Encouraging teens to read for enjoyment, beyond just academic obligations, fosters a lifelong appreciation for literature. Young adult (YA) novels are pivotal in cultivating this passion, offering a wide range of genres from romance to science fiction and mysteries that allow young readers to explore new worlds. A compelling YA novel not only ignites the imagination but also encourages critical thinking and diverse perspectives, making the vastness of the world seem both boundless and accessible.
In an age where screen time dominates, nurturing a love for reading is more essential than ever. The American Psychological Association indicates that fewer than 20% of teens read newspapers, magazines, or books on a daily basis, and a staggering one-third of them haven’t picked up a book for pleasure in over a year. Captivating narratives featuring relatable characters can entice them to turn the page and lose themselves in a story. With many after-school activities on hold due to recent global events, now is the perfect opportunity to inspire a passion for reading.
Below is a curated list of celebrated YA novels, ranging from a classic written in the 1960s to a contemporary teen romantic comedy set in a Texas beauty pageant. As you prepare to build your home library, consider allocating a shelf for these fantastic 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 by Kiera Cass
- Midnight Sun by Stephenie Meyer
- Divergent by Veronica Roth
Notable Books for Teenage Girls
- Tweet Cute: A Novel 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 teens intrigued by mysteries or true crime, What We Buried tells the story of two siblings, one a famous figure seeking independence from their parents, while the other feels overshadowed. Together, they must unravel the mystery of their parents’ disappearance and confront hidden family truths.
Classic literature also holds an important place in a teenager’s reading journey:
- The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
- Tiger Eyes by Judy Blume
- The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
- The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie
These selections lay a solid foundation for any YA library. For further recommendations, be sure to explore our post on 20 LGBTQ Books For Kids and dive into more options that include memoirs and nonfiction, such as 30 Books Every Teenager Needs to Read.
As a recommendation, Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell offers a heartfelt portrayal of first love amidst various life challenges, while I’ll Give You the Sun showcases the bond between artistically gifted twins navigating family turmoil. Dumplin’ features a teenager challenging societal norms and her own insecurities by participating in a beauty pageant, while What We Buried unearths secrets through a gripping investigation.
These acclaimed titles not only entertain but also provide valuable insights into diverse experiences, perfect for fostering discussions about real-world issues.
In summary, introducing your teen to these engaging YA novels can spark their interest in literature, encouraging them to explore new ideas and perspectives as they grow. For more resources on pregnancy and home insemination, consider visiting In Vitro Fertilisation for comprehensive information and guidance.
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