While some may not typically gravitate towards young adult literature, I firmly believe that there are numerous gems within the genre that can transcend age boundaries and appeal to readers of all tastes. As someone who enjoys both YA and adult fiction, I’ve developed an appreciation for the unique qualities that set each apart. However, I’m convinced that there’s a wealth of YA literature that can captivate anyone, regardless of their typical reading preferences.
In this list, you’ll find a mix of books that embody the essence of YA and those that defy traditional expectations. I’ve aimed to curate recommendations across various genres to cater to a diverse audience. What’s more, I’ve only included books that genuinely impressed me as an adult reader, which means there are many excellent titles missing from this list due to my own reading limitations.
What follows is a selection of 20 YA books that left me feeling delighted, disturbed, and entranced. Many of these titles have also been recognized on ‘best YA of all time’ lists, making them an excellent starting point for skeptics looking to explore the world of YA.
Fantasy-ish YA Books for People Who Don’t Like YA
With a passion for fantasy that spans multiple genres, I have a soft spot for imaginative retellings of classic fairytales and thought-provoking dystopian novels infused with elements of science fiction. If you share my enthusiasm for these types of stories, I encourage you to explore the selection of books featured here.
Girl, Serpent, Thorn by Melissa Bashardoust
The instant I stumbled upon this feminist fairytale, I was hooked. A reclusive princess, confined to a castle with little interaction or recognition, encounters a brooding soldier hiding secrets of his own. The plot thickens with the presence of a mysterious demon in the dungeon holding crucial information the princess is desperate to obtain. To make matters more intriguing, this princess harbors a deadly secret: she’s toxic to the touch.
The narrative weaves together dark and twisty elements with a delightful queer undertone, leaving me convinced that readers will devour every word.
Violet Made of Thorns by Gina Chen
Violet, a morally ambiguous witch with a penchant for weaving not-always-accurate prophecies, finds herself at a crossroads in this dark fairytale inspired by the Asian diaspora. As the king’s trusted advisor and peddler of dubious predictions, Violet is faced with an unenviable choice: to fabricate a love story between the prince – who has no qualms about firing her – or risk everything to uphold her integrity.
Dread Nation by Justina Ireland
Imagine a scenario where the dead rise from their graves after the Civil War, forcing Americans to band together against a common threat. What if this apocalypse also exposed the deep-seated social issues that plagued the country at the time? A historic zombie outbreak could have served as a catalyst for unity and change. In this fictional account, the post-Civil War society is built upon the labor and sacrifice of Black and indigenous people, who are coerced into protecting white individuals.
Amidst this backdrop, our protagonist stands out as a smart-mouthed, fearless, and unapologetically Black, bisexual heroine. Her story, along with its sequel, holds a special place in my heart as one of my all-time favorite tales.
Cinderella is Dead by Kalynn Bayron
I’m utterly enamored with reimagined fairytales, but my affection for queer retellings featuring people of color knows no bounds. The magic lies in the way these stories subvert expectations and defy conventions, offering a fresh perspective that’s hard to put down. Case in point: ‘Cinderella is Dead’ – a captivating tale that weaves together lovable characters, unexpected plot twists, and an irresistible narrative that will keep you hooked until the very last page.
Cinder by Marissa Meyer
In the realm of futuristic fantasy, The Lunar Chronicles series weaves a captivating narrative that defies genre conventions. Set in a world where robots roam free and space travel is the norm, this tale transports readers to an era of technological advancements and magical intrigue. Amidst the high-tech landscape, author Marissa Meyer masterfully infuses her stories with complex female protagonists, ensuring a loyal fan base among fans of fantasy and romance alike.
For instance, her reimagining of Lewis Carroll’s classic, Heartless, showcases Meyer’s ability to craft emotionally charged and thought-provoking tales that resonate with readers.
