Written by a national bestselling novelist, these short stories provide a realistic peek into the lives of young adults trying to make it in a world that doesn't play fair. Always thought-provoking, sometimes controversial, the Life Matters Series offers relatable characters in realistic circumstances that matter in the lives of young adults. Everything to Live For - Michelle is trying to hide her HIV-positive status from people in the small town of Murphy. But when a popular girl's boyfriend befriends Michelle, trouble follows. Good Gangsters - The white kids at school are tired of being picked on by minority groups. They unite for "protection" but end up imitating their adversaries. The Lock-In - Justin and Monica did it two years ago, and everyone thought it was funny. But no one will be laughing after Taylor and Ashley enter this "harmless" competition at the JROTC lock-in. Testing Terrance - If Terrance does not pass the state's standardized test, he will not graduate with his class. When his beautiful tutor snubs him, Terrance's considers cheating on the high-stakes exam. A Second Opinion - Whoever heard of an Asian kid who couldn't pass the state high school achievement test? Well, Crystal La isn't exactly Asian, and she didn't exactly fail the exam. So why is she enrolled in Achievement Improvement class?