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Young Adult Books

588 books in this category • Page 1 of 25

'Til Death by Busayo Matuluko

'Til Death

by Busayo Matuluko

'Til Death is a high-octane Young Adult mystery thriller that transports readers to the vibrant and glamorous city of Lagos, Nigeria. True-crime enthusiast Lara Oyinlola is thrilled to attend her cousin Dérin’s star-studded wedding, expecting a holiday filled with glitzy parties and fashion. However, the celebration takes a dark turn when anonymous threats emerge, demanding the wedding be canceled. Lara decides to put her sleuthing skills to the test, but she soon discovers that the family’s polished exterior hides a web of dangerous secrets and malicious intent.

This addictive debut is perfect for fans of Holly Jackson and Karen M. McManus who enjoy fast-paced "whodunit" mysteries with high stakes. Author Busayo Matuluko brilliantly weaves Nigerian culture and family dynamics into a suspenseful narrative filled with gossip, drama, and near-death encounters. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in diverse voices, amateur detectives, and stories where every character has something to hide. The blend of humor and tension makes it a compulsive read that is hard to put down.

Highlights:

  • A gripping amateur detective mystery set in the heart of Lagos, Nigeria.
  • Rich exploration of Nigerian family traditions, culture, and social dynamics.
  • Perfect for fans of A Good Girl's Guide to Murder and One of Us Is Lying.
  • Features a relatable, true-crime-obsessed protagonist navigating complex family secrets.
  • A thrilling mix of glamour, gossip, and high-stakes suspense.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultMystery and Detective+1 more
A Burning in the Bones by Scott Reintgen

A Burning in the Bones

by Scott Reintgen

A Burning in the Bones is the pulse-pounding conclusion to Scott Reintgen’s bestselling Waxways series. In this final installment, Ren and Theo find themselves at the center of a political storm as they attempt to reform the corrupt system of Kathor. However, their plans are derailed by a mysterious and deadly plague that threatens to consume the city. With corpses appearing in strategic locations and magic itself under threat, the stakes have never been higher for the survivors of House Brood.

This epic finale is perfect for children and teens who love high-stakes fantasy and intricate world-building. Ideal for readers interested in political maneuvering, dark mysteries, and stories where the cost of survival is high. Parents will find this a great choice for fans of Leigh Bardugo or Sabaa Tahir, offering a sophisticated narrative that explores themes of power, corruption, and the strength of found family. It is an edge-of-your-seat adventure that rewards long-time followers of the series with a satisfying and intense resolution.

Highlights:

  • The thrilling conclusion to the acclaimed Waxways trilogy.
  • A complex blend of political intrigue and dark magical mystery.
  • High-stakes action featuring a race against a city-wide plague.
  • Deep exploration of loyalty, sacrifice, and the weight of leadership.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+2 more
A Court of Frost and Starlight by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Frost and Starlight

by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Frost and Starlight is a captivating bridge in the world-renowned A Court of Thorns and Roses series. Following the devastating events of the war against Hybern, Feyre, Rhysand, and their close-knit circle of friends are focused on the monumental task of rebuilding the Night Court. As the Winter Solstice approaches, the city of Velaris prepares for celebration, offering a much-needed reprieve from the shadows of the past. This novella provides a deeply personal look at how the characters navigate their trauma and find hope in the midst of recovery.

Ideal for readers who love immersive world-building and complex character dynamics, this book is a must-read for fans of epic fantasy and romantic subplots. It beautifully balances the festive atmosphere of the solstice with the poignant reality of healing from war. Parents looking for books that explore themes of resilience and the importance of community will find this a compelling addition to a teen's library. It is a great choice for those who enjoy stories about found families and the enduring power of love.

Highlights:

  • A heartwarming exploration of the bonds between friends and chosen family.
  • Provides essential character development bridging major series installments.
  • A beautifully atmospheric setting centered around the Winter Solstice celebrations.
  • Focuses on emotional healing and resilience after significant conflict.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Mist and Fury

by Sarah J. Maas

In this breathtaking sequel to A Court of Thorns and Roses, Feyre has escaped the clutches of Amarantha, but the scars of her trials remain. Now possessing the powers of the High Fae, she struggles to find her place in the Spring Court while haunted by the deeds she performed to save her people. As her relationship with Tamlin becomes increasingly restrictive, Feyre must honor a bargain made with the mysterious Rhysand, High Lord of the Night Court, leading her into a world of dark politics and dazzling power.

