The Best Books for Young Adult Readers

There are few things as wonderful as getting lost for hours in a good book or series. Reading is a great way to cope with the stresses of life and indulge in a mind-activating hobby. With such a vast variety of new releases and old favorites, there is a book out there to please every reader. Here are some young adult novels that make staying up late to finish another chapter so worth it.

What to Consider in a Young Adult Book

Young adult readers are typically high school through college age, but many adults also enjoy them. Here are a few things to consider when looking for a good book in the genre:

• Age-range: Consider the storyline and elements, and if they are relatable to you as the reader.
• Characters: The main characters in the book will make more of an impact when they’re personally relatable to your life or experiences.
• Appeal: With so many genres of books out there, consider if the content will be engaging to you. Perhaps you’re a fan of science-fiction, history, fantasy, non-fiction, dystopian stories, or romance. Whatever you like to read, you should be able to find at least a couple of new young adult novels to add to your reading list.

Best New Release: Midnight Sun by Stephenie Meyer

The fifth book of the Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer, Midnight Sun is the long-awaited companion that tells the original story from Edward’s point of view. The iconic love story of Bella and Edward that captivated many is made complete. Readers can now finally experience the other side of the story with unforgettable details, dark struggles, and the implications of immortal love.

Best Classic Read: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

A beloved American novel and winner of the Pulitzer Price, Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird is a masterpiece story of the injustice in the deep South. It’s a heart-wrenching novel of adolescents coming of age in a town with horrific prejudice. Step into the mind of Scout Finch as she watches her father, a local lawyer, risk his career to defend a black man unjustly accused of a horrible crime.

Best Non-Fiction: I Am Malala: How One Girl Stood Up for Education and Changed the World (Young Readers Edition) by Malala Yousafzai with Patricia McCormick

This novel tells the true story of Malala Yousafzai who was ten years old when the Taliban took control of her home. Yousafzai stood up for what she believed—women and their right to be educated. On October 9, 2012, she almost lost her life to the cause when she was shot point-blank while riding the bus home from school. She wasn’t expected to survive, but she went on to become the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize winner. This edition is the “young readers edition,” reworked for a younger audience.

Best Series: The Inheritance Cycle Series 4 Book Set Collection Eragon, Eldest, Brisngr by Christopher Paolini

The Inheritance Cycle is a fantasy and adventure series filled with dragons, magic, elves, and mystery. The entertaining dragon stories are perfect for sci-fi fans and those who enjoy battles against all odds. These life-changing stories navigate worlds filled with dark enemies and ancient worlds. Creatively and beautifully written, the series is extremely popular and beloved.