Award-winning YA books are an excellent gateway into the world of young adult literature, regardless of whether you’re a newcomer to the genre or a seasoned reader looking to expand your horizons. One of the most effective ways to discover new titles is by exploring the various awards and recognition that YA books receive.
From peer-nominated honors to organization-sanctioned accolades, there’s a wealth of award-winning YA books across multiple genres, including fiction, nonfiction, comics, and more. With something for every type of reader, this diverse range of titles offers a treasure trove of literary discoveries waiting to be unearthed.
The list below features a curated selection of award-winning YA books that have received recognition in various categories, including the Printz award, Morris award, Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults award, National Book Award in Young People’s Literature, Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, Edgar Award, and Andre Norton Award for Outstanding Young Adult Science Fiction or Fantasy.
While this is not an exhaustive list of all award-winning YA books, it provides a starting point for readers to explore these titles further. By clicking on the links provided alongside each title, you’ll gain access to a broader range of award-winning YA books that have won or been shortlisted for these prestigious honors. Please note that while I’ve read many of these titles myself, my familiarity with them is not exhaustive – there may be more gems waiting to be discovered!
Award-Winning YA Books
The 57 Bus: A True Story of Two Teenagers and the Crime That Changed Their Lives by Dashka Slater (Stonewall Award, 2017)
In Oakland, California, two teenagers from different worlds crossed paths on a single bus ride. Sasha, a white teenager, attended a small private school in the middle-class foothills, while Richard, a black teenager, went to a large public school in the crime-plagued flatlands. Their daily commutes overlapped for just eight minutes, but their lives took a dramatic turn when Richard’s reckless act left Sasha severely burned and himself facing life imprisonment.
This true story is told by Dashka Slater in The 57 Bus, which garnered international attention and thrust both teenagers into the spotlight.
American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang (Printz Award, 2007)
In this captivating tale, American Born Chinese masterfully weaves together the narratives of three seemingly disparate characters: Jin Wang, a young boy adjusting to a new neighborhood and school where he’s the only Chinese-American student; the enigmatic Monkey King, a legendary figure from ancient Chinese folklore; and Chin-Kee, a caricature of negative stereotypes that wreak havoc on his cousin Danny’s life through his annual visits.
As their stories intersect with unexpected twists and turns, this modern fable takes readers on an thrilling ride, culminating in a stunning climax that will leave them breathless.
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz (Belpré Award, 2013; Stonewall Award, 2013; Lambda Literary Award, 2013, among others)
In a peculiar confluence of circumstances, two teenagers from different walks of life find an unlikely bond at their local swimming pool. Aristotle, a brooding young man struggling with the weight of his brother’s imprisonment, and Dante, a self-proclaimed know-it-all with a unique perspective on the world, appear to be polar opposites. Yet, as they begin to spend more time together, they uncover a shared kinship that transcends their surface-level differences.
This special friendship – one that can alter the course of their lives and endure for years to come – serves as the catalyst for Ari and Dante’s journeys of self-discovery, as they grapple with fundamental questions about their own identities and the kind of individuals they aspire to become.
The Art of Secrets by James Klise (Edgar Award, 2015)
Saba Khan’s life was forever changed when her apartment mysteriously caught fire, potentially a hate crime. The community rallied around her, but little did she know that a new twist was just around the corner. A peculiar piece of art donated to the school’s fundraising efforts for the Khans’ recovery fund turned out to be an unknown masterpiece by a renowned artist, worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
This revelation sparked a heated debate among students and teachers, with fingers being pointed and shocking allegations being made. Through a collection of monologues, journal entries, interviews, articles, and official documents, the cast of characters shares their unique perspectives on the events that unfolded.