This sweeping epic is ideal for readers interested in complex world-building and deep character development. Sarah J. Maas crafts a story of resilience and transformation that is perfect for fans who love high-stakes fantasy and intricate romantic subplots. As a greater evil threatens the land, Feyre must learn to harness her new gifts and decide where her true loyalties lie in a world on the brink of war.

Highlights:

  • Deep exploration of healing and emotional resilience.
  • Expansive world-building featuring the diverse Fae Courts.
  • Compelling character arcs and evolving relationships.
  • High-stakes political intrigue and magical battles.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Silver Flames

by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Silver Flames is a sweeping epic fantasy that continues the beloved saga of the Night Court. This installment focuses on Nesta Archeron, a fierce and prickly protagonist struggling to find her place in a world changed by war. Forced into the Cauldron and reborn as High Fae, Nesta must navigate her internal demons and the trauma of her past. Alongside the battle-scarred warrior Cassian, she embarks on a journey of physical and emotional training that is as intense as it is transformative. This book is ideal for readers interested in complex character growth, high-stakes political intrigue, and deeply emotional narratives.

Perfect for older teens and fans of immersive world-building, this story explores the power of resilience and the importance of finding one's own strength. As Nesta and Cassian face external threats from treacherous human queens and internal monsters of doubt, they discover that healing is a battle won one day at a time. It is a great choice for those who love enemies-to-lovers tropes and stories where characters must overcome significant personal hurdles to save their world.

Highlights:

  • Deep exploration of mental health, trauma recovery, and personal resilience.
  • Intense training sequences and epic fantasy world-building.
  • A compelling romance between two complex, powerful characters.
  • High-stakes political drama involving ancient alliances and new threats.
  • A story of sisterhood, belonging, and finding inner peace.
Ages 15+Young Adult
FantasyYoung Adult+2 more
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and Roses

by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Thorns and Roses is a captivating blend of high fantasy and intense romance, perfect for readers who love immersive world-building and complex characters. When nineteen-year-old Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, she is dragged into a magical, dangerous realm by a mysterious faerie lord named Tamlin. What begins as a captive's struggle for survival soon evolves into a passionate journey of discovery, as Feyre learns that the legends she grew up fearing are far more complicated than she ever imagined.

This book is an ideal choice for older teens and fans of Beauty and the Beast retellings who are looking for a story filled with magic, political intrigue, and high-stakes adventure. Sarah J. Maas crafts a world where the lines between hero and villain are blurred, making it a great choice for readers interested in character-driven epics. As Feyre uncovers a dark shadow threatening the faerie lands, she must find the strength to fight for her new home and the people she has grown to love.

Highlights:

  • A thrilling reimagining of classic fairy tale tropes with a mature twist.
  • Richly detailed world-building featuring the diverse courts of the Fae.
  • A strong, resilient female protagonist who undergoes significant growth.
  • Perfect for fans of epic fantasy series like The Cruel Prince or Throne of Glass.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Wings and Ruin

by Sarah J. Maas

A Court of Wings and Ruin is the breathtaking third installment in Sarah J. Maas’s globally acclaimed series. As war looms on the horizon, Feyre Archeron must navigate a treacherous game of politics and deceit within the Spring Court. This epic fantasy is perfect for readers who love immersive world-building, high-stakes battles, and complex characters who must fight for the survival of their world. It is an ideal choice for those interested in stories of resilience and the power of chosen family.

Feyre’s journey from a human hunter to a powerful High Fae reaches a turning point as she and Rhysand gather allies among the lethal High Lords. The narrative masterfully balances intense action with deeply emotional moments, making it a great choice for fans of romantic fantasy and intricate plot twists. Readers will be captivated by the evolving relationships and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters as they prepare for the ultimate confrontation against the King of Hybern.