Romance-y YA Books for People Who Don’t Like YA
While exploring the realm of literature, a common thread that runs through certain books is the presence of captivating love stories. These tales can be classified as straightforward romances or, at times, romantic in nature. The endearing quality of these stories lies in their ability to evoke emotions and create a deep connection with readers. Whether you are an avid fan of romance or simply appreciate a good love story, this collection is sure to delight.
They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera
As I delved into Adam Silvera’s latest masterpiece, I found myself in the midst of a whirlwind of emotions – tears streaming down my face as I turned the pages. It’s not the first time I’ve had an emotional breakdown on an airplane while reading a book, but there was something about Mateo and Rufus’ story that resonated deeply. The concept of Deathcast, a mysterious system that notifies people at midnight on their designated day of passing, is undeniably intriguing.
The way Mateo and Rufus come together on the night they’re both set to meet their maker is nothing short of poignant. As I read about their journey to make the most of their shared mortality, I couldn’t help but be swept up in the narrative – my emotions ebbing and flowing with every passing page.
Anne of Greenville by Mariko Tamaki
Immersed in a world reminiscent of their childhood memories, readers familiar with the beloved classic, Anne of Green Gables, are in for a delightful surprise. This reimagined tale masterfully weaves together the same lighthearted, humorous mishaps and misadventures that made the original so endearing. Yet, this contemporary adaptation cleverly brings Anne into the modern era, redefining the character as a queer, Japanese American, creative romantic who finds herself in a small town.
It is here she forms an unbreakable bond with her best friend Berry and kindles a romance with Gilly. The result is a heartwarming, nostalgic treat that will transport readers to a simpler time, yet resonate deeply with contemporary themes.
Me (Moth) by Amber McBride
What sets this young adult novel apart is its ability to resonate with readers who may not typically enjoy the genre. The story’s focus on relatable themes like grief and belonging allows it to transcend age boundaries. The narrative is presented in stunning verse, making every word count. And just when you think you’ve got everything figured out, a heart-wrenching twist will leave you reeling.
If you’re planning a flight, beware: this book’s emotional punch may be better savored in the comfort of your own home.
The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon
Nicola Yoon’s remarkable talent is truly awe-inspiring. Her latest work shares a similar emotional resonance with her previous novel, They Both Die at the End. In this poignant love story, the narrative unfolds over the course of a single day, one that fate has already predetermined to end in tragedy. Despite the bleak outlook, readers are irresistibly drawn to the protagonists’ plight and find themselves rooting for them against all odds.
Date Me, Bryson Keller by Kevin van Whye
I’m still reeling from the impact of this extraordinary novel. Without being able to pinpoint exactly what it was about the story that captivated me so thoroughly, I found myself helplessly enthralled after finishing it. As I delved into the world of this achingly sweet coming-of-age tale, I discovered a queer brown protagonist who embarks on an unexpected journey by secretly dating the most popular guy in school for a week at the behest of a dare.
The least believable aspect of this poignant narrative is that any high school student could possess the level of thoughtfulness, kindness, and swoon-worthy charm exhibited by Bryson Keller.
Painfully Realistic YA Books for People Who Don’t Like YA
Are you looking for stories that confront the complexities of the human condition and shed light on pressing issues that affect our daily lives? If so, be prepared to dive into a world of moral ambiguity and emotional depth. The following book recommendations are not for the faint of heart, but rather for those who crave a more authentic and thought-provoking reading experience.
Allegedly by Tiffany D. Jackson
Tiffany D. Jackson’s writing has an uncanny ability to craft a sense of unease, making her young adult novels eerily relatable and hauntingly memorable. The impact of her stories is so profound that it can leave readers feeling utterly transformed – as I experienced firsthand when devouring one of her books. In fact, after finishing a particular title, I was compelled to confess to my friend who initially recommended it that she had irreparably altered the trajectory of my life.
And yet, I found myself drawn to Jackson’s work once more, driven by an insatiable curiosity to explore the complexities and depth she brings to her stories.
The 57 Bus by Dashka Slater
All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely
When deciding which book to include in my discussion, I was torn between this title and Angie Thomas’s The Hate U Give, both of which tackle similar themes of police brutality with remarkable sensitivity. After careful consideration, I opted for this one as it may be less well-known, but equally impactful.
