The books I write about are stocked at virtually all general interest independent bookstores across the country. But titles do sell out on occasion, especially at this time of year. Fortunately, indie bookstores order from warehouses that deliver books daily, which means a store can replenish stock quickly, often within a day or two. So if you don't see a title you want on the shelf, make sure to ask at the counter if the book can be ordered or is already on the way.

THE REASON I JUMP: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy with Autism by Naoki Higashida. This extraordinary memoir about living with autism was written by Higashida, who is now an autism advocate, motivational speaker, and the author of several books of fiction and nonfiction. He wrote the book, which was first published in Japan in 2007, when he just 13 (albeit a very smart, very self-aware 13), by using an alphabet grid to painstakingly construct words, sentences, and thoughts that he is unable to speak out loud. One of the appeals of the book is Higashida's ability (and willingness) to answer questions that people want to know - "Why do people with autism talk so loudly and weirdly?" "Why do you line up your toy cars and blocks?" and "What's the reason you jump?" (Naoki's answer: "When I'm jumping, it's as if my feelings are going upward to the sky.") Although the book obviously resonates with families impacted by autism, the young author's disarming honesty and unique point of view on not only autism but life itself is quite powerful and moving.
 

I AM MALALA: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban by Malala Yousafzai with Christina Lamb. Pakistani teenager Yousafzai made headlines when she was shot and nearly assassinated by the Taliban for speaking out for her right to an education. She survived, of course, and became an instant media darling and spokesperson for women's rights, leading to her becoming the youngest nominee ever for the Nobel Peace Prize at age 16. This memoir tells her story, as well as the story of of her family and life under Taliban rule. It is helped greatly by the contributions of Malala's co-writer Lamb, who is a veteran foreign affairs correspondent at London's Sunday Times and has been covering Pakistan for more than 25 years.