Top 10 Best YA Novels to Enjoy
Whether you’re looking for inspiration for the younger readers in your life, or you need some light but meaningful reading yourself, these young adult novels are classic must-reads.
One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus
This murder mystery looks at the negative effects of gossip and social media as five students are placed in detention but only four come out. What happened to Simon (a student and owner of a notorious gossip app)?
Junk by Melvin Burgess
This controversial novel has won the Carnegie Medal and the Guardian Children's Fiction prize for Burgess' strong character portrayal and excellent writing. This has a powerful portrayal of drug addiction as we follow the love story of teenagers Tar and Gemma.
Forever by Judy Blume
This honest and important book for teens follows the love and sexual relationship of Katherine and Micheal as they discover and discuss sex. Written in 1975, it opened conversations for many young girls — and still does today.
The Catcher in the Rye by J. D. Salinger
Voted the best English-Language novel of all time, this book was aimed at adults first. However, it is in fact a YA novel following the story of Holden Caulfield as he becomes the icon for teenage rebellion.
Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli
Becky Albertalli has written a funny and awkward tale of coming out and crushes, resonating with teenagers and young adults alike.
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
This YA book is inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement and looks at police brutality and the need for integrity. Starr’s worlds collide when she witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood friend.
Noughts & Crosses by Malorie Blackman
Noughts and Crosses explore the reimagining of our world into two social classes. It follows the tale of two school friends, Sephy and Callum, who know the world will disapprove of their love. Inspired by the Stephen Lawrence murder case, Blackmans views of racism and prejudice are still relevant today.
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
A heartbreaking, comical yet thrilling view of life and first love as 13-year-old cancer patient Hazel who is determined to stay aloof and disconnected until she meets Augustus Waters at the He introduces her to great adventures and the potential for enormous loss and grief.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
This dystopian novel not only became a successful film franchise but also paved the way for dozens of YA novels set in a post-apocalyptic setting. Set in a future America where all of society has been divided into 13 districts. The Hunger Games is a fight to the death, where young teens represent their districts.
Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
Set in 1930. Cassie does not understand why the Mississippi farm means so much to her father. She learns how the Ku Klux Klan spread hatred and division in society and she understands what it takes to survive.
How excited are you to get your hands on these books? Start a book club, read with a friend, get your whole class excited about these new books. No matter how old you get you are never too old to start reading or to book bond with a friend.