Highlights:

  • Epic high-fantasy world-building with intricate Fae politics.
  • High-stakes action and strategic warfare.
  • Deeply developed romance and exploration of loyalty.
  • Themes of sacrifice, leadership, and self-discovery.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
A Door in the Dark by Scott Reintgen

A Door in the Dark

by Scott Reintgen

A Door in the Dark is a gripping dark academia fantasy thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. When a portal spell goes horribly wrong, Ren Monroe and five other teenage wizards find themselves stranded in a brutal wilderness far from the safety of Balmerick University. With limited magic and one of their classmates already dead, the group must rely on Ren’s lifelong survival skills to navigate the treacherous woods. However, the physical dangers are only the beginning, as deep-seated secrets and personal rivalries threaten to tear the group apart from within.

This pulse-pounding adventure is perfect for readers who love Naomi Novik’s The Scholomance series or Leigh Bardugo’s Ninth House. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in high-stakes survival stories, complex magic systems, and the atmospheric 'dark academia' aesthetic. Parents looking for a mature, thought-provoking fantasy for their teens will find this a compelling pick that explores themes of class, trust, and the cost of ambition. It is a great choice for those who love a mix of mystery and magic in a survivalist setting.

Highlights:

  • A high-stakes dark academia survival thriller with a unique magic system.
  • Explores complex social dynamics between elite and scholarship students.
  • Perfect for readers who enjoy intense, atmospheric fantasy with a touch of horror.
  • Features a strong, resourceful female protagonist driven by grit and determination.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
A Forgery of Fate by Elizabeth Lim

A Forgery of Fate

by Elizabeth Lim

A Forgery of Fate is a spellbinding romantic fantasy that reimagines the classic 'Beauty and the Beast' tale with a high-stakes, mythological twist. Perfect for fans of Six Crimson Cranes and readers who love stories about magical art and forbidden romance, this novel follows Truyan Saigas, a gifted art forger who can paint the future. To save her family from crushing debt, Tru enters a dangerous marriage contract with a mysterious dragon lord, leading her into a world of undersea palaces and treasonous plots against the gods.

This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in complex world-building, East Asian-inspired folklore, and strong female protagonists who must navigate moral grey zones. Elizabeth Lim’s lush prose and intricate plotting make this a must-read for teens who enjoy immersive fantasy adventures where the line between truth and deception is constantly blurred. It is a great choice for those who appreciate themes of family loyalty and the weight of destiny.

Highlights:

  • A unique magic system centered around painting the future and art forgery.
  • A breathtaking romantic fantasy inspired by dragon mythology and classic fairy tales.
  • High-stakes political intrigue set in a desolate undersea palace.
  • A compelling story of family sacrifice and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
A Language of Dragons by S.F. Williamson

A Language of Dragons

by S.F. Williamson

Step into an alternate 1920s London where dragons fill the skies and secrets lurk in every shadow. A Language of Dragons is a breathtaking Dark Academia fantasy that follows Vivien Featherswallow, a young woman determined to protect her sister from a rigid class system. When a sudden civil war upends her life, Vivien is thrust into the high-stakes world of Bletchley Park. Recruited as a codebreaker, she must decipher a hidden dragon language to save her family, only to realize that the war she is fighting is far more complex than she ever imagined.

This gripping debut is perfect for readers who love historical fantasy with a twist of mystery and suspense. With its slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance and intricate world-building, it is an ideal choice for fans of Fourth Wing and Babel. Parents looking for a sophisticated, immersive read for their teens will find this story of courage and discovery absolutely unputdownable.

Highlights:

  • A unique "Bletchley Park with dragons" setting in 1920s London.
  • High-stakes codebreaking and linguistic puzzles involving ancient dragon tongues.
  • A compelling slow-burn romance and complex character growth.
  • Explores deep themes of social class, family loyalty, and political intrigue.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
A Map of Days by Ransom Riggs

A Map of Days

by Ransom Riggs

A Map of Days marks a thrilling new chapter in the beloved Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children series. After defeating the monstrous threats of the Old World, Jacob Portman returns to Florida, but he isn't alone. Accompanied by Miss Peregrine and his peculiar friends, Jacob attempts to navigate a "normal" life. However, the discovery of a secret bunker belonging to his grandfather, Abe, reveals a hidden legacy of dangerous missions and untold secrets. Jacob and his friends are soon thrust into the wild, lawless landscape of American peculiardom, where new wonders and terrifying dangers await.

