Top 20 Young Adult Novels: Must-Reads (2025 Update)
Young adult fiction (YA) is a genre that is full of amazing books that can stay with you long after you finish reading them. From contemporary stories about coming-of-age and friendship to fantastical adventures in other worlds, there is a YA book out there for everyone.
So if you are looking for a YA book to read that will stay with you long after you finish it, be sure to check out this list!
In this blog post, I will share 20 best YA books that will stay with you long after you finish reading them. These books are all critically acclaimed and popular among readers alike, and they are sure to entertain, inspire, and challenge you.
Related post: 25 Dystopian Movies and TV Series That Will Make You Think: A Must-Watch ListWhat is young adult fiction?
Young adult fiction, often abbreviated as YA fiction, is a genre of literature that is primarily written for and targeted at teenage readers, typically ranging in age from 12 to 18 years old. However, YA literature is also read and enjoyed by many adults. It occupies a unique space in the literary world, as it deals with the complexities and challenges of adolescence, often featuring protagonists who are themselves teenagers.
Young adult fiction (YA) is fiction written for readers from 12 to 18 years of age. It encompasses a wide range of genres, including contemporary, fantasy, sci-fi, thriller, mystery, historical, romance, and more.
YA fiction is typically characterized by its focus on the experiences of young adults, such as coming-of-age, identity, relationships, and first love. It also often explores complex themes such as bullying, mental health, substance abuse, and social justice.
Key characteristics of young adult fiction include:
- Protagonists: The main characters in YA fiction are usually teenagers or young adults, and the stories often revolve around their experiences, emotions, and growth as they navigate the challenges of adolescence.
- Themes: YA fiction covers a wide range of themes, including coming of age, identity, friendship, family, romance, self-discovery, and personal growth. It can also explore more mature or serious topics such as mental health issues, social justice, and difficult life choices.
- Writing Style: YA literature is typically written in a style that is accessible and engaging for its target audience. The prose is often straightforward, and the pacing is designed to keep young readers invested in the story.
- Diversity: YA fiction strives to represent the diverse experiences and backgrounds of young people, offering a variety of perspectives and voices. It addresses issues related to race, gender, sexuality, and more.
- Popularity: YA fiction has gained immense popularity in recent years, with numerous bestsellers and adaptations into other media, including film and television. This has contributed to its widespread appeal beyond its intended teenage audience.
- Subgenres: YA literature includes a wide range of subgenres, such as contemporary YA, fantasy, science fiction, dystopian, romance, mystery, and more. This diversity allows young readers to explore a variety of genres and themes.
Prominent examples of YA fiction include "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins, "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green, "Harry Potter" series by J.K. Rowling, "The Maze Runner" by James Dashner, and "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas, among many others.
While young adult fiction is written with teenagers in mind, it has the power to resonate with readers of all ages and is often celebrated for its ability to address universal themes and emotions.
YA fiction is a popular genre for both teenagers and adults alike. It is known for its relatable characters, engaging storylines, and thought-provoking themes. YA fiction can help readers to explore their own identities and experiences, and to learn about the world around them.
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20 Best Young Adult Books for Teens & Adults (Updated 2025)
Determining the "best" YA fiction books can be somewhat subjective, as personal preferences and opinions vary widely. However, here's a list of some highly acclaimed and popular YA fiction books that have received both critical praise and a strong following among readers:
2025 Update: We've refreshed this list with 5 exciting new additions and updated descriptions, bringing you the best YA reads for 2025!
1. The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins
Okay, guys, if you haven't heard of The Hunger Games, where have you been?! This dystopian masterpiece completely captivated me when I first read it. The story follows Katniss Everdeen, a fierce and resourceful young woman who volunteers as tribute in the annual Hunger Games, a televised spectacle where teens are forced to fight to the death. It's a gripping story about survival, rebellion, and the power of hope in the face of unimaginable cruelty. It's intense, thought-provoking, and you absolutely won't be able to put it down. Trust me on this one.