The Art of Starving by Sam J. Miller (Norton Award, 2017)
Matt’s stomach churned with a relentless, gnawing emptiness. The ache had become his constant companion, driving him to resist the tantalizing aromas wafting from his mother’s kitchen. His hunger was more than just physical – it had become an integral part of his focus, allowing him to stay razor-sharp as he delved deeper into uncovering the truth about Tariq and his band of high school bullies’ involvement in driving away his sister Maya.
As Matt starved himself, he began to notice a peculiar phenomenon. The less he ate, the more his senses seemed to expand. He could perceive things that should have been invisible to him – whispers in the wind, hidden intentions, and even the faintest echoes of memories long buried. In this state, what was lunch compared to the mysteries of the universe? A mere trifle. And yet, Matt found himself drawn into a world where he needed to feed his newfound abilities.
He decided to infiltrate Tariq’s life, using his powers to uncover the truth about Maya’s disappearance. But as he delved deeper, he began to realize that there were many kinds of hunger – some within his control, others not so much.
Anya’s Ghost by Vera Brosgol (Eisner Award, 2012)
Anya’s life was a mess, but little did she know that the most unexpected encounter would turn it around. While exploring an old well, Anya stumbled upon an unusual companion – a centuries-old ghost who claimed to be her new best friend forever. The notion of befriending a spirit from beyond the grave was far from anything she had envisioned finding at the bottom of that ancient well.
Her own struggles were already overwhelming; feeling embarrassed by her family, self-conscious about her appearance and resigned to being an outcast at school. Yet, despite initial reservations, Anya found solace in this unlikely friendship. But as things unfolded, she began to question whether this ‘Forever’ friend was truly what she needed or if it would only lead to more chaos.
Bomb: The Race to Build – and Steal – the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon by Steve Sheinkin (Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults, 2013; Siebert Award, 2013)
In December 1938, a German laboratory’s serendipitous discovery sent shockwaves around the globe: when radioactive material was placed nearby, Uranium atoms split in two. This groundbreaking finding ignited a scientific frenzy that spanned three continents, drawing in top-secret players from Great Britain and the United States to Soviet spies and Norwegian commandos.
Meanwhile, at Los Alamos, a secretive group of brilliant scientists was tucked away in a remote desert location, crafting the world’s most powerful weapon. This is the tale of plotting, risk-taking, deceit, and genius that brought about the atomic bomb, forever changing the course of history.
Bone Gap by Laura Ruby (Printz Award, 2016)
Bone Gap, a small town with an abundance of gaps, was no stranger to the unknown. When the beautiful Roza went missing, it wasn’t an unusual occurrence for its residents. However, Finn knew the truth behind her disappearance. He recalled the moment she vanished into thin air, taken by a man whose face remained shrouded in mystery.
As we delve into the lives of Finn, Roza, and the townspeople, acclaimed author Laura Ruby masterfully crafts a narrative that illustrates how our external appearance can never fully capture the essence of who we truly are.
Challenger Deep by Neal Shusterman (National Book Award in Young People’s Literature, 2015)
Neal Shusterman’s Challenger Deep is a thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of mental illness, leaving a lasting impact long after the final page has been turned. The story follows Caden Bosch, a brilliant high school student, as he navigates his struggles and finds solace in his art. While on a ship en route to the deepest point on Earth, Challenger Deep, Caden’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic, causing concern among his peers.
As the protagonist’s inner turmoil simmers just beneath the surface, Shusterman masterfully weaves together themes of identity, loyalty, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy.
Enchanted Air: Two Cultures, Two Wings: A Memoir by Margarita Engle (Belpré Award, 2016)
Margarita’s dual identity is rooted in two distinct worlds. Her heart beats with the rhythm of Cuba, a vibrant island where life bursts forth like a verdant oasis. Yet, most days find her isolated in Los Angeles, yearning for the tranquility of her tropical home and the summer escapes to the enchanting island. In this desolate landscape, words and images become her loyal confidants, offering solace amidst the chaos of schoolyard interactions.
