12 Best Young Adult Books to Read Right Now (2024)

If you’re looking for the perfect summer read, or just need a break from adulthood for a while, young adult books might be just what you need. With their relatable characters and engaging storylines, it’s no wonder YA books have remained popular for decades. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. Here, we’ve compiled a list of the best young adult books to read right now.

Why Young Adult Books Are So Popular

Before we dive into the list, let’s explore why young adult books have become such a cultural phenomenon. One reason is the relatable characters and themes that are often present in YA literature. Teens and young adults can see themselves reflected in the pages of these books and feel understood. Additionally, YA books often have an addictive quality – once you start reading, you can’t put them down. The impact of social media and online book communities has also contributed to the popularity of YA literature, with avid readers sharing their love of these books online.

Relatable Characters and Themes

The relatable characters and themes in YA literature are what make these books so appealing to readers of all ages. Whether it’s a girl navigating a new school, a boy discovering his sexual identity, or a group of teens saving the world from a dystopian government, there is a story for everyone in the young adult genre. These books often tackle heavy topics, such as mental illness or family dysfunction, but do so in a way that is relatable to teen readers.

For example, in the popular book “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green, the main characters Hazel and Augustus both have cancer and are struggling to come to terms with their mortality. This is a heavy topic, but it is presented in a way that is relatable to young readers who may be dealing with similar struggles in their own lives. By seeing characters like themselves in these books, readers can feel less alone and more understood.

Engaging Storylines

Another reason young adult books have become such a cultural phenomenon is the engaging storylines. YA authors know how to create addictive narratives that keep readers on the edge of their seats. From heart-wrenching romance to epic fantasy adventures, there is a young adult book out there for every reader. And because these books are often part of a series, readers can immerse themselves in a world and characters they love for multiple books.

For example, the “Harry Potter” series by J.K. Rowling has captivated readers for over two decades. The story of a young boy who discovers he is a wizard and attends a magical school has become a cultural phenomenon. The series has spawned movies, theme parks, and a massive online fan community. The engaging storyline and relatable characters have made the “Harry Potter” series a beloved classic in the young adult genre.

The Impact of Social Media and Book Communities

Social media and online book communities have played a huge role in the success of young adult literature. Sites like Goodreads and Bookstagram allow readers to connect with one another and share their love of books. This has created a sense of community surrounding young adult literature that has helped to elevate the genre to new heights. Fans of YA books can now connect with authors, attend book signings, and even participate in online book clubs.

For example, the book “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas has become a cultural phenomenon in part due to the online book community. The story of a young black girl who witnesses the police shooting of her friend tackles important issues of race and police brutality. The book has sparked important conversations and has been embraced by the online book community, with readers sharing their thoughts and feelings about the book on social media.

In conclusion, young adult books have become a cultural phenomenon due to their relatable characters and themes, engaging storylines, and the impact of social media and online book communities. These books offer readers a chance to see themselves reflected in the pages and to connect with others who share their love of reading. The young adult genre shows no signs of slowing down, with new and exciting books being released all the time.

The Importance of Diverse Representation in Young Adult Literature

While young adult books have made great strides in recent years in terms of representation, there is still much work to be done. It’s important that all identities are represented in literature, so that readers from all backgrounds can see themselves reflected in the pages of these books. Diverse representation helps to encourage empathy and understanding between people who may not have much in common. It also inspires future writers and storytellers from underrepresented communities to tell their own stories and create their own characters.

Encouraging Empathy and Understanding

Having diverse representation in young adult literature can help readers to better understand the experiences of others. This can lead to increased empathy and understanding between people of different backgrounds. Additionally, when readers see characters who are like them in books, it can help to validate their own experiences. This is particularly important for young readers who may not see themselves represented in other forms of media.

For example, a young reader who is struggling with their identity as a member of the LGBTQ+ community may feel isolated and alone. However, if they see characters in young adult books who share their experiences and identities, they may feel more seen and understood. This can help to build their confidence and self-esteem, as well as encourage them to be more open with others about who they are.

Similarly, a reader who comes from a different cultural background than the one portrayed in mainstream media may feel like an outsider. However, if they see characters in young adult books who come from similar backgrounds, they may feel more connected to the world around them. This can help to break down barriers and promote understanding between different cultures and communities.