This installment is perfect for children and teens who love immersive world-building and dark, atmospheric storytelling. Ideal for readers interested in urban fantasy and historical mysteries, Ransom Riggs continues to blend narrative with haunting vintage photographs, now including full-color images. It is a great choice for fans of the previous trilogy who are eager to see how the peculiar world expands into the United States, offering a more mature exploration of identity and responsibility.

Highlights:

  • An exciting expansion of the peculiar world into modern-day America.
  • Deepens the mystery of Jacob’s family history and his grandfather’s double life.
  • Features the series' signature haunting vintage photography and new color images.
  • Explores complex themes of legacy, independence, and finding one's place in the world.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
A Mastery of Monsters by Liselle Sambury

A Mastery of Monsters

by Liselle Sambury

A Mastery of Monsters is a gripping dark academia fantasy that plunges readers into a world where monsters are real and secret societies hold the keys to survival. When August’s brother vanishes from his college campus, she refuses to believe he simply walked away. Her search leads her to a terrifying encounter with a supernatural creature and an unlikely alliance with Virgil Hawthorne, a bookish boy hiding a monstrous secret. To find her brother, August must enter a deadly competition to join a mysterious society, navigating a landscape of blood, betrayal, and ancient magic.

This novel is perfect for children who love Legendborn and Ninth House and crave high-stakes tension and complex world-building. Ideal for readers interested in dark academia, urban fantasy, and stories about the lengths one will go to protect their family. With its atmospheric setting and bold narrative, it is a great choice for older teens looking for a mature, immersive fantasy series that explores the thin line between humanity and monstrosity.

Highlights:

  • A high-stakes deadly competition plot set within a secret society.
  • Compelling dark academia atmosphere with a focus on mystery and supernatural lore.
  • A strong, determined female protagonist driven by family loyalty and resilience.
  • Exploration of complex themes like identity, loss, and the nature of monsters.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
A Stage Over Ruthless Stars by J.J. Clapton

A Stage Over Ruthless Stars

by J.J. Clapton

Aznan is a brilliant inventor with a big dream and a difficult reality. Living on a space station with a chronic illness that makes gravity his greatest enemy, he has dropped out of school to focus on the one thing that could change his life: the system's biggest tech competition. Set against the vibrant and dizzying backdrop of a space station circus, Aznan must showcase his homemade technology to titans of industry. But to win, he must reconnect with Kairo, his ex-best friend turned aerialist, whom he hasn't spoken to in three years.

The stakes turn deadly when competitors start turning up dead. What was supposed to be a showcase of innovation quickly becomes a race for survival as Aznan and Kairo realize a killer is stalking the Grand Showcase. This gripping science fiction mystery is perfect for readers who love high-stakes competitions, complex character dynamics, and stories featuring disability representation. It is an ideal choice for fans of futuristic thrillers that blend technical ingenuity with deep emotional resonance.

Highlights:

  • Unique space station circus setting with high-tech stakes
  • Strong representation of a protagonist living with chronic illness
  • Compelling LGBTQ+ themes and complex relationship dynamics
  • Fast-paced murder mystery with a rising body count
  • Themes of perseverance and reclaiming one's future
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultScience Fiction+3 more
A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid

A Study in Drowning

by Ava Reid

A Study in Drowning is a hauntingly atmospheric dark academic fantasy that transports readers to the crumbling, salt-swept Hiraeth Manor. Effy Sayre, a young architecture student, has spent her life finding solace in the pages of her favorite epic, Angharad. When she wins a contest to redesign the late author's estate, she believes it is her destiny. However, she soon finds herself clashing with Preston Héloury, a skeptical literature scholar who is determined to prove the author was a fraud. As the two rivals navigate the decaying manor, they uncover secrets that blur the line between reality and folklore.

This Gothic mystery is perfect for children and teens who love The Atlas Six or House of Salt and Sorrows. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in lyrical prose, complex female protagonists, and the 'rivals-to-lovers' trope. Parents will appreciate the book's exploration of truth, legacy, and the power of stories to shape our world. With its dreamlike atmosphere and high-stakes tension, it is a great choice for older teens who enjoy immersive, magical realism and historical settings.

