4. Annie on My Mind

Garden, N. (1982).  Annie on my mind.  NY:  FSG.

Annie lives in the low income side of New York City.  She attends school where there are security guards to help maintain order.  Eliza goes to an "uppity" independent school on the opposite side of town.  Although they come from different worlds, the girls fall in love with each other.  They both struggle with their own identities and the acceptance of being gay.  The consequences of their actions and getting caught result in Eliza's possible expulsion, family and friends finding out, and the firing of two gay teachers.  The girls go their separate ways to college, allowing Liza to have time to accept herself as being gay.  After months of being apart, they learn that the truth shall set you free, as they accept each other and say "I love you!"

This is a story about following your heart and finding your soul mate.  These girls had a real struggle that they were able to overcome even from prejudice and nonacceptance.  These book is recommended for older teenagers who are struggling with their own existence and acceptance into the uncanny world.  

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