2017 Oct 29
Young Adult literature is a diverse genre of literature, which can encompass everything from romance and mystery to science fiction. It is arguably the most entertaining genre, since the rules here are virtually non-existent! It simply consists of some of the best works of fiction which cater to and resonate strongly with younger readers. Some of the best YA novels of all time are listed below.
1. Forever… – Judy Blume
Over the years, Judy Blume has penned a number of amazing novels for younger readers, exploring the classic themes of adolescence in a quirky, fun, and less obvious manner. Forever is a classic which will always be relatable. Although it faced some controversy in terms of sexual nature of content, such as many YA novels do, it is an original and interesting story about an obsessive love and relationship between Katherine and Michael who must then test the strength of their love with a summer apart.
2. Eleanor & Park – Rainbow Rowell
This number one New York Times bestseller has captured the hearts of many readers across the globe. This fun, playful, and heartwarming young adult book is set over the course of a school year in 1986, with two star-crossed misfit protagonists who embody the very definition of young love. Eleanor & Park is a guaranteed good read. It was the 2014 Printz Honor Book for Excellence in Young Adult Literature, winner of the 2013 Boston Globe Horn for Best Fiction and has been repeatedly dubbed one of the best book for teens.
3. Sweet Valley High Series – Francine Pascal
Originally written by Pascal and eventually penned by a number of ghostwriters over the years, this series has a whopping total of 159 books, and inspired a number of TV versions of the story as well. Identical twins Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield have nothing in common except for their looks. Delve into their lives as teenagers at Sweet Valley High with their friends, and experience a series filled with romance and mystery.
4. Little Women – Louisa May Alcott
You’ve no doubt heard about this timeless classic – now it’s time to finally pick up a copy and read this wonderful book. The story of four sisters in a Post-Civil war America is highly fascinating. The manner in which Alcott weaves the stories of her characters, along with their love lives, personal interests, hobbies, quarrels, and difficulties associated with gender roles, is captivating to say the least. Little Women is definitely a must-read.
5. Looking for Alaska – John Green
Most of John Green’s novels are highly popular amongst young readers, who relate to the real-life struggles and brutal honesty within his stories and characters in particular. Although The Fault in our Stars is arguably his most popular work, Looking for Alaska is more focused on the relatable aspects of teenager life, which makes it much more influential as a YA. Although some readers may prefer a book with a more solid storyline and less universal contemplation, younger readers will identify with the internal crises and struggles depicted in this novel.
6. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-time Indian – Sherman Alexie
From bestselling author Sherman Alexie comes the story of Junior, a budding cartoonist who grows up in the Spokane Indian Reservation. Junior eventually ends up in the town high school where the only other Indian is the school mascot. It is a delightful, funny, and touching book which is peppered with the author’s own experiences and original drawings and art. It is an original story which is still hilarious, relatable and an extremely popular YA novel, even ten years after it was first published.
7. Perks of Being a Wallflower – Stephen Chbosky
Stephen Chbosky’s best-seller gained popularity after the release of the feature film adaptation of his book. His novel revolves around the life of his protagonist, Charlie, and his experience in high school. This book is refreshing as it explores a realistic version of high school experiences. It explores some light hearted and fun subjects such as first-time experiences, the importance of having good friends and funny high school stories. However, it particularly discusses much heavier topics, including family dynamics, coping with loss, child abuse and depression. In our current day and age, this book is extremely relatable to many young teenagers. Chbosky does not gloss over these real hardships and reading this book provides the reader with new perspectives. Most notably, the author maintains a light hearted and simple tone throughout the book which makes it perfect for some bedtime reading.
8. A Wrinkle in Time – Madeleine L’Engle
A Wrinkle in Time is Madeleine L’Engle’s most popular novel, which has certainly made it to many high school reading lists. When Meg’s father, who had been experimenting with a fifth dimension of time travel, mysteriously disappears, Meg and her friends must rescue him in a heart-stopping journey through space. A classic novel, it is loved by readers around the world. The powerful role models in the book make it perfect for younger readers exploring the world of science fiction. Although it may appear oversimplified to adult readers, it is perfect for its target audience.
9. The Princess Diaries – Meg Cabot
Let’s be honest – almost everything written by Meg Cabot should make this list! Her style of writing and content has gained her thousands of beloved fans. However, The Princess Diaries series in particular truly captures the attention of young readers around the world. The fascinating story of young Mia Thermopolis and her journey from an ordinary awkward schoolgirl to the princess of Genovia is a classic. The character herself is highly relatable and Cabot’s choice of diary as the layout for the book is exciting. Ultimately, everything about the series is highly enjoyable.
10. My Sister’s Keeper – Jodi Picoult
Although many of Picoult’s books are more suited for older readers, they deal with many issues which the younger generation must eventually learn of and gain awareness about. My Sister’s Keeper is the perfect gateway book for a young reader looking to start reading some serious fiction. This heartbreaking story is both insightful, entertaining, and shines a light on many topics which are considered sensitive. For a young reader, it can certainly be an enlightening journey.