As a revolution erupts in Cuba, Margarita’s anxiety escalates as she worries about her loved ones on the distant shore. The Bay of Pigs Invasion sparks a chasm of hostility between the two nations, shattering Margarita’s sense of unity and forcing her to confront the stark reality: how can the countries that hold her heart in such high esteem harbor such animosity? Will she ever be able to visit the island that embodies her essence?
Enclave by Ann Aguirre (RITA Award, 2012)
In a post-apocalyptic world where New York City lies in ruin, humanity has adapted to life underground. The average lifespan is mere years, with most individuals perishing before reaching their mid-twenties. As Deuce approaches her 15th birthday, she’s slated to assume the role of a Huntress, partnering with Fade, a seasoned Hunter who once thrived above ground as a child.
When they uncover evidence of the neighboring enclave’s devastating loss to the tunnel-dwelling Freaks, which appear to be evolving into a formidable force, the elder council remains obstinate, dismissing their warnings.
Ultimately, Deuce and Fade are cast out from their community, leaving the girl who grew up in darkness with no choice but to navigate the treacherous surface world in search of survival, relying on Fade’s fragmented memories of life above ground to guide her through the ruins of a city that has been reduced to mere gangs.
The Freak Observer by Blythe Woolston (Morris Award, 2011)
For eight years, Loa Sollilja’s life revolved around her baby sister Asta, who was stuck in a permanent infant state due to a genetic disorder. As the sole caregiver, Loa’s days unfolded with predictable regularity, much like the mechanical solar system models that teach us about celestial mechanics. But with Asta’s passing, Loa’s meticulously constructed world has shattered, leaving her 16-year-old self reeling in its aftermath.
The absence of her sister has triggered a maelstrom of vivid nightmares and disturbing flashbacks, classic symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. However, there are no one-size-fits-all solutions to ease Loa’s troubled mind. Instead, she must embark on a journey of self-discovery to wrest control from the grasp of death and forge her own path forward.
The Freedom Maze by Delia Sherman (Norton Award, 2011)
Thirteen-year-old Sophie reluctantly spends her summer of 1960 at her grandmother’s old house in the bayou, where she finds herself feeling bored and lonely. In an attempt to shake off the monotony, Sophie can’t help but explore the labyrinthine corridors of the house or make impulsive wishes for a fantastical adventure with herself as the protagonist.
Instead, she finds herself transported back in time to 1860, where her family’s Louisiana sugar plantation is steeped in the tumultuous world of racial tensions and social hierarchy. As Sophie navigates this unfamiliar era, she discovers that President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation remains two years away, while passage of the Thirteenth Amendment lies a staggering four years into the future.
And to make matters more surreal, Sophie finds herself mistaken by her own ancestors for a slave, thrust into an uncertain and treacherous world where her very identity is called into question.
Girl in the Blue Coat by Monica Hesse (Edgar Award, 2017)
In the midst of World War II, Amsterdam was a city torn apart by occupation and secrecy. Hanneke, a young woman, navigated this treacherous landscape with a mix of pragmatism and rebellion. By day, she procured and delivered black market goods to those willing to pay the price, hiding her true intentions from her concerned parents. By night, she mourned the loss of her boyfriend, killed on the Dutch front lines when the Germans invaded.
Her illegal work was a small act of defiance in a city where every move was monitored. A routine delivery turned her life upside down when a desperate client, Mrs. Janssen, asked for Hanneke’s help. The older woman’s frantic plea to find a missing Jewish teenager who had vanished from a secret room caught Hanneke off guard. Initially, she wanted nothing to do with the danger that came with searching for this person, but something about Mrs. Janssen’s desperation drew her in.
As Hanneke delved deeper into the mystery, she found herself entwined in a web of secrets and revelations that led her to the heart of the resistance, opened her eyes to the horrors of the Nazi war machine, and compelled her to take desperate action.
