Empowering YA Reads Featuring Strong Female Protagonists
Explore this curated list of YA books that celebrate female empowerment without the distraction of romance. These stories focus on personal growth, adventure, and self-discovery, perfect for young readers looking to connect with inspiring characters. Dive into these narratives that prioritize friendship, ambition, and identity over love interests.
Every Heart a Doorway
174 pages
This book is a must-read for its representation of asexuality and LGBTQ characters, making it a unique and inclusive fantasy experience.
Tiffany Aching Complete 5-Book Collection
834 pages
The Tiffany Aching arc in the Discworld series is a delightful journey of self-discovery, featuring a young witch in training who grows from a 9-year-old to an 18-year-old. The series is filled with humor, especially from the hilarious Wee Free Men, and explores themes of friendship and personal growth, all while keeping the romantic interests light and secondary to the main plot.
Hilda and the Troll
40 pages
The Hilda series by Luke Pearson follows a girl and her mom navigating life from the woods to the city, making it an engaging adventure.
Lumberjanes #1
26 pages
Noelle Stevenson is a very inclusive graphic novelist, and Lumberjanes portrays all types of different girls and women.
Be Prepared
258 pages
Be Prepared is about a summer camp experience, touching on relationships in a subtle way.
Sisters: A Graphic Novel
211 pages
Sisters by Raina Telgemeier delves into family relationships, making it a compelling read.
Nimona
272 pages
Nimona is another great work by Noelle Stevenson that showcases inclusivity and diverse characters.
Protector of the Small Quartet
718 pages
These books feature strong women in a medieval fantasy world who break barriers to become knights or spies, making them a timeless favorite that I still enjoy after 15 years!
358 pages
This graphic novel is a sweet and fun story about a gay hockey player from Georgia who finds love and friendship at a small university in New England.
A Bookman's Catalogue Vol. 1 A-L
538 pages
This fantastic read centers on the romance between the son of the first female president of the US and a Prince of England, filled with drama, humor, and sweetness that kept me hooked in a day.
Pulp
160 pages
This book tells a compelling love story between two women during the Lavender Scare in the 1950s, intertwined with a modern girl's project on lesbian pulp fiction.
The Golden Compass
420 pages
Now in a deluxe Knopf Paperback edition here is the first book in Philip Pullman's critically acclaimed epic fantasy trilogy chronicalling the otherworldly adventures of Lyra and her companions.
Walk Two Moons
292 pages
It's a solid read that offers a heartfelt journey through loss and discovery.
Skyward
546 pages
Skyward features a strong female protagonist who focuses on her journey without the distraction of romantic interests, making it a refreshing read.
Abhorsen
532 pages
These books resonated strongly with me as a teenager, and I wore out the bindings from rereading them so many times.
Radio Silence
283 pages
This book features a strong bi female protagonist and is centered around friendship, making it a perfect read for those who prefer stories without romance.
The Girl Who Drank the Moon (Winner of the 2017 Newbery Medal)
401 pages
It's a fantasy story about a girl taken from her mother to be sacrificed to a witch, following the journey of three strong women. The book beautifully conveys messages of family love, kindness, and innocence.
Pax
237 pages
This story follows a boy on his journey to reunite with his pet, featuring an inspiring woman who, though not a main character, leaves a significant impact. It highlights that you don't have to be perfect to make a difference in the lives of others.
Graceling
481 pages
Graceling features a strong female protagonist who is incredibly self-sufficient, making it a compelling read. The love interest is secondary to her journey, which remains unresolved, adding depth to the story.
Relic
529 pages
It's a thrilling adventure about a monster returning from an archaeological expedition and wreaking havoc at the Museum of Natural History, making it a rollicking good read.
Grave Peril
358 pages
This book introduces a wizard in Chicago, featuring strong female characters and a gripping plot about saving friends from monsters, with Karren Murphy as a standout badass policewoman.