Inspiring Future Writers and Storytellers

When young readers see characters who are like them in the books they read, it can inspire them to become writers and storytellers themselves. Seeing people who look like them or come from similar backgrounds succeeding in literature can help to break down barriers and encourage young people to pursue their dreams. This is especially important for readers from underrepresented communities who may not see themselves reflected in other aspects of society.

For example, a young reader who is passionate about writing may feel discouraged if they don’t see anyone who looks like them or comes from a similar background succeeding in the literary world. However, if they see characters in young adult books who share their experiences and identities, they may feel more confident in their ability to tell their own stories. This can help to create a more diverse and inclusive literary landscape, as well as promote greater understanding and empathy between different communities.

In conclusion, diverse representation in young adult literature is essential for promoting empathy, understanding, and inclusivity. By including characters from all backgrounds, authors can help to create a more diverse and representative literary landscape, as well as inspire future writers and storytellers from underrepresented communities. It’s important that we continue to push for greater representation in all forms of media, so that everyone can see themselves reflected in the stories we tell.

Top Contemporary Young Adult Books

“The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas

This powerful novel tells the story of Starr Carter, a teenage girl who witnesses the police shooting of her unarmed friend. It deals with issues of police brutality and racism in a way that is both heart-wrenching and thought-provoking. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for a book that will leave them thinking long after they’ve finished reading.

You can find this book here.

“All the Bright Places” by Jennifer Niven

This heartbreaking story follows two teens, Violet and Finch, as they attempt to navigate school, family issues, and their feelings for each other. But when Finch starts to struggle with his mental health, it threatens to tear them apart. “All the Bright Places” is a powerful exploration of love, loss, and the importance of living for the moment.

“Eleanor & Park” by Rainbow Rowell

This charming romance tells the story of two misfit teenagers, Eleanor and Park, who fall in love despite their differences. Set in the ’80s, this book is a nostalgic trip down memory lane for older readers, and a perfect depiction of first love for younger readers. “Eleanor & Park” is a heartfelt and moving read.

“I’ll Give You the Sun” by Jandy Nelson

This dual perspective novel follows two siblings, Noah and Jude, as they navigate their adolescent years and try to find their places in the world. Through their struggles with sexuality, family, and identity, Noah and Jude’s bond is tested. “I’ll Give You the Sun” is a beautiful exploration of family, art, and the complexities of growing up.

“Leah on the Offbeat” by Becky Albertalli

This hilarious and heartwarming sequel to “Simon vs. the hom*o Sapiens Agenda” follows Leah, Simon’s best friend, as she navigates her senior year of high school. With themes of friendship, identity, and sexuality, “Leah on the Offbeat” is a must-read for anyone who loved the first book.

Top Fantasy and Science Fiction Young Adult Books

“Children of Blood and Bone” by Tomi Adeyemi

This epic fantasy takes place in a world where magic has been forbidden, and follows a young woman named Zélie as she discovers a way to bring it back. With themes of oppression, race, and power, “Children of Blood and Bone” is a gripping read that will have you on the edge of your seat.

“Scythe” by Neal Shusterman

In a future where death has been eradicated, a group of individuals known as Scythes are responsible for keeping the population under control. “Scythe” follows two teens, Citra and Rowan, as they are chosen to learn the ways of the Scythedom. This gripping and thought-provoking book will make you question what it truly means to be alive.

“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins

This classic dystopian novel follows Katniss Everdeen as she becomes a tribute in the annual Hunger Games, a televised fight to the death between children from each district in her world. With themes of government control, sacrifice, and rebellion, “The Hunger Games” is a powerful novel that will have you rooting for Katniss until the very end.

“The Mortal Instruments” series by Cassandra Clare

This urban fantasy series follows a group of teenage Shadowhunters, humans with angelic blood who are charged with protecting the world from demons. With multiple series and spin-offs, “The Mortal Instruments” is a sprawling epic that will keep you entertained for months.

“A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle

This classic science fiction novel follows Meg Murry and her brother Charles Wallace as they travel through space and time to save their father. With themes of love, family, and the power of the human mind, “A Wrinkle in Time” is a timeless classic that has been entertaining readers for generations.

Conclusion: Read These Books Now

Whether you’re in the mood for a contemporary romance or a fantasy epic, there is a young adult book out there for you. The novels on this list represent some of the best works in the genre today, with diverse representation, engaging storylines, and relatable characters. So why not pick up one of these books and lose yourself in a world of young adult literature?