best books for teens

The Best Books For Teens

In this list

18 books

  1. The Divergent series · Veronica Roth
  2. Everything Everything · Nicola Yoon
  3. The Perks of Being a Wallflower · Stephen Chbosky
  4. Every Body Looking · Candice Iloh
  5. A Short History of the Girl Next Door · Jared Reck
  6. The Fault in Our Stars · John GreenRecommended 4 times
  7. Trapped · Michael Northrop
  8. The Graveyard Book · Neil GaimanRecommended 3 times
  9. The Outsiders · S.E. HintonRecommended 6 times
  10. The Hunger Games · Suzanne CollinsRecommended 4 times
  11. Finding Yvonne · Brandy Colbert
  12. Eleanor & Park · Rainbow RowellRecommended 3 times
  13. The Hate U Give · Angie Thomas
  14. Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging · Louise Rennison
  15. Twilight · Stephenie MeyerRecommended 5 times
  16. Holes · Louis SacharRecommended 3 times
  17. His Dark Materials · Philip PullmanRecommended 5 times
  18. Thirteen Reasons Why · Jay Asher

Why put together a reading list of the best books for teens? Well, most adults can recall their favourite books from adolescence — the ones that made them laugh, cry or think in ways they never had before. What many don’t realize is the important role that reading plays in the development of teenagers. In a world that is often overwhelming and confusing, books can provide a much-needed escape.

They can also help teens to better understand themselves and the world around them. whether it’s through exploring different cultures, gaining new perspectives, or simply losing themselves in a good story, reading offers countless benefits for teenagers. So if you’re looking for the best books for teens, be sure to check out our list. You’ll find something for every reader, no matter what their interests may be. Happy reading!


1.

The Divergent series

divergent - best books for teens

The best books for teens are the ones that make them think and feel deeply. The Divergent series by Veronica Roth is one of those books. It’s a story about a girl named Tris who lives in a future society where people are divided into factions based on their personality traits.

When she decides to leave her faction, she discovers a world of secrets and dangerous risks. But despite all the dangers, she persists because she knows it’s the right thing to do. Teens will identify with Tris’ struggle to figure out who she is and where she belongs. They will also appreciate the suspenseful plot and the complex characters. In short, The Divergent series is a great read for any teen who is looking for an engaging and thought-provoking story.

2.

Everything Everything

everything everything - best books for teens

If you’re looking for an engaging and thought-provoking read, look no further than Everything Everything by Nicola Yoon. The story follows the life of Maddy, a teenage girl with a rare disease that prevents her from leaving her home or having any physical contact with the outside world. Despite her sheltered existence, Maddy is a bright and curious girl, and she longs to experience all that life has to offer. When a new boy moves in next door, Maddy begins to see the world in a whole new light.

Everything Everything is a unique and moving story about love, loss, and what it means to truly live. It’s also one of the best books for teens that I’ve ever read. The characters are relatable and sympathetic, and the story will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading it. If you’re looking for an unforgettable read, be sure to pick up Everything Everything.

3.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

the perks of being a wallflower - best books for teens

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is one of the best books for teens. It’s a coming-of-age story about a high school freshman named Charlie who is trying to find his place in the world. He befriends a group of seniors who show him the ropes and help him navigate through the ups and downs of high school. The best part of the book is that it feels so real.

Charlie is a complex character who is struggling with many of the same things that many teens struggle with, including anxiety, depression, and drug use. The book deals with these issues in a raw and honest way, and it ultimately ends on a hopeful note. As someone who struggled with many of the same issues during my own teenage years, I can attest to the fact that this book really does capture the experience of being a teenager. If you’re looking for a book that will make you laugh, make you cry, and make you think, then I highly recommend The Perks of Being a Wallflower.

4.

Every Body Looking

every body looking - best books for teens

Every Body Looking is one of the best books for teens you can get your hands on. It follows the story of the main character, Ada, as she leaves home for her freshman year at a Historically Black College, and she’s not sure how she’ll cope with being away from her family. From dealing with bullies to trying to fit in and find themselves, Every Body Looking captures the highs and lows of adolescence in a relatable way.

In addition, the book also tackles important issues such as body image and self-acceptance. As someone who struggled with these issues during my own teenage years, I appreciate seeing them addressed in a thoughtful and honest manner. If you are looking for a coming-of-age story that will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between, then I highly recommend Every Body Looking by Candice Iloh.

