Searching for the best book to read for teenagers and young adults? Find them here! I’m sure growing up as a teenager is an adventure, where you will come across a lot of obstacles, temporary people, fake friends, and many struggles. It is you who has to overcome all these in the teenage period.
But how? Well, you can find the answers in the books that I have listed in this article. These books are not just just stories, they are your friends that teach you, and open doors to new places in your imagination. So, choose the right book, and start exploring new things to become successful and find joy in your lives.
Best Book To Read For Teenagers
If you ever think that you have a weak spirit as a teenager, you are wrong! It is way stronger than you think. All you have to do is learn how to unveil the strength of your spirit by overcoming the struggles with confidence. These are some of the touching words that Maya Angelou has left in her book.
You would end up having tears in your eyes when you come to know the life story of the author and the injustice that happened to her. The book tells how the author brought herself out after facing a series of tragedies in her life. As it is a true story, is indeed the best book to read for teenagers!
- Author: Maya Angelou
- Genre: Autobiography
- Why Should One Read: It’s a powerful, and personal recount of overcoming adversity and racism.
- Moral: The resilience of the human spirit in the face of injustice is unimaginable. Make up your spirit for the upcoming struggles.
2. The War of Art
In this book, you will come across the term “resistance” which is the primary force that pushes us against achieving our dreams. The author says, that not just you, but every other person in this world is facing resistance in everything that they do. He also suggests, that to overcome this resistance, you need to work hard as much as possible.
The book will tell you how to excel in your life with patience, preparation, and the will to do everything that you aspire to do. I would say that this is the best book to read for teenagers, working professionals, and entrepreneurs to become successful.
- Author: Steven Pressfield
- Genre: Self-help, Motivational
- Why Should One Read: It inspires overcoming internal obstacles to unleash creativity.
- Moral: Discipline and commitment are key to conquering creative blocks.
3. Do Hard Things
In this book, the author suggests building toughness to be successful in whatever you do in your life. And by toughness, he means being true, and honest to oneself, accepting the hardships during the journey of success. He also talks about being resilient by coping with the discomfort and responding to all those with a smile.
I’m sure you will be able to find meaning in discomfort after you read this book and the ability to accept it. Also, you will learn about the meanings of all your emotions and be able to get control over it. It is one of the best books teenagers should read at least once in their lifetime.
- Author: Steve Magness
- Genre: Inspirational, Self-help
- Why Should One Read: Encourages young people to step out of their comfort zones and build confidence.
- Moral: Challenging oneself and cultivating resilience leads to growth and significant achievements.
4. Boundaries
When you become a teenager, it is sure that you will get into relationships. The author talks about setting boundaries in relationships and personal life. The author says that it is kind to others and yourself to set boundaries. You are the most important person in your life and you must take care of yourself first before others.
The author suggests that life gets better when you set boundaries for relationships even if it is hard to do so. Boundaries are not just for the personal, but also the world life. This is the best book to read for teenagers, and for those who are finding relationships to be hard.
- Author: Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend
- Genre: Self-help, Christian Living
- Why Should One Read: It offers guidance on setting healthy personal boundaries.
- Moral: Boundaries are necessary for a balanced and fulfilling life.
5. How to Win Friends and Influence People
As a teenager, it would be difficult for you to make friends, especially if you are an introvert. When making friends is tough, then influencing people would be far more difficult. And here is the best book to read for teenagers, and also others who are facing the difficulty of winning friends.
The author gives some of the best ideas for teenagers to attract and influence people. These include being honest, not criticizing others, smiling often, being a good listener, and more like these. So, it is one of the best books teenagers should read in order to win people!
- Author: Dale Carnegie
- Genre: Self-help, Business
- Why Should One Read: Timeless advice on building relationships and influencing others.
- Moral: Empathy and understanding are key to personal and professional success.
6. Essentialism
What is the one thing that you give the most importance to? Do you think it is the right one that has to be given importance to? Well, here is Greg McKeown to put a light on it. The author talks about two types of people, the Essentialists, and the Non-Essentialists.