The Silence of the Lambs
360 pages
An epic book that provided me with a role model in Clarice Starling at just the right time.
This Savage Song
This Savage Song is an engaging urban fantasy that stands out for its focus on strong female characters who navigate their world without the distraction of romance, making it a refreshing read in the YA genre.
A Wrinkle in Time
260 pages
It's a fascinating read that takes you on a journey through time and space, and it's interesting to note that it doesn't focus on a love interest.
Uprooted
449 pages
Uprooted is beautifully written and while it includes romance, it's not the main focus of the story, making it a captivating read.
Mistborn
676 pages
It's a fantastic series that captivated my 12-year-old daughter, who absolutely LOVED it!
Walk Two Moons
231 pages
Don’t judge a man until you’ve walked two moons in his moccasins. What is the meaning of this strange message left on the doorstep? Only Sal knows, and on a roadtrip with her grandparents she tells the bizarre tale of Phoebe Winterbottom, Phoebe’s disappearing mother and the lunatic. But who can help Sal make sense of the mystery that surrounds her own story . . . and her own missing mother?
Esperanza Rising (Scholastic Gold)
194 pages
A modern classic for our time and for all time-this beloved, award-winning bestseller resonates with fresh meaning for each new generation. Perfect for fans of Kate DiCamillo, Christopher Paul Curtis, and Rita Williams-Garcia. Pura Belpre Award Winner * "Readers will be swept up." -Publishers Weekly, starred review Esperanza thought she'd always live a privileged life on her family's ranch in Mexico. She'd always have fancy dresses, a beautiful home filled with servants, and Mama, Papa, and Abuelita to care for her. But a sudden tragedy forces Esperanza and Mama to flee to California and settle in a Mexican farm labor camp. Esperanza isn't ready for the hard work, financial struggles brought on by the Great Depression, or lack of acceptance she now faces. When Mama gets sick and a strike for better working conditions threatens to uproot their new life, Esperanza must find a way to rise above her difficult circumstances--because Mama's life, and her own, depend on it.
Trickster's Queen
498 pages
Tamora Pierce's books often feature strong female protagonists, but many of them include romantic relationships. If your kid is looking to avoid romance, it might be better to read these after exploring other stories without romantic themes.
Abhorsen
420 pages
These books resonated strongly with me as a teenager, and I wore out the bindings from rereading them so many times.
An Absolutely Remarkable Thing
345 pages
I just finished An Absolutely Remarkable Thing and I couldn’t put it down! While it has some romance, that's not the main focus of the story.
The Mystwick School of Musicraft
373 pages
Twelve-year-old Amelia gets the opportunity to attend a boarding school and learn how to use music to create magic, hoping to become a Maestro like her deceased mother.
Moon Over Manifest
385 pages
Moon over Manifest might be a bit young, but it is definitely worth the read.
In An Orchard Grown From Ash
480 pages
Wilder Girls is an intriguing tale about three young women trapped at a boarding school, with no romance to distract from the suspense.
The Lady's Guide to Petticoats and Piracy
357 pages
The Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy is a fun romp that can be enjoyed on its own, even though it's technically a sequel.
Sawkill Girls
406 pages
Sawkill Girls features a wlw storyline and is a supernatural fantasy about stopping a monster who steals girls, making it a unique read.
The Hate U Give
447 pages
A brilliant and powerful story that, while not queer, offers important themes and strong characters.
Dealing with Dragons
210 pages
This book is a fun twist on the classic fairy tale, featuring a princess who chooses adventure over a dull marriage, making it a delightful read for those who enjoy strong female characters and imaginative storytelling.
Rogue One: A Star Wars Story
286 pages
While not a book, 'Star Wars: Rogue One' perfectly exemplifies the ideals your daughter is looking for. It's an excellent choice!