Godless by Pete Hautman (National Book Award in Young People’s Literature, 2004)
In a bold move against his parents’ traditional faith, agnostic-turned-atheist Jason Bock creates a new deity – the town’s water tower. He gathers an unlikely group of followers: Shin, a snail-farming friend with a passion for scripture; Magda Price, a sweet and innocent soul; and Henry Stagg, a volatile force who brings excitement and danger to their fledgling religion.
As their faith grows, it takes on a life of its own, with Jason struggling to maintain its purity, Shin pouring his heart into writing their sacred texts, and Henry scheming to amplify the excitement – and risks – associated with their new creed. But when the Chutengodians hold their inaugural ceremony atop the water tower’s dome, chaos erupts, swiftly escalating from reckless to terrifying and ultimately deadly.
As Jason confronts the unintended consequences of his creation, he must grapple with the reality that inventing a religion is only half the battle – controlling it is the true challenge.
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas (Morris Award, 2018; Boston Globe-Horn Book Award, 2017, among others)
Starr Carter’s life is a delicate balancing act, toggling between the impoverished neighborhood where she grew up and the affluent prep school she attends. The harmony between these two worlds is disrupted when Starr witnesses the tragic shooting of her childhood friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. What makes this event even more devastating is that Khalil was unarmed.
As news of his death spreads, it becomes a national headline, with some people labeling him as a thug or drug dealer. Protests erupt in his name, and Khalil’s family faces intimidation from local law enforcement and the drug trade. Amidst this chaos, everyone wants to know what really happened that night. The only person who can provide answers is Starr, but her words could have far-reaching consequences – not just for her community, but also for her own life.
If You Could Be Mine by Sara Farizan (Lambda Literary Award, 2014)
Seventeen-year-old Sahar has harbored a secret love for her best friend, Nasrin, since they were just six years old. As they’ve grown older, the intensity of their feelings has only deepened. They’ve stolen kisses and whispered romantic promises to each other, but in Iran, where homosexuality is criminalized, their love could mean brutal punishment or even death.
To avoid detection, Sahar and Nasrin have kept their relationship hidden, biding their time until a sudden revelation rocks their world: Nasrin’s parents announce her arranged marriage. Desperate to save her beloved from a life not her own, Sahar stumbles upon an unexpected solution – sex reassignment surgery is legal in Iran, allowing individuals perceived as being trapped in the wrong body to undergo a gender transition.
For Sahar, this means she could finally be with Nasrin without fear of persecution. But is sacrificing her true self and embracing a new identity worth preserving their love?
Janis Joplin: Rise Up Singing by Ann Angel (Excellence in Young Adult Nonfiction, 2011)
Janis Joplin’s enduring legacy as a rock-and-roll icon is a testament to her unwavering passion and unrelenting spirit. Forty years after her tragic passing at just 27 years old, her impact on the music world remains profound. Ann Angel’s thoughtful account of Joplin’s life brings to light the complexities of an artist who defied conventions while striving to perfect her craft as a singer.
This is the story of a rebellious free spirit who yearned for love and acceptance, contrasted with the tender moments she shared through heartfelt letters to her mother. Ultimately, it is the tale of a pioneering female musician whose influence on American music history remains unparalleled.
Little and Lion by Brandy Colbert (Stonewall Award, 2017)
As Suzette returns home to Los Angeles from boarding school in New England, she’s torn between her desire to stay with her loved ones, including her crush Emil, and the need to support her stepbrother Lionel, who struggles with bipolar disorder. The familiarity of L. A. is comforting, yet the prospect of rekindling old relationships and navigating new ones is daunting.
Little does Suzette know that her life about to take an unexpected turn when she finds herself caught in a complicated web of emotions, torn between her loyalty to her brother and her growing feelings for someone who just happens to be the same person he’s fallen for. As Lionel’s condition spirals out of control, Suzette is forced to confront her past mistakes and find a way to help her brother before it’s too late, all while grappling with the uncertainty of her own future.