You will get clarity to differentiate between things that are important and those that are not. This takes you to the first step of essentialism. Moreover, you will learn the three cores of essentialism that can make your life simple, yet beautiful which makes it the best book to read for teenagers, and people who have non-essentialist thoughts.
- Author: Greg McKeown
- Genre: Business, Self-help
- Why Should One Read: Teaches prioritization and the disciplined pursuit of less.
- Moral: Focus on what truly matters for greater fulfillment.
7. The Teen’s Guide to World Domination
If you would like to take advice on life, The Teen’s Guide to World Domination is the book that I would suggest. The author is also a motivational speaker who makes teenagers realize about their lives. It is the best book to read for teenagers, who want to overcome the obstacles in their lives.
It is one of the best books teenagers should read as the author comes with unique terms that mean different people. For example, GHOSTS mean all the painful memories, that you must forget to get rid of, NINJAS, are the people who backstab you. You must not give chances to them to betray you. Similarly, there are several other terms that you will discover while reading the book.
- Author: Josh Shipp
- Genre: Self-help, Youth
- Why Should One Read: Provides practical advice for teens to navigate life challenges.
- Moral: Self-empowerment and taking control of one’s life.
8. The 7-Habits of Highly Effective People
Have you ever wondered about your most effective and productive habit?! Know about the 7 such habits that an effective person has to excel in life in this book. Some of the essential habits that you must have to be effective are being proactive, knowing what you want to be and what you want to do, listing out the essential things in life, etc.
You will inculcate the 7 habits mentioned in this book gradually as you finish reading it. Since it can change your habits, it is the best book to read for teenagers.
- Author: Stephen R. Covey
- Genre: Self-help, Business
- Why Should One Read: A framework for personal and professional effectiveness.
- Moral: Principles and habits shape a successful and meaningful life.
9. Diary of a Young Girl
I guess most of you must have read this book in your school. Right? Even I did. But, we would have just read to answer the questions asked in the exam. I suggest you read this book soulfully to know the inspiring story of this young girl Anne Frank and her thoughts.
The author explains her experience in World War II, hiding from the Nazis in a secret annexe. When you read this book, you will come to know about willpower and how important finding joy in difficult times is.
- Author: Anne Frank
- Genre: Autobiography, History
- Why Should One Read: A poignant perspective of life during the Holocaust.
- Moral: The enduring strength and hope of a young girl in undesirable situations helped her live life. We must inculcate the habit of being strong to face these situations.
10. The Total Money Makeover
Would you like to know how to be financially secure? I guess you will find how in this book. In case your parents are in debt, you can help them get rid of it with these effective plans that the author gives. Moreover, you will learn to make a budget that will eventually reduce the financial burden. You will also come to know the discipline of not spending money on things that are not essential to your life.
He suggests creating an emergency fund that can be useful whenever you face situations that you can’t handle with the existing money. I recommend this because it is the best book to read for teenagers, who wish to save money effectively.
- Author: Dave Ramsey
- Genre: Personal Finance
- Why Should One Read: Offers a solid plan for achieving financial fitness.
- Moral: Financial peace is possible through disciplined money management.
Best Book To Read For Young Adults | Books Teenagers Should Read
The writing produced in young adult (YA) books today is incredibly beautiful, resonant, and relevant. Though young adult books/novels are primarily meant for young people, they are also excellent reads for more mature readers. YA books can be enjoyed by any age group. It includes some of the best/greatest YA novels of all time, including some of the best-known older ones and some recent gems that have gone unnoticed.
1. I’ll Give You the Sun
In this beautifully written Stonewall Honor novel, twins Noah and Jude are torn apart by the death of their mother, Noah’s struggle with his sexuality, and a traumatic event for Jude.
The novel employs a dual narrative structure, alternating between Noah and Jude’s perspectives. It delves into themes of art and creativity, with Noah being a gifted artist and Jude being a sculptor, reflecting their emotional and psychological journeys.
2. The House on Mango Street
It follows Esperanza Cordero in a series of vignettes as she enters adolescence in her Chicago neighborhood. Esparanza is at once proud of her background and struggles with others’ perceptions.
Sandra Cisneros’ work is noted for its poetic style and innovative narrative form. The book is often used in educational settings to discuss themes of identity and cultural heritage. Cisneros herself drew from her own experiences growing up in Chicago.
