Reading is not just a pastime, but also a stepping stone to self-discovery and understanding the world around us. Here are 10 must-read novels for teens that are engaging reads for young adults.
1. “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas
This powerful novel follows the story of Starr, a teenage girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood friend by a police officer. It tackles important themes of race, identity, and activism.
2. “The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger
A classic coming-of-age novel, “The Catcher in the Rye” follows the rebellious and disenchanted teenager Holden Caulfield as he navigates through adolescence and struggles to find meaning in the adult world.
3. “The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green
This heart-wrenching novel tells the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, two teenagers who fall in love while battling cancer. It is a poignant and beautifully written tale of love and loss.
4. “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee
Set in the American South during the 1930s, “To Kill a Mockingbird” follows the story of Scout Finch as she learns about racism and prejudice while her father defends a black man wrongly accused of raping a white woman.
5. “Thirteen Reasons Why” by Jay Asher
This gripping novel follows the story of Hannah Baker, a teenage girl who commits suicide and leaves behind a series of cassette tapes explaining the reasons why she made that decision. It is a powerful exploration of bullying and its consequences.
6. “Looking for Alaska” by John Green
In this novel, Miles “Pudge” Halter enrolls at Culver Creek Preparatory School and meets the enigmatic and unpredictable Alaska Young. The novel explores themes of friendship, love, and grief.
7. “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton
Set in the 1960s, “The Outsiders” follows the rivalry between two groups of teenagers from different socio-economic backgrounds. It is a timeless exploration of identity, loyalty, and class division.
8. “Speak” by Laurie Halse Anderson
This novel follows the story of Melinda, a high school freshman who becomes an outcast after calling the police to a party. She struggles to find her voice and speak out about the traumatic event that led to her silence.
9. “Eleanor & Park” by Rainbow Rowell
Set in the 1980s, this novel follows the love story between two misfit teenagers, Eleanor and Park. It is a heartwarming and authentic portrayal of first love and the challenges of fitting in.
10. “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky
This coming-of-age story follows the introspective and socially awkward Charlie as he navigates through his freshman year of high school. The novel tackles themes of friendship, mental health, and self-discovery.