Lizard Radio by Pat Schmatz (James Tiptree, Jr. Award, 2015)
Kivali, a 15-year-old bender, has had a tumultuous existence in a culture that values conformity. Abandoned as an infant and raised by Sheila, a rebellious individual, Kivali’s life is shrouded in uncertainty. Her origins are unclear, with some suggesting she was deposited on Earth by the enigmatic saurians. The questions of her identity continue to plague her – boy, girl, human, lizard, or something in between?
As she navigates CropCamp, a space filled with schedules and regulations, Kivali finds herself surrounded by genuine friends for the first time. However, this newfound sense of belonging is complicated by strange occurrences and complex relationships that force her to confront questions she’s never had to consider before. One aspect sets her apart – the power to enter a trance-like state, allowing her to tap into the ‘knowings’ within her.
This gift, known as Lizard Radio, may hold the key to saving her, but will it be enough to overcome the challenges that lie ahead? This poignant coming-of-age story, filled with authentic friendships and the intensity of first love, is sure to resonate deeply with teenagers embarking on their journey as adults in a sometimes hostile world.
Love Is The Drug by Alaya Dawn Johnson (Norton Award, 2014)
Emily Bird’s life was a carefully constructed facade of perfection. Her hair was always immaculate, her boyfriend was charming, and her future at an Ivy-League institution was all but guaranteed. Yet, everything changed when she met Roosevelt David, a Homeland Security agent, at a high-society party in Washington D. C. The encounter ended with Bird waking up in a hospital days later, with no recollection of the events leading up to her admission.
The world around her had also taken a dramatic turn for the worse; a highly contagious and deadly flu virus was spreading rapidly, prompting widespread quarantines, curfews, and even martial law. Roosevelt’s determination to uncover the truth from Bird was unwavering, convinced that she possessed crucial knowledge about the virus – or more specifically, her parents’ secretive scientific work.
The only individual Bird could rely on for guidance was Coffee, a quiet yet brilliant outsider who peddled drugs to their classmates and fervently believed in conspiracy theories. And he believed in Bird. As Bird and Coffee delved deeper into the mysteries surrounding that fateful night, Bird began to realize that her memories might be more reliable than she initially thought.
The implications of what she knew, however, could have far-reaching consequences, potentially exposing a government scandal of monumental proportions.
Lumberjanes by Shannon Watters, Grace Ellis, Noelle Stevenson, and Brooke A. Allen (Eisner Award, 2015)
Lumberjanes is the critically acclaimed series from BOOM! Box that has captured the hearts of readers worldwide. Written by Noelle Stevenson (Nimona, Adventure Time) alongside newcomer Grace Ellis, and illustrated by Brooke Allen (A Home for Mr. Easter), this series has been hailed as a masterpiece, earning spots on numerous Best-Of-The-Year lists, including Comics Alliance, Entertainment Weekly, and Comic Book Resources. In the world of Lumberjanes, things aren’t always what they seem.
At Miss Qiunzella Thiskwin Penniquiqul Thistle Crumpet’s Camp for Hardcore Lady Types, hidden secrets abound, from three-eyed foxes to secret caves and anagrams waiting to be solved. Luckily, Jo, April, Mal, Molly, and Ripley are five best friends who embody the power of friendship as they navigate a magical quest filled with supernatural critters and mysteries that continue to unfold.
March: Book 3 by John Lewis, Nate Powell, and Andrew Aydin (National Book Award in Young People’s Literature, 2016; Printz Award, 2017; Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Readers, 2017, among others)
By autumn 1963, the Civil Rights Movement had become an integral part of the national discourse, with John Lewis, chair of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, at its forefront. Amidst escalating stakes and white supremacist resistance, government obstruction, civilian terrorism, and the assassination of a supportive president, African-Americans in the South continued to face blatant barriers to voting.