Highlights:

  • A lush, Gothic atmosphere set in a decaying seaside manor.
  • A compelling 'rivals-to-lovers' romance between two determined scholars.
  • Deep exploration of folklore, mythology, and the reliability of history.
  • Perfect for fans of dark academia and lyrical fantasy.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
A Swiftly Tilting Planet by Madeleine L'Engle

A Swiftly Tilting Planet

by Madeleine L'Engle

In A Swiftly Tilting Planet, Madeleine L'Engle takes readers on a breathtaking journey through time and space. Fifteen-year-old Charles Wallace Murry must embark on a perilous quest to prevent a nuclear catastrophe orchestrated by a mad dictator. Accompanied by the majestic unicorn Gaudior, Charles Wallace travels through different eras, entering the lives of people whose choices will determine the fate of the world. This classic novel is perfect for children who love high-stakes adventures and readers interested in the intersection of science, myth, and morality.

While Charles Wallace faces physical and spiritual trials, his sister Meg remains his anchor through the telepathic power of 'kything.' This deep emotional connection adds a layer of intimacy to the epic scale of the story. It is an ideal choice for fans of A Wrinkle in Time who are looking for a more mature and complex exploration of the battle between light and darkness. Parents will appreciate the book's focus on faith, the power of individual choices, and the enduring strength of family bonds.

Highlights:

  • A thrilling blend of science fiction, fantasy, and historical fiction.
  • Explores deep themes of interconnectedness and the impact of history on the present.
  • Features a unique telepathic bond between siblings that transcends time.
  • Perfect for readers who enjoy philosophical questions and cosmic adventures.
Ages 12-14Young Adult
Science FictionFantasy+3 more
A Theory of Dreaming by Ava Reid

A Theory of Dreaming

by Ava Reid

In this atmospheric and high-stakes sequel to A Study in Drowning, Effy Sayre has finally achieved her dream of enrolling in the prestigious literature college—the first woman in history to do so. But the victory feels hollow as the weight of the nation's expectations and the lingering shadows of the Fairy King haunt her every move. This dark academic fantasy is perfect for readers who love stories about breaking barriers, uncovering hidden histories, and the power of storytelling.

As a brutal war erupts between Llyr and Argant, Effy and her companion Preston find themselves pulled into a web of political intrigue and supernatural peril. While Effy struggles to find her place in a world that wants her to fail, Preston is plagued by vivid, terrifying dreams of an underwater palace that begin to bleed into his waking life. Ideal for fans of gothic atmosphere and psychological depth, this novel explores whether we can ever truly escape our nightmares or if they are simply another part of who we are.

Highlights:

  • A compelling exploration of dark academia and feminist resilience.
  • Richly detailed world-building rooted in folklore and mythology.
  • Intense emotional stakes and a complex, evolving romance.
  • Perfect for fans of atmospheric historical fantasy and psychological thrillers.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
A Treachery of Swans by A.B. Poranek

A Treachery of Swans

by A.B. Poranek

A Treachery of Swans is an enchanting and dark sapphic retelling of the classic Swan Lake ballet, perfect for readers who love high-stakes fantasy and complex romances. In a kingdom where magic is forbidden, Odile has been trained by a sorcerer for one specific purpose: to steal the enchanted crown and restore magic to Aureal. Her plan involves a dangerous heist where she must impersonate a princess and infiltrate the royal palace. However, the mission takes a deadly turn when the King is murdered, forcing Odile into an uneasy alliance with the real princess, Marie.

As Odile and Marie work together to uncover a web of political deceit, their connection deepens into something more than just a partnership. This atmospheric novel is ideal for fans of Allison Saft and V.E. Schwab who enjoy stories about moral ambiguity, secret identities, and the struggle between duty and desire. It is a great choice for older teens looking for a lush, folkloric world filled with mystery and emotional depth.

Highlights:

  • A captivating sapphic romance set against a backdrop of royal intrigue.
  • A unique, dark reimagining of the Swan Lake fairy tale.
  • High-stakes heist elements combined with a murder mystery.
  • Explores powerful themes of trust, identity, and the cost of magic.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+3 more
Abhorsen by Garth Nix

Abhorsen

by Garth Nix

Abhorsen is the breathtaking conclusion to Garth Nix’s legendary Old Kingdom trilogy. As the ancient and malevolent Destroyer nears its freedom, the fate of the world rests on the shoulders of Lirael and Prince Sameth. With the Abhorsen Sabriel missing, these young heroes must journey across a land besieged by dark necromancy and Shadow Hands. Accompanied by the mysterious Mogget and the faithful Disreputable Dog, they face an apocalyptic battle that pits the forces of Life and Death against total annihilation.

