Even if graphic novels aren't usually your thing, you should give This One Summer a try. I sent it to my mom and she absolutely loved it, declaring it "so Canadian" and liking how it could have very easily turned preachy or sappy and didn't take such easy routes out.

American Born Chinese I didn't actually like. It's three stories in one that are awkwardly tied together: contemporary, fable, and a sitcom-like version of Chinese stereotypes (think Long Duck Dong). Still, great reviews and a Printz Award, so obviously a lot of people like it.

I haven't read the other books in this list.