Monster by Walter Dean Myers

Sixteen-year-old Steven Harmon is on trial for his life. Steve is facing charges for the muder of a convience store owner- but was he really the look out, or was he simply in the wrong place at the wrong time. While in prison and during the trial, Steve records his experiences in the form of a film script. Life in prison is explored in an honest and realistic fashion (including violence and sexual assult). Steven's voice is true to form- his anguish and personal struggles draw readers into the story and force readers to struggle with the question of his guilt. This quick read has won multiple awards including the Printz Award, a Coretta Scott King honor, and was a National Book Award finalist.