This epic fantasy novel is perfect for readers who love intricate world-building, high-stakes magic, and dark, atmospheric storytelling. Garth Nix masterfully blends elements of horror with a classic quest narrative, making it an ideal choice for fans of epic fantasy who enjoy complex magic systems. The emotional depth and moral choices make this a compelling read for teens and adults alike who are interested in stories about finding one's purpose in the face of overwhelming odds.

Highlights:

  • An epic and unforgettable conclusion to a beloved fantasy trilogy.
  • Unique magic system involving necromancy and the use of seven bells.
  • Strong, well-developed protagonists facing immense personal growth and sacrifice.
  • A dark and atmospheric setting that masterfully blends fantasy with elements of horror.
  • Perfect for fans of high-stakes adventures and complex world-building.
Ages 12-14Young Adult
FantasyAdventure+2 more
After Life by Gayle Forman

After Life

by Gayle Forman

Gayle Forman, the acclaimed author of If I Stay, returns with a haunting and deeply emotional story that blurs the lines between life and death. When Amber arrives home on her bicycle one spring afternoon, it seems like a normal day—except for the fact that Amber died seven years ago. Her sudden, inexplicable return sends shockwaves through her small community, forcing her sister, her estranged parents, and her former boyfriend to confront the grief they thought they had processed. This poignant novel explores the ripple effects of a single life and the complicated nature of second chances.

Perfect for readers who enjoy high-concept contemporary fiction with a supernatural twist, After Life is an ideal choice for fans of emotional journeys and complex family dynamics. It is a great choice for those who loved The Lovely Bones or Elsewhere, offering a unique perspective on how we remember those we've lost and how we define ourselves in the wake of tragedy. As Amber struggles to understand why she has been brought back, readers are invited to reflect on the lasting impact of love and the mystery of the human spirit.

Highlights:

  • A gripping supernatural premise grounded in realistic emotional stakes.
  • Explores profound themes of grief, healing, and family reconciliation.
  • Written by best-selling author Gayle Forman, known for powerful YA storytelling.
  • Perfect for fans of character-driven stories with a touch of mystery.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultFantasy+2 more
Alanna: The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce

Alanna: The First Adventure

by Tamora Pierce

Alanna of Trebond is a young girl who dreams of becoming a legendary knight, but in the kingdom of Tortall, girls are forbidden from such a path. Determined to follow her heart, Alanna makes a daring pact with her twin brother, Thom. While he heads off to learn the arts of sorcery, Alanna disguises herself as a boy named Alan and travels to the royal palace to begin her training as a page. This classic fantasy novel is the perfect choice for children who love stories of bravery, secret identities, and magical worlds.

As Alanna navigates the grueling physical demands of knightly training and the complexities of life at court, she must keep her true identity hidden from everyone, including the prince. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in strong female leads who challenge societal expectations. It offers a wonderful blend of action-packed combat, mystical encounters, and the enduring power of friendship. Fans of high fantasy and coming-of-age journeys will find themselves captivated by Alanna's grit and determination.

Highlights:

  • A pioneering tale of a girl breaking barriers to achieve her dreams of knighthood.
  • Engaging world-building that combines medieval chivalry with a unique magic system.
  • Focuses on themes of perseverance, integrity, and the importance of being true to oneself.
Ages 12-14Middle Grade / Young Adult
FantasyAdventure+2 more
Alice by Joseph Delaney

Alice

by Joseph Delaney

Step into the chilling and atmospheric world of Alice, a gripping installment in Joseph Delaney's acclaimed series. This dark fantasy novel follows Alice, a powerful young witch who has long fought alongside the Spook and Tom Ward. Now, she finds herself trapped alone in the terrifying realm of the dark, surrounded by the very creatures she once helped banish. To save the world from eternal despair, Alice must embark on a perilous quest to find the final weapon capable of destroying the Fiend once and for all.