With the Fire on High
293 pages
This novel emphasizes the importance of focusing on ourselves as teens to achieve our goals, while also featuring an LGBTQ best friend.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time
292 pages
Fifteen year old Christopher is about to embark on an investigation... Lots of things are mysteries. But that doesn't mean there isn't an answer to them. It was 7 minutes after midnight. The dog was lying on the grass in the middle of the lawn in front of Mrs Shears' house. Its eyes were closed. It looked as if it was running on its side, the way dogs run when they think they are chasing a cat in a dream. But the dog was not running or asleep. The dog was dead. This is Christopher's murder mystery story. There are also no lies in this story because Christopher can't tell lies. Christopher does not like strangers or the colours yellow or brown or being touched. On the other hand, he knows all the countries in the world and their capital cities and every prime number up to 7507. When Christopher decides to find out who killed the neighbour's dog, his mystery story becomes more complicated than he could have ever predicted. 'Outstanding... a stunningly good read' Observer 'A superb achievement. He is a wise and bleakly funny writer with rare gifts of empathy' Ian McEwan **ONE OF THE GUARDIAN'S 100 BEST BOOKS OF THE 21st CENTURY**
The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle (Scholastic Gold)
232 pages
This book tells the captivating story of a sheltered girl who embarks on a ship from England to America, discovering her love for adventure and sailing along the way.
The Enchanted Forest Chronicles
882 pages
This series is a must-read as it cleverly subverts fairytale tropes in a fun and empowering way. The first book features a princess who runs away to work for a dragon, challenging absurd social norms, and includes a witch with 9 cats facing societal pressure. It's a delightful twist on traditional stories!
The Poet X
345 pages
Winner of the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature, the Michael L. Printz Award, and the Pura Belpré Award! Fans of Jacqueline Woodson, Meg Medina, and Jason Reynolds will fall hard for this astonishing New York Times-bestselling novel-in-verse by an award-winning slam poet, about an Afro-Latina heroine who tells her story with blazing words and powerful truth. Xiomara Batista feels unheard and unable to hide in her Harlem neighborhood. Ever since her body grew into curves, she has learned to let her fists and her fierceness do the talking. But Xiomara has plenty she wants to say, and she pours all her frustration and passion onto the pages of a leather notebook, reciting the words to herself like prayers—especially after she catches feelings for a boy in her bio class named Aman, who her family can never know about. With Mami’s determination to force her daughter to obey the laws of the church, Xiomara understands that her thoughts are best kept to herself. So when she is invited to join her school’s slam poetry club, she doesn’t know how she could ever attend without her mami finding out. But she still can’t stop thinking about performing her poems. Because in the face of a world that may not want to hear her, Xiomara refuses to be silent. “Crackles with energy and snaps with authenticity and voice.” —Justina Ireland, author of Dread Nation “An incredibly potent debut.” —Jason Reynolds, author of the National Book Award Finalist Ghost “Acevedo has amplified the voices of girls en el barrio who are equal parts goddess, saint, warrior, and hero.” —Ibi Zoboi, author of American Street This young adult novel, a selection of the Schomburg Center's Black Liberation Reading List, is an excellent choice for accelerated tween readers in grades 6 to 8. Plus don't miss Elizabeth Acevedo's With the Fire on High and Clap When You Land!
