Best Books For Teens

A teenage girl, Starr Carter, must navigate between two worlds: her poor neighborhood and her wealthy prep school. After witnessing the fatal shooting of her unarmed childhood friend at the hands of a police officer, Starr must decide whether or not to speak out and risk her own safety. The Hate U Give is a powerful exploration of racial tensions and police brutality that will leave readers questioning their own assumptions and beliefs.

A heart-wrenching yet inspiring memoir that delves into the complexities of growing up in a family struggling with addiction. Follow the story of Jarrett, who navigates life with a mother in and out of rehab and a father he knows little about. Despite the turmoil, Jarrett finds solace in expressing himself through art and eventually must confront the truths of his family's struggles. A truly profound and remarkable read.

High school is tough enough without becoming an outcast for doing the right thing. Melinda's high school experience takes a dark turn when she's raped at a party, leaving her isolated and unable to speak out. Only her art class provides any solace, and it's through her work on a project that she begins to heal. But when she has another violent encounter with her rapist, Melinda fights back and finally achieves vindication. In this powerful novel, Laurie Halse Anderson tackles the hypocrisy of high school and the importance of speaking up for oneself. A finalist for the National Book Award, Speak is a poignant and unforgettable story.

A beautifully crafted novel that offers a raw, honest portrayal of grief, loneliness, and the power of love. When Marin leaves everything behind, she finds herself struggling to outrun tragedy and the pain of her past. Months later, she's alone in a dorm waiting for her best friend to visit and finally confront the unsaid. This moving, poignant story is a must-read for anyone who's ever felt lost or alone. Praise for the novel's exquisite writing, emotional impact, and profound beauty makes We Are Okay a moving portrait of healing and resilience.