5.

A Short History of the Girl Next Door

a short history of the girl next door - best books for teens

A Short History of the Girl Next Door is a book that tells the story of a boy named Matt and his best friend, Tabby. They have been best friends since they were young, and they share everything with each other. But when Matt starts to develop feelings for Tabby, he starts to worry that their friendship will change. And when Tabby starts dating someone new, Matt begins to feel left out.

The story follows Matt as he tries to figure out what she wants for her future, and whether or not she can still be friends with Tabby. It’s a sweet and heartwarming story that will resonate with anyone who has ever had a best friend. The characters are relatable and the plot is engaging. This makes it a great read for teens.

6.

The Fault in Our Stars

the fault in our stars - best books for teens

The Fault in Our Stars is one of the best books for teen readers. The story follows Hazel, a teenager with cancer, as she meets and falls in love with Augustus, another cancer patient. The novel is set against the backdrop of the fight against cancer and explores the many ways that illness can affect our lives.

While it is a light-hearted story, it also tackles some very serious topics, such as mortality and loss. This makes it a perfect read for teenagers, who are often grappling with these issues for the first time. The Fault in Our Stars is an unforgettable story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading it.

7.

Trapped

trapped - best books for teens

Trapped is a really gripping thriller that is perfect page-turning material for teens. It is a story about a group of friends who are stuck in their school during a severe storm. They must use their wits and teamwork to find a way out before they all freeze to death. What I love about this book is the way it captures the suspense and excitement of being in a life-or-death situation.

It is also a great example of the power of teamwork and friendship. The characters are believable and relatable, and the story is impossible to put down. If you are looking for an edge-of-your-seat thriller, I highly recommend Trapped by Michael Northrop.

8.

The Graveyard Book

the graveyard book - best books for teens

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman is one of the great books for teenagers. It’s a story about a boy named Bod who grows up in a graveyard. His parents and baby sister were killed when he was just a toddler, but he is raised by the ghosts in the graveyard. The story follows Bod as he learns about life and death, and ultimately has to confront the man who killed his family.

Gaiman is a master of suspense, and his writing is both creepy and fascinating. The Graveyard Book is a must-read for any teenager who loves a good mystery. At this point, The Graveyard Book is considered a modern classic.

9.

The Outsiders

the outsiders - best books for teens

S.E. Hinton’s The Outsiders is one of the great books for teenagers. It is the story of two gangs, the greasers and the Socs, and their rivalry. The greasers are from the wrong side of the tracks and are looked down upon by the Socs. The story is about friendship, loyalty, and violence.

It is a great read for teens because it deals with real issues that they can relate to. S.E. Hinton is a great author who understands teenage life. The Outsiders is a must-read for any teenager. The New York Times said that this book transformed young-adult fiction from a genre mostly about prom queens, football players and high school crushes to one that portrayed a darker, truer world.

10.

The Hunger Games

the hunger games - best books for teens

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a great book for teenagers. It is a story about a girl who is forced to compete in a televised fight to the death. The story is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the government controls everything. The main character, Katniss, is a strong and brave girl who does whatever it takes to survive. She is an excellent role model for teen girls.

The author, Suzanne Collins, is a great writer. She has written several other books that are also great for teenagers. If you are looking for a good book to read, I highly recommend The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. You will not be disappointed.

11.

Finding Yvonne

finding yvonne - best books for teens

Finding Yvonne by Brandy Colbert is a great book for teenagers. It’s a touching story about a girl who is searching for her place in the world. Yvonne is a great role model for teens, and she provides an inspiring example of what it means to be strong and confident.

The author does an amazing job of depicting the challenges that teenagers face, and the novel is sure to resonate with anyone who has ever felt lost or out of place. Finding Yvonne is an important book for teens, and it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone who reads it.

12.

Eleanor & Park

eleanor and park - best books for teens

Eleanor & Park is one of those great books for teenagers that just gets better and better the more you read it. The story is about two outcasts – Eleanor, a big girl with wild red hair, and Park, a boy who’s into punk rock – who find each other and fall in love. But it’s also about so much more than that. It’s about family, first love, and growing up.