In this book, the authors take on the challenge of exploring a case of police brutality from multiple perspectives, crafting a nuanced and honest portrayal that mirrors the thoughtful approach found in The 57 Bus.
Symptoms of Being Human by Jeff Garvin
The publication left a lasting impact on me. The narrative revolves around Riley, a nonbinary teenager, as they navigate the challenges of being outed and coming to terms with their own identity. What lingers is a sense of uncertainty, as I’m still grappling with the fate of Riley – will they find peace? The story’s conclusion has left me yearning for Riley’s well-being, leaving an indelible mark on my thoughts.
Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein
The novel’s blend of historical fiction and espionage had me thoroughly engaged, despite my initial reservations about the genre. Verity’s predicament – taken into custody after her British spy plane crashes in Nazi-occupied France – sets the stage for a thrilling adventure that unfolds with surprising twists, turns, and character revelations. I found myself utterly captivated by the narrative, unable to tear myself away from the unfolding drama.
Delightfully Realistic YA Books for People Who Don’t Like YA
Feeling down and looking for a change of pace from heavier themes? Look no further! Here are some uplifting and engaging options to get lost in.
With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo
Elizabeth Acevedo is an author whose work it’s hard not to include on such a list. I struggled with the urge to feature multiple titles from her collection, but ultimately chose my personal favorite. There’s something about underdog protagonists that resonate deeply with me – perhaps it’s their unwavering determination to succeed despite life’s challenges.
Emoni’s story is a prime example of this; despite facing difficulties such as poverty, teenage pregnancy, an uninvolved baby daddy, and the absence of her father, she perseveres in pursuit of her aspirations, weaving together a narrative that explores themes of family, self-acceptance, and overcoming adversity.
You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson
One of my all-time favorite books tells the captivating tale of a Black queer girl fighting for her academic dreams. The protagonist’s quest for prom queen and the scholarship that comes with it serves as the backdrop to explore themes of identity, community, and social pressures. What sets this book apart is its unique blend of nostalgia and storytelling, making it an absolute page-turner for readers of all ages.
Felix Ever After by Kacen Callender
In a narrative that balances sorrow with optimism, the story of Felix, a trans boy, unfolds. Amidst the turmoil, Felix is subjected to relentless bullying and humiliation at the hands of an unknown assailant. Yet, this tale takes an uplifting turn as Felix discovers his voice, solidifies his place within his family and community, and even finds love. As I celebrate the triumphs that follow, I am reminded that a happy ending can be truly beautiful.
Aces Wild: A Heist by Amanda Dewitt
While I may be stretching the truth with my use of ‘realistic,’ Vegas is a city that defies easy explanation. In this YA novel, which eschews traditional tropes to appeal to readers who might not typically pick up books in this genre, Jack finds himself at the center of a high-stakes game. His mother, a casino mogul, has raised him on the underbelly of Las Vegas’s gambling scene, where the stakes are always high and the players are often ruthless.
When Jack’s mom gets arrested after being framed by her rival – and former lover – it’s up to Jack and his friends to take matters into their own hands. Their mission? Infiltrate a high-stakes gambling club and clear Jack’s mom’s name, all while navigating the treacherous world of organized crime and betrayal that lies beneath the glitz and glamour of Sin City.
One of Us is Lying by Karen M. McManus
While it may not be entirely realistic, I’d like to highlight a fascinating mystery novel that’s often compared to the hit TV show Pretty Little Liars and The Breakfast Club. This thrilling story follows a group of students who become prime murder suspects after one of their own dies during detention. As lies and secrets unfold, this tale is nothing short of ridiculously fun. In fact, the sequel One of Us is Next is just as captivating.
If you’re having trouble finding your next great YA read on this list, be sure to check out our additional recommendations: The 25 Best YA Books of All Time, The Top Ten YA Books of the Year According to Teenagers, and The Most Popular YA Books on TikTok.