first introduced to the Monkey King, a traditional mythological character in Chinese traditions, and then to Jin Wang, trying to adjust to a new school as only the second Asian student, and finally to Danny, who appears to be caucasian, but is visited yearly by his cousin, Chin-Kee, who epitomizes every stereotype about asians known to man.
This is a modern fable, and is told as such. The overall message is appreciating yourself, and being comfortable in your own skin, regardless of color or ethnicity. I may be white, but being heavier than the norm(even though this particular issue is not covered in the book), I can appreciate the message. Great for anyone with self-doubt, and may be effective for the kids who ridicule as well. Fabulous!
The Earth, My Butt, and Other Big Round Things by Carolyn Mackler (Printz Honor Book, 2004)
I didn't intentionally choose two books in a row about self image, it just happened. Do not be deceived by the title of this book. This is not a comedy. This covers the story of Virginia, who seems to have a perfect family. Successful parents, brother at Columbia, and sister in the Peace Corps. All thin, all beautiful, all perfect. Virginia, however is heavier than the norm, comforts herself with food, and is humiliated by her parents' ignorant comments on her body. The one highlight in her life is Byron, her brother-on-a-pedestal. One day, however, a call comes to the house. Byron has been accused of date-raping a girl on campus. Virginia's world is rocked to the core. Virginia learns that she has to accept that her hero has faults as well. A great look at how a family struggles to survive after a shameful occurrence. I don't recommend this book for anyone younger than high school, as it deals with rape, sexism, and self-abuse. It does tell a very important tale, and recommend it highly for those mature enough to deal with the situation.
The First Part Last by Angela Johnson (Printz Winner, 2004)
Apparently everything has a message today. When I first read this book, I have to admit that I was blown away. Bobby is 16, and finds himself caring for a newborn infant-his newborn infant-and feeling completely overwhelmed. His mother is supportive, but refuses to take over the care of baby Feather. Feather's mother is conspicuously absent, and we don't find out until well into the book why she is such. A strong story where Feather's need for a parent competes with Bobby's need to be a child for as long as he can, I found a lump in my throat several times. I appreciate that this is a teenage father assuming responsibility, and the story will appeal to both genders for this reason. Also a winner of the Coretta Scott King Award for non-violent social change, a great read for junior high and beyond. Even as an adult, it made me pause whether I would be responsible enough to take on the challenge of raising a baby on my own. Bravo. 
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