Back to School: YA Books I Love
I’m a big believer that any genre can enjoyed by any reader at any age. Especially as we get older, I think there is a lot of value in learning from young people and not trying to disregard their feelings. I still love to read YA and I can recognize that it’s not meant for me without tearing it down. Writing through the lens of a young person is HARD but remember, YA, Middle Grade, Children’s books those are the genres that make readers.
In honor of back to school time (I can’t believe some kids and teachers have been back since early August! We don’t do that in the North lol) I wanted to put together a list of some of my favorite YA reads. I highly recommend reading them and even suggesting to the teens in your life, reading and discussing them together.
All cover images belong to the artist and publisher.
As If On Cue by Marissa Kanter
If you were/are a theatre kid, YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK. It so perfectly captures those feelings!
The Chandler Legacies by Abdi Nazemian
Boarding school vibes with this book! I did the audio and it was fun, though TW for sexual assault/harassment between teacher and student.
12 to 22 by Jen Calonita
Amazon | Bookshop.org
This is a middle grade/YA retelling of 13 Going on 30 in the age of TikTok. I think it would be one that’s really great to read along with young teens if you’re a parent or teacher.
All My Rage by Sabaa Tahir
Oh my gosh, this book in incredible but DEEPLY sad and difficult. I did the audiobook and had to take breaks but I’m ultimately glad I read it.
Tokyo Ever After and Tokyo Dreaming by Emiko Jean
Amazon | Bookshop.org
THIS SERIES! The Princess Diaries but in Japan with a cute bodyguard romance. It’s so so so good.
The Passing Playback by Issac Fitzsimmons
Oh gosh I adore this book. It’s about a trans boy who leaves his school after he is outed online and goes to a private school. He wants to play school but when he’s outed again. parents and teachers don’t want him to play with the “real boys.” It’s hopeful, sweet, and very informative for cis people.
Firekeeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley
Looking for something with a thriller and mystery vibe? I cannot recommend this book enough! TW for drugs and gun violence.
Happily Ever Afters by Elise Bryant
This book is adorable and so wise. It’s about a girl at an elite arts high school trying to find her voice as a writer. It has a great cast of characters!
Legendborn by Tracey Deonn
If you haven’t read it yet, now is a great time because the sequel is out this Fall! It’s a King Arthur retelling set at a college in North Carolina. IT’S SO GOOD. Highly recommend the audio!
The Comeback by E.L. Shen
A sweet middle grade novel set in Lake Placid! It’s about Maxine, a figure skater, who wants to be the very best. But she struggles with racism in her overwhelmingly white town and balancing friendships, school, and her dreams.
Do you have any YA books you love to recommend?