3. The Hate U Give
The first novel by Angelie Thomas was inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement. The book chronicles what happens after Starr witnesses Khalil being shot unjustly by the police. As a 16-year-old, she must decide whether to come forward and expose the shooting for what it was.
Angie Thomas originally wrote this novel as a response to police violence and systemic racism, influenced by the Black Lives Matter movement. The book’s title is inspired by Tupac Shakur’s song “Thug Life” and serves as a reflection on the effects of hate.
4. Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret
In spite of her desire to fit in with other middle schoolers, Margaret’s lack of religious identity becomes a barrier to her integration. In 2023, the bestselling book will be adapted into a movie. As Margaret and her friends navigate puberty, Margaret’s private conversations with God become her own touchpoint.
Judy Blume’s novel is celebrated for its candid approach to adolescent issues, including menstruation and religious identity. The book’s frankness was groundbreaking at the time of publication and continues to be a touchstone in discussions of coming-of-age literature.
5. Boy’s Don’t Cry
As a book exploring single parenthood, I think a lot of people can relate to or sympathise with the main character. It is a good read for young adults, but it really resonates as you get older.
The novel by Malorie Blackman tackles themes of gender and family dynamics through a poignant narrative. It’s known for its emotionally charged storytelling and has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of single parenthood and societal expectations.
6. Noughts and Crosses
There’s nothing better than a forbidden love story, and this one won’t disappoint. When you read it as an adult, you’ll probably appreciate it more.
This novel by Malorie Blackman is set in a dystopian world where racial roles are reversed, with Crosses (black people) being in power and Noughts (white people) being oppressed. It addresses themes of racism and social injustice in a thought-provoking manner.
7. A Court of Thorns and Roses
It is a young adult high fantasy series by Sarah J. Maas called “A Court of Thorns and Roses”. After killing a faerie wolf, Feyre Archeron is kidnapped and taken to the faerie lands of Prythian. Her captor is Tamlin, a High Fae and one of the seven High Lords of Prythian. Their love story unfolds as Feyre learns about the fae world and discovers the curse that plagues Tamlin and his people.
Sarah J. Maas’ series combines elements of classic fairy tales with a richly developed fantasy world. The series is noted for its intricate world-building and mature themes, evolving from a Beauty and the Beast retelling into a complex epic.
8. Everything, Everything
A teenage girl’s severe allergies keep her indoors and away from everyone except her mother and nurse, until Olly moves in next door, and the two fall in love improbably.
Nicola Yoon’s debut novel is told through a mix of prose, illustrations, and text messages. Its multimedia format enhances the story’s emotional impact and reflects the protagonist’s unique perspective, emphasizing themes of isolation and connection.
9. Firekeeper’s Daughter
An Ojibwe teenager who dreams of finding her place in college after years of feeling out of place, Firekeeper’s Daughter won the Printz Medal, Morris Award, and American Indian Youth Literature Award. When she witnesses a murder, she gets involved in an FBI investigation, which derails her plans.
Angeline Boulley’s debut novel incorporates elements of Ojibwe culture and language. Boulley, an enrolled member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, drew from her own experiences and advocacy work in creating this impactful story.
10. One of Us Is Lying
YA mystery novels were sparked by Karen M. McManus’ well-told tale of four disparate teens who end up in study hall with a deceased student–and it begins to look like a murder. Two sequels followed the book, which stayed a bestseller for years.
Karen M. McManus’s debut novel is often compared to classic mystery novels due to its suspenseful plot and character-driven narrative. It was praised for its twisty plot and has been adapted into a television series, expanding its reach and impact.
Conclusion
The books listed in this article not only offer engaging stories, but also provide valuable lessons, inspire resilience, and encourage personal development. Each book serves as a companion in understanding oneself and the world, equipping you with insights and strategies to face obstacles with confidence.
Whether you seek emotional support, practical advice, or a deep dive into societal issues, these titles are essential reading for teenagers striving to make sense of their experiences and shape their futures. Embrace these stories and let them guide you on your path to becoming the best version of yourself.