This book is a perfect choice for readers who love high-stakes adventures and eerie, supernatural settings. It explores deep themes of sacrifice and the thin line between light and dark, making it an ideal pick for fans of dark folklore and epic battles. Parents looking for a compelling story about a strong female protagonist facing impossible odds will find this a great choice for their teens. It is a masterclass in building tension and exploring the consequences of one's choices in the face of overwhelming evil.

Highlights:

  • A dark and immersive journey through a supernatural underworld.
  • Features a complex and courageous female lead character.
  • High-stakes conflict involving ancient magic and legendary villains.
  • Perfect for readers who enjoy spooky, atmospheric fantasy series.
Ages 12-14Young Adult
FantasyAdventure+2 more
All American Boys by Jason Reynolds

All American Boys

by Jason Reynolds

All American Boys is a powerful and timely novel that tackles the difficult realities of racial profiling and police brutality through the eyes of two high school students. When Rashad, a Black teenager, is brutally beaten by a police officer after a misunderstanding at a local bodega, the event is witnessed by Quinn, a white classmate who has always looked up to the officer. As the community becomes bitterly divided, both boys must grapple with their own beliefs, loyalties, and the harsh truths of the world around them.

This award-winning story is perfect for readers who are interested in social justice and contemporary issues. Written in alternating perspectives by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely, it offers a raw and nuanced look at systemic racism and the courage required to speak out against injustice. It is an ideal choice for parents and educators looking for books that encourage critical thinking and empathy in young adults, making it a great companion to titles like The Hate U Give.

Highlights:

  • Told through alternating perspectives for a multi-layered narrative.
  • A thought-provoking exploration of racial tension and systemic bias.
  • Encourages deep discussions about privilege, justice, and community.
  • Recipient of the Coretta Scott King Author Honor and Walter Dean Myers Award.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultContemporary and Realistic Fiction
All Better Now by Neal Shusterman

All Better Now

by Neal Shusterman

In All Better Now, acclaimed author Neal Shusterman presents a chillingly relevant dystopian world where a mysterious virus doesn't cause illness, but instead brings about a state of "utter contentment." As stress, greed, and depression vanish from the population, the world seems to finally find peace. However, those in power quickly realize that a happy, satisfied public is bad for a consumerist economy driven by insecurity and anger. Soon, a desperate campaign begins to "cure" people of their happiness and return them to a state of productive discontent.

This gripping novel follows three teenagers from vastly different walks of life who find themselves at the center of a high-stakes conspiracy. As they navigate a landscape of media manipulation and government agendas, they must decide what the truth is worth in a world that prefers a comfortable lie. This book is perfect for readers who love thought-provoking science fiction like Scythe or The Giver, and it is an ideal choice for teens interested in social commentary and political thrillers.

Highlights:

  • A unique "reverse-dystopia" premise that challenges our understanding of happiness and productivity.
  • Complex social commentary on media influence, consumerism, and the pharmaceutical industry.
  • Fast-paced action driven by three distinct and compelling teenage perspectives.
  • A deep exploration of ethics and the price of societal stability in the modern age.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultScience Fiction+2 more
All the Days Past, All the Days to Come by Mildred D. Taylor

All the Days Past, All the Days to Come

by Mildred D. Taylor

All the Days Past, All the Days to Come is the powerful and deeply moving conclusion to Mildred D. Taylor’s legendary Logan family saga. Following the journey of Cassie Logan, whom readers first met in the Newbery Medal-winning Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry, this novel spans decades of American history. From the Great Migration to the heights of the Civil Rights Movement, Cassie’s path takes her across the country—from Ohio and California to law school in Boston—before leading her back home to Mississippi to fight for justice and voter registration in the 1960s.

This book is a perfect choice for readers interested in American history, social justice, and multigenerational family stories. It offers a raw and honest look at the racist society of 20th-century America and the courageous individuals who fought for change. Ideal for fans of historical fiction who want to see how personal growth intertwines with historic milestones, this sweeping epic provides a fulfilling end to one of the most important series in young adult literature.

Highlights:

  • The final chapter of the beloved Logan family saga spanning over forty years of storytelling.
  • A detailed exploration of the Civil Rights Movement and the Great Migration through a personal lens.
  • Follows Cassie Logan's evolution from a spirited girl into a determined lawyer and activist.
  • Rich, evocative prose that captures the struggle and resilience of the African American experience.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultHistorical Fiction+2 more