The Hunger Games Series:
- The Hunger Games
- Catching Fire
- Mockingjay
2. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Prepare to have your heartstrings tugged! John Green has a way of writing characters that feel so real, and The Fault in Our Stars is a perfect example. This book tells the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, two teenagers who meet at a cancer support group and fall in love. It’s a beautiful and heartbreaking story about love, loss, and finding joy in the midst of hardship. It’s definitely a tearjerker, so have some tissues handy, but it's also filled with humor and hope. It’s a book that will stay with you long after you finish it.3. Divergent Series by Veronica Roth
Another amazing dystopian read! Divergent introduces us to Beatrice "Tris" Prior, who lives in a future Chicago where society is divided into five factions based on personality traits. Tris discovers she's Divergent, meaning she doesn't fit neatly into any one faction, which makes her a threat. This book is full of action, suspense, and explores themes of identity, courage, and self-discovery. It's an exciting and fast-paced read that will keep you on the edge of your seat.Divergent Series:
- Divergent
- Insurgent
- Allegiant
4. Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
This book is pure sweetness and nostalgia. Eleanor & Park is a coming-of-age story about two misfits, Eleanor and Park, who find each other in 1986. Eleanor is the new girl with unruly red hair and a chaotic home life, and Park is the quiet, comic-book-loving boy who sits next to her on the bus. Their relationship is awkward, beautiful, and so relatable. It’s a story about first love, acceptance, and finding your place in the world. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves a good romance with a touch of realism.5. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
Okay, I had to include this classic! Even though it's technically middle grade, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone is a book that transcends age. This is where it all began, introducing us to the magical world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and the boy who lived, Harry Potter. It’s a story about friendship, courage, and believing in magic. If you haven't already experienced the magic of Harry Potter, now is the time!Harry Potter Series:
- Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
- Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
- Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
- Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
- Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
- Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
- Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
6. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Get ready for a heist! Six of Crows is a thrilling and intricate fantasy novel that follows a crew of six outcasts as they attempt to pull off an impossible heist. Leigh Bardugo has created a richly detailed world and characters that you'll instantly become invested in. This book is full of twists, turns, and unexpected alliances. It's dark, gritty, and utterly captivating. If you love stories with complex characters, high stakes, and a touch of magic, you absolutely need to read this one.
Six of Crows Duology:
- Six of Crows
- Crooked Kingdom
7. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
This book is a classic coming-of-age story that perfectly captures the awkwardness and beauty of adolescence. The Perks of Being a Wallflower tells the story of Charlie, a shy and introverted teenager who is navigating the challenges of high school, first love, and finding his place in the world. It's a poignant and relatable story about friendship, self-discovery, and the importance of human connection. This book is both heartwarming and heartbreaking, and it's one that will resonate with readers of all ages.
8. The Giver by Lois Lowry
The Giver is a powerful and thought-provoking dystopian novel that has stayed with me for years. It tells the story of Jonas, a young boy who lives in a seemingly perfect community where there is no pain, suffering, or emotion. When Jonas is selected to be the Receiver of Memory, he begins to learn the truth about the world and the sacrifices that have been made to create this utopia. This book raises important questions about memory, emotion, and the value of human experience. It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking and impactful stories.
The Giver Quartet:
- The Giver
- Gathering Blue
- Messenger
- Son
9. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
If you're looking for a captivating blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure, look no further than A Court of Thorns and Roses. This book follows Feyre, a young huntress who is drawn into the magical world of the Fae. It's a story filled with mythical creatures, dangerous quests, and a swoon-worthy romance. Sarah J. Maas has created a world that is both enchanting and dangerous, and you'll be completely hooked from the first page.
A Court of Thorns and Roses Series:
- A Court of Thorns and Roses
- A Court of Mist and Fury
- A Court of Wings and Ruin
- A Court of Frost and Starlight
- A Court1 of Silver Flames
10. The Maze Runner by James Dashner
Talk about a page-turner! The Maze Runner is a thrilling dystopian novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The story follows Thomas, who wakes up in a mysterious place called the Glade with no memory of his past. He and a group of other teenagers are trapped in a giant maze, and they must work together to find a way out. This book is full of suspense, mystery, and heart-pounding action. It's a perfect read for anyone who loves a good adventure story.