To spearhead their nonviolent revolution, Lewis and his peers launched a series of groundbreaking initiatives – including the Freedom Vote, Mississippi Freedom Summer, and a televised battle for the soul of the Democratic Party. However, internal power struggles within the movement were intensifying even as 25-year-old John Lewis prepared to take a monumental risk in Alabama, setting the stage for a historic showdown that would send shockwaves around the world.
Magic or Madness by Justine Larbalestier (Norton Award, 2006)
Reason Cansino has been on the move for fifteen years, constantly fleeing from her grandmother Esmeralda’s clutches. Alongside her mother Sarafina, they’ve traversed the Australian countryside, always staying one step ahead of Esmeralda’s relentless pursuit. The grandmother’s unwavering conviction in magic had instilled a deep-seated fear in Reason – that she might be found and forced to confront the very thing she’d been trying to escape.
However, all that changed when Reason found herself stepping onto the bustling streets of New York City, only to discover that her grandmother’s words were not mere fantasy after all. Magic was real, and it was staring her right in the face.
Moribito: Guardian of the Spirit by Nahoko Uehashi and translated by Cathy Hirano (Batchelder Award, 2009)
In this extraordinary fantasy novel, the deep roots of Japanese mythology converge with the Western tradition to create a richly detailed world that’s impossible to put down. At its center is Balsa, a restless warrior-adventurer whose life takes an unexpected turn when she rescues Prince Chagum from a treacherous river current.
As she commits to protecting the young prince, they embark on a perilous journey across Yogo, uncovering secrets about the mystical water spirit and its connection to the great egg that must be delivered to the sea’s source. But their quest is fraught with danger as they’re pursued by two formidable foes: the monstrous Rarunga, which feeds on eggs, and Prince Chagum’s own treacherous father.
Piecing Me Together by Renée Watson (Coretta Scott King Award, 2018, among others)
Jade’s desire for escape from her impoverished neighborhood is fueled by her mother’s mantra: seize every opportunity that comes your way. And Jade has done just that, daily commuting to a private school where she feels like an outsider among her peers. Despite the sense of isolation, this new environment has afforded her numerous opportunities to grow and learn.
However, not all opportunities resonate with her – such as the invitation to join Women to Women, a mentorship program for girls deemed ‘at-risk’. Although her black female mentor graduated from the same high school, Jade feels misunderstood by her, perpetuating feelings of being singled out and in need of repair. Tired of being viewed as someone to be fixed, Jade yearns to express herself authentically – through art, words, and emotions.
She hopes that by sharing her own struggles and triumphs, she might inspire other women to find their voices and make a positive impact.
The Problem with Forever by Jennifer L. Armentrout (RITA Award, 2017)
Mallory Dodge’s childhood taught her that silence was the best survival strategy. Four years after her traumatic experience ended, she’s worried that the lingering fear will continue to hold her back forever. As she prepares to spend her senior year in a public high school after years of homeschooling, Mallory is about to face an unexpected reunion with Rider Stark, her childhood friend and protector.
The connection they shared never truly dissipated, but as they navigate their new reality together, it becomes clear that both are struggling with the lasting impact of their past experiences. As Rider’s life begins to unravel, Mallory must decide whether to remain silent or speak out for the people she cares about, the life she wants, and the truths that need to be heard.
Putting Makeup on the Fat Boy by Bil Wright (Stonewall Award, 2012; Lambda Literary Award, 2012)
Carlos Duarte exudes confidence, boasting a keen sense of style that rivals some of New York City’s most fashion-conscious individuals. His makeup skills are equally impressive, with the ability to apply flawless designs like a seasoned pro. Despite being only in high school, Carlos has already secured his dream job as a makeup artist at FeatureFace counter in Macy’s – a feat that would make even the most jaded industry insiders take notice.
However, this competitive world of makeup artistry is notorious for its cutthroat nature, and if Carlos wants to achieve greatness, he’ll need to tap into an unwavering sense of self-belief.
