In a world where screens dominate our lives, encouraging teens to read for pleasure can foster a lifelong passion for literature. Young adult novels play a crucial role in nurturing this love for reading. Whether it’s fiction, romance, sci-fi, or mystery, diving into a book allows young readers to explore new realms and expand their imaginations. A great YA novel not only entertains but also invites readers to see the world from different perspectives, making the possibilities seem limitless.
Given the current landscape, with many teens spending more time online, igniting a love for books is more essential than ever. The American Psychological Association notes that fewer than 20% of teens read newspapers, magazines, or books daily, and a significant number haven’t read a book for fun in over a year. Captivating their interest often requires presenting them with engaging characters and compelling stories that encourage them to turn the page. With many extracurriculars paused due to COVID-19, now could be the perfect opportunity to introduce teens to the joys of reading.
Here’s a curated list of acclaimed YA novels, ranging from classic tales from the 1960s to contemporary teen romantic comedies set against the backdrop of beauty pageants in Texas. As you prepare to build a bookshelf that will spark your teen’s interest, check out these top young adult reads.
Top Young Adult Novels
- Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
- You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson
- Furia by Yanile Saied Méndez
- We Were Liars by E. Lockhart
- I’ll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson
- The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
- The Field Guide to the North American Teenager by Ben Philippe
- Looking for Alaska by John Green
- Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
Best YA Fantasy Reads
- The Selection, 1 by Kiera Cass
- Midnight Sun by Stephenie Meyer
- Divergent by Veronica Roth
Noteworthy Books for Teenage Girls
- Tweet Cute by Emma Lord
- The Black Kids by Christina Hammonds Reed
- Dumplin’ by Julie Murphy
- To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han
- On the Come Up by Angie Thomas
- What We Buried by Kate A. Boorman
For those intrigued by mysteries or true crime, What We Buried tells the story of two siblings—one a renowned figure seeking independence, and the other struggling in the shadows—who must come together to unravel the mystery of their parents’ disappearance, uncovering family secrets along the way.
Timeless Classics Every Teen Should Explore
- The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
- Tiger Eyes by Judy Blume
- The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien – An adventure rich in imagination, ideal for those drawn to fantasy.
- The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
These selections form the foundation of a robust YA library. For even more recommendations, don’t miss our post on 20 LGBTQ Books For Kids from Preschooler to Teen and check out 30 Books Every Teenager Needs to Read.
To summarize, introducing teens to engaging YA novels can enhance their reading experience and broaden their perspectives. From emotional tales of love and loss to thrilling adventures, a well-chosen book can make a lasting impact.