The Maze Runner Series:
- The Maze Runner
- The Scorch Trials
- The Death Cure
- The Kill Order
- Fever Code
11. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
The Hate U Give is a powerful and timely novel that tackles important issues of race, police brutality, and social justice. The story follows Starr Carter, a sixteen-year-old girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her best friend by a police officer. Starr must navigate the complexities of her two worlds: her poor neighborhood and her predominantly white prep school, while also finding her voice and standing up for what's right. This book is moving, thought-provoking, and incredibly relevant to today’s world. It's a must-read for everyone.
12. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Told from the unique perspective of Death, The Book Thief is a haunting and beautiful story set in Nazi Germany. The book follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who is sent to live with foster parents and learns to read with stolen books. It’s a story about the power of words, the resilience of the human spirit, and the importance of finding hope in the darkest of times. This book is both heartbreaking and uplifting, and it’s one that will stay with you long after you finish it.
13. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han
This book is pure rom-com perfection! To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before tells the story of Lara Jean Song Covey, a teenage girl who writes love letters to all the boys she’s ever had a crush on but never intends to send. When the letters mysteriously get mailed out, Lara Jean’s life takes a hilarious and unexpected turn. This book is sweet, charming, and utterly addictive. It’s the perfect feel-good read for anyone who loves a good romance.
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before Trilogy:
- To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before
- P.S. I Still Love You
14. Looking for Alaska by John Green
Another fantastic book by John Green! Looking for Alaska is a coming-of-age story about Miles Halter, a teenager who leaves his boring life behind to attend boarding school in Alabama. There, he meets Alaska Young, a charismatic and enigmatic girl who changes his life forever. This book explores themes of friendship, love, loss, and the search for meaning. It’s a poignant and thought-provoking story that will resonate with readers of all ages.
15. We Were Liars by E. Lockhart
We Were Liars is a suspenseful and twisty thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. The story follows the wealthy Sinclair family, who spend their summers on a private island. During one summer, something tragic happens to one of the family members, and the truth is slowly revealed through fragmented memories and unreliable narrators. This book is atmospheric, mysterious, and utterly captivating. You won’t be able to put it down until you uncover the shocking truth.
16. Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda – Becky Albertalli
This book is so heartwarming and important! Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda tells the story of Simon Spier, a closeted gay teenager who is forced to come out when his emails to a mysterious classmate are leaked. It's a sweet, funny, and ultimately moving story about self-discovery, acceptance, and the importance of being true to yourself. This book is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt different or struggled to find their place.
17. Speak – Laurie Halse Anderson
Speak is a powerful and poignant novel that deals with the difficult topic of sexual assault. The story follows Melinda Sordino, a high school freshman who becomes an outcast after a traumatic event at a party. Through her art and inner monologue, Melinda slowly begins to find her voice and confront her trauma. This book is raw, honest, and incredibly important. It's a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the impact of trauma and the importance of speaking up.
18. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe – Benjamin Alire Sáenz
This book is a beautiful and tender coming-of-age story about two Mexican-American teenagers, Aristotle and Dante, who form a deep and meaningful friendship. Set in the summer of 1987, the book explores themes of identity, family, love, and self-discovery. It’s a quiet and introspective story that will stay with you long after you finish it. The writing is gorgeous, and the characters are so real and relatable.
19. Twilight – Stephenie Meyer
Okay, whether you loved it or loved to hate it, Twilight was a cultural phenomenon! This book introduced us to Bella Swan, a teenage girl who moves to Forks, Washington, and falls in love with Edward Cullen, a mysterious and alluring vampire. It’s a story filled with romance, suspense, and supernatural elements. It definitely sparked a huge interest in paranormal romance and continues to be a popular read.
Twilight Saga:
- Twilight
- New Moon
- Eclipse
- Breaking Dawn
20. Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief – Rick Riordan
This book is a fantastic introduction to Greek mythology for young readers (and adults too!). Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief tells the story of Percy Jackson, a seemingly ordinary boy who discovers he is the son of Poseidon, the Greek god of the sea. He’s thrust into a world of gods, monsters, and mythical quests. It’s a fun, action-packed adventure that will captivate readers of all ages.
Percy Jackson & The Olympians:
- The Lightning Thief
- The Sea of Monsters
- The Titan's Curse
- The Battle of the Labyrinth
- The Last Olympian
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