It’s funny and sad and sweet and brutal, all simultaneously. And Rainbow Rowell’s writing is just gorgeous. Every word feels carefully chosen, and every sentence sings. This is a book that stays with you long after you’ve finished reading it. If you’re looking for a great read for teens (or adults), Eleanor & Park is definitely the book for you.

13.

The Hate U Give

the hate u give - best books for teens

The Hate U Give is a great book for teenagers. The story is about a 16-year-old girl named Starr Carter who witnesses the shooting of her unarmed best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. The novel follows Starr as she tries to navigate the aftermath of the shooting, dealing with grief, trauma, and public pressure.

The Hate U Give is an important book because it sheds light on the realities of police violence and racial discrimination in America. It’s a powerful and moving story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading it. Angie Thomas is a very talented author and I would highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a good read.

14.

Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging

Angus, thongs and full-frontal snogging - best books for teens

If you’re looking for a great book for teenagers, Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging is a great choice. The story follows the life of Georgia Nicolson, a teenage girl living in England. Throughout the course of the book, Georgia deals with the ups and downs of teenagehood, including first love, friendship drama, and more. One of the things that makes this book so great for teens is that it’s relatable – Georgia goes through all the same struggles that many teens do.

Additionally, the book is funny and heartfelt, making it an enjoyable read. Louise Rennison is a great author who perfectly captures the voice of a teenage girl. If you’re looking for a great book to read, Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging is a great choice.

15.

Twilight

twilight - best books for teens

Twilight is a great book for teenagers. It’s a story about a girl, Bella, who falls in love with a vampire, Edward. The book is full of suspense and romance, and it’s a great read for anyone who loves vampire stories. Stephenie Meyer is an amazing author, and she does a great job of creating believable characters and an enchanting world.

Twilight is the first book in a series of four, and each book is just as captivating as the last. If you’re looking for a great series to get lost in, then I highly recommend Twilight. You won’t be disappointed. The New York Times said that this book sparked a literary phenomenon.

16.

Holes

holes - best books for teens

Holes is a 1998 young adult novel written by Louis Sachar and published by Farrar, Straus, and Giroux. The story follows Stanley Yelnats, a teenage boy who is sent to a juvenile detention center in Texas after being wrongfully accused of stealing a pair of shoes. While at the detention center, Stanley is forced to dig holes in the hot desert sun. He soon discovers that there is more to the holes than meets the eye.

Rich with intriguing characters, humor, and suspense, Holes is one of the best books for teens. It teaches important lessons about friendship, loyalty, and determination while also keeping readers entertained from beginning to end. Louis Sachar is a master storyteller, and Holes is one of his best novels.

17.

His Dark Materials

his dark materials - best books for teens

His Dark Materials is a fantasy trilogy written by Philip Pullman. The story follows the journey of two children, Lyra and Will, as they travel through parallel universes in an attempt to save their friend Roger from a mysterious organization known as the Gobblers. Along the way, they encounter a variety of colourful characters, including an armoured bear, a witch, and a talking dog.

His Dark Materials has been praised for its complex and well-developed world, its interesting characters, and its themes of freedom and spirituality. The trilogy has won numerous awards, including the Carnegie Medal. It is considered to be one of the best books for teens and is frequently recommended as required reading in schools.

18.

Thirteen Reasons Why

thirteen reasons why - best books for teens

Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher is a bestseller that has been praised for its portrayal of teen anxiety and depression. The story follows the aftermath of Hannah Baker’s suicide, told through a series of cassette tapes she leaves behind. The book addresses heavy topics like slut shaming, rape, and bullying, but it also offers hope and a message of healing.

Asher’s writing is honest and unflinching, making Thirteen Reasons Why a must-read for any teenager struggling with mental health issues. The book has also been turned into a successful TV series on Netflix, furthering its reach to readers across the world.


As any parent or teacher knows, getting teenagers to read can be a challenge. But it’s important to encourage reading, as it helps improve literacy skills and develops a love of learning. The best books for teens are the ones that they’re interested in. So try to find out what kinds of books your teen is into, and then offer some suggestions. It’s also important to let teens find their own way with books. Encourage them to explore different genres and styles, and don’t be afraid to let them read something that you might not approve of. As long as they’re reading, that’s the main thing.

If you enjoyed this list of the best books for teens, you may also enjoy learning how to get your teenager to read more.

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page.