The Rock and The River by Kekla Magoon (Coretta Scott King Award for New Talent, 2010)
As the 1968 Chicago summer unfolds, thirteen-year-old Sam Childs navigates a complex reality as the son of renowned civil rights activist Roland. His older brother Stick’s increasing aloofness only adds to the uncertainty. But when Sam stumbles upon literature about the Black Panthers hidden under Stick’s bed, everything changes. The discovery sets off a chain reaction of self-discovery and disillusionment as the world around him begins to unravel. The assassination of Dr.
King serves as a catalyst, leaving Sam questioning his father’s words and the efficacy of change. This poignant coming-of-age tale masterfully weaves together the tumultuous intersection of the civil rights and black power movements, offering an intimate and relatable perspective on the struggle.
Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli (Morris Award, 2016)
As Simon Spier, a 16-year-old high school student who prefers to keep his feelings hidden behind the scenes of the school musical, finds himself facing an unexpected crisis. An innocent email mistake puts his secret at risk of being exposed, forcing him to confront his fears and take a leap of faith. With friends to consider, his own identity to protect, and a chance at happiness with someone new on the horizon, Simon must navigate the challenges of self-acceptance and love in the modern era.
A Step From Heaven by An Na (Printz Award, 2002)
As Young Ju’s family settles into their new life in Southern California at age four, the reality is far from the idyllic haven she had imagined. The move from Korea is met with a mix of challenges: her parents struggle to adapt to their new surroundings, while Young Ju faces difficulties communicating and understanding American culture. Her younger brother, however, seems to fare better, as his gender allows him greater freedom and respect within the family.
As tensions mount and her once-stable family begins to fracture, Young Ju’s hope of creating a heaven on earth begins to wane. It isn’t until she starts to find her footing that a pivotal family event shakes her perspective, revealing the strength and resilience she possesses and inspiring her to envision a future filled with purpose and promise.
The Sun Is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon (Coretta Scott King Award for New Talent, 2017)
For Natasha, science and facts are the only guiding principles she’s ever known. The idea of fate or destiny is just a myth, something that doesn’t shape her reality. And as for dreams, they’re merely fantasies that never materialize. So when she meets Daniel on a busy New York City street, it’s hard to imagine any romantic outcome. Not with her family facing deportation to Jamaica in just twelve hours. Love isn’t going to be the story of her life.
On the other hand, Daniel has always been driven by a desire to please his parents and achieve academic success. He’s never been one for poetic expression or daydreaming. But then he meets Natasha, and everything changes. There’s something about her that makes him wonder if fate is trying to tell them something more profound than just coincidence. As they stand at this pivotal moment in their lives, the universe presents them with a multitude of possibilities.
Every decision, every action, has led them to this exact spot. The question remains: which path will they choose?
This One Summer by Jillian Tamaki and Mariko Tamaki (Ignatz Outstanding Graphic Novel Award, 2014)
Every year, Rose’s family makes their way to Awago Beach for a lakeside retreat. For her, it’s a chance to unwind and reconnect with her parents and best friend Windy, who’s always by her side like a little sister. But this summer is marked by tension between her mom and dad, whose constant arguing creates an atmosphere of unease. Seeking a distraction from the drama, Rose and Windy find themselves entangled in a local teenager’s crisis – a situation that puts their lives at risk.
As they navigate the treacherous waters of secrets, sorrow, and self-discovery, it’s fortunate for them to have each other to rely on.
Through The Woods by Emily Carroll (Ignatz Outstanding Artist Award, 2015)
Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers by Deborah Heiligman (Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults, 2018)
The bond between Vincent and Theo Van Gogh was profound and far-reaching. As Vincent navigated the complexities of life, Theo stood by his side as confidant, advocate, and trusted friend. The brothers shared a deep connection, exchanging stories of romance, friendships, triumphs, and setbacks, as well as their collective hopes and aspirations.
