Fullmetal Alchemist by Hiromu Arakawa

After losing their bodies in an alchemy experiment gone wrong, Edward and Alphonse Elric set out on a journey for the only item that can bring their bodies back: the Philosopher’s Stone. The two brothers must overcome many challenges and are forced to choose between what they want most or save those they love. The Elrics will meet many memorable characters along their way in this typically stylized manga series which spans across twenty-seven volumes. As with many popular shonen, themes such as friendship, perseverance, grit and self-sacrifice are woven into this series. The black and white drawings are sharp and full of details which bring to life the multitude of action scenes found in nearly every chapter. Readers of Naruto, Bleach and One Piece are sure to enjoy following Edward and Alphonse along their epic journey.--Claudio Leon

Arakawa, Hiromu. Fullmetal Alchemist. San Francisco: Viz, 2005. Print.

Miracle’s Boys by Jacqueline Woodson

Lafayette, Charlie and Ty’ree used to be as close as brothers could be, but ever since Charlie came home from two years away in juvenile detention, he’s been angry and mean. The boys have had a difficult life; their father died in a tragic accident when they were younger, and their mother died while Charlie was away. With both parents gone, Ty’ree, the oldest, must leave his college dreams behind so that he can keep what’s left of the family together. This book is reminiscent of The Outsiders; narrated by the youngest, most sensitive brother, it is a story about family and what it really means to have heart.

Woodson, Jacqueline. Miracle’s Boys. New York: Penguin, 2000.