Through meticulous research into the 658 letters Vincent penned to Theo during his lifetime, Deborah Heiligman masterfully crafts a narrative that explores the extraordinary bond between these two brothers, whose lives were inextricably linked by their love for each other.
We Are Okay by Nina LaCour (Printz Award, 2018)
You can’t help but feel like there’s so much missing from your life until you’re left with only the essentials: your phone, wallet, and a treasured memento of your mother. For Marin, this stark reality became her new normal after abandoning everything behind. She hasn’t spoken to anyone from her old life since that fateful day, including her closest friend Mabel, who remained oblivious to the truth about those tumultuous final weeks.
Yet, despite the distance – thousands of miles separating her from the California coast and her college days in New York – Marin still feels an inexplicable pull towards the life she tried to leave behind. Now, months later, as she spends a solitary winter break in her emptied dorm room, Marin waits anxiously for the arrival of Mabel, who will soon bring with her the unspoken truths and a confrontation with the crushing loneliness that has taken up residence in Marin’s heart.
When The Moon Was Ours by Anna-Marie McLemore (James Tiptree, Jr. Award, 2016)
Miel and Sam, an inseparable duo known for their peculiarity, have always been shrouded in mystery. For instance, roses mysteriously sprout from Miel’s wrist, while whispers circulate about her having tumbled out of a water tower when she was just five years old. Sam, on the other hand, is famous for his celestial masterpieces – moons he paints and hangs in the trees, leaving everyone curious about his life before moving to town with his mother.
Despite their unconventional nature, even Miel and Sam tend to steer clear of the enigmatic Bonner sisters, four stunning women rumored to possess mystical powers. However, this time around, the Bonners are fixated on Miel’s roses, convinced that their intoxicating aroma can effortlessly induce love in anyone. And they’re willing to go to great lengths – exploiting every secret Miel has fought to safeguard – to get their hands on these rare and precious blooms.
Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr (RITA Award, 2008)
Aislinn has always possessed a unique gift – the ability to perceive faeries, powerful and malevolent beings that lurk in the mortal realm. Her Sight fills her with trepidation, particularly given the brutal nature of these creatures and the risk they pose if they discover her extraordinary abilities. Aislinn longs to be as oblivious to their presence as everyone else, hoping to avoid their cruelty and manipulation.
Two fundamental rules have guided her existence: never engage in conversation with invisible faeries, and above all, refrain from attracting their attention. However, these guidelines have lost their effectiveness now that Keenan, the enigmatic Summer King, has begun stalking her. This captivating yet intimidating figure has been searching for his queen for nine centuries, and he is relentless in his pursuit of Aislinn, determined to make her the next Summer Queen at any cost.
As the rules that have safeguarded Aislinn’s freedom and anonymity collapse, everything she holds dear hangs precariously in the balance – including Seth, her closest friend, and ultimately, her very existence. The stakes are higher than ever before, with the fate of summer itself hanging in the balance.
Wildthorn by Jane Eagland (Lambda Literary Award, 2010)
In 19th century England, seventeen-year-old Louisa Cosgrove defied societal expectations by rejecting the sheltered life afforded to girls of wealth. She yearned for autonomy, free from the constraints of femininity. Her dreams were rooted in her fascination with her older brother’s world – playing marbles, attending school, and becoming a doctor. Little did she know that her family would go to great lengths to stifle these aspirations.
The turning point came when Louisa found herself confined to an insane asylum, with everyone referring to her as Lucy Childs instead of Louisa Cosgrove. As the mystery unfolded, she discovered that her own family was not who they seemed. In this desolate place, Louisa’s only solace came from Eliza, a mysterious figure whose love and loyalty became the catalyst for her liberation.
Through their bond, Louisa uncovered the treachery that had led to her imprisonment, and in doing so, realized that love was the key to her freedom.
Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass by Meg Medina (Belpré Award, 2014)