On the Come Up
416 pages
The YA love letter to hip-hop—streaming on Paramount+ September 23, 2022! Starring Sanaa Lathan (in her directorial debut), Jamila C. Gray, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, Lil Yachty, Method Man, Mike Epps, GaTa (Davionte Ganter), Miles Gutierrez-Riley, Titus Makin Jr., and Michael Anthony Cooper Jr. #1 New York Times bestseller · Seven starred reviews · Boston Globe-Horn Book Award Honor Book This digital edition contains a letter from the author, deleted scenes, a picture of the author as a teen rapper, an annotated playlist, Angie’s top 5 MCs, an annotated rap, illustrated quotes from the book, and an excerpt from Concrete Rose, Angie's return to Garden Heights. Sixteen-year-old Bri wants to be one of the greatest rappers of all time. Or at least win her first battle. As the daughter of an underground hip hop legend who died right before he hit big, Bri’s got massive shoes to fill. But it’s hard to get your come up when you’re labeled a hoodlum at school, and your fridge at home is empty after your mom loses her job. So Bri pours her anger and frustration into her first song, which goes viral . . . for all the wrong reasons. Bri soon finds herself at the center of a controversy, portrayed by the media as more menace than MC. But with an eviction notice staring her family down, Bri doesn’t just want to make it—she has to. Even if it means becoming the very thing the public has made her out to be. Insightful, unflinching, and full of heart, On the Come Up is an ode to hip hop from one of the most influential literary voices of a generation. It is the story of fighting for your dreams, even as the odds are stacked against you; and about how, especially for young black people, freedom of speech isn’t always free. “For all the struggle in this book, Thomas rarely misses a step as a writer. Thomas continues to hold up that mirror with grace and confidence. We are lucky to have her, and lucky to know a girl like Bri.”—The New York Times Book Review Plus don't miss Concrete Rose, Angie Thomas's powerful prequel to her phenomenal bestseller, The Hate U Give!
Cells at Work!
200 pages
This manga offers a unique perspective with a female protagonist who focuses on her role as an anthropomorphic red blood cell, making it both entertaining and educational.
Poison
211 pages
This book is a captivating adventure that follows a young woman's quest across various realms to rescue her kidnapped sister, filled with themes of friendship and self-discovery.
Bartimaeus Trilogy, Book One: Amulet of Samarkand, The (International edition)
468 pages
This amazing fantasy comedy action series features a strong female character who stands up for herself, making it a refreshing read without any love interests.
The Westing Game
242 pages
It's a fantastic mystery for junior high students, featuring a strong female protagonist and a complex plot with many twists. The absence of romantic elements makes it a unique read, and its engaging storyline keeps readers turning the pages.
Zahrah the Windseeker
324 pages
This book is a beautiful fantasy coming-of-age story that I read once a year. It features an exceptionally crafted world without the typical chosen one trope, and the romance is sweet and subtle, only appearing at the very end. The majority of the story focuses on Zahrah's journey through the jungle, showcasing her growth into a stronger individual.
Cockfight
78 pages
This is my top recommendation, suggesting it has something special that makes it stand out.
Seven Ways We Lie
354 pages
With multiple protagonists, this book features strong female characters, and only one or two of them have romantic plotlines, making it a great choice for non-romance lovers.
Foundryside
588 pages
This book features minor romance and includes LGBT elements, making it a unique and inclusive read.
Nevermoor
311 pages
WINNER OF THE WATERSTONES CHILDREN'S BOOK PRIZE 2018 YOUNGER FICTION CATEGORY WINNER OF RED MAGAZINE'S BIG BOOK 'BEST CHILDREN'S BOOK (7-12)' AWARD International bestselling new series. Enter the Wundrous world of Morrigan Crow and Nevermoor - the most fantastical children's series of the year. "Exciting, mysterious, marvellous and magical ... quite simply one of the best children's books I've read in years" - Robin Stevens, author of Murder Most Unladylike "An extraordinary story full of magics great and small" - Kiran Millwood Hargrave, author of The Girl of Ink and Stars "Endlessly inventive, with a fresh delight on every page. Nevermoor rewrites the genre of the Chosen Child novel. This is a special book" - David Solomons, author of My Brother is a Superhero "A full-speed joy of a book; funny, quick-footed, and wildly, magically inventive" - Katherine Rundell, author of Rooftoppers "A wonderful, warm-hearted magical adventure" - Sunday Express "Funny and delightful" - The Sunday Times Morrigan Crow is cursed, destined to die on her eleventh birthday. But, as the clock strikes midnight, she's whisked away by a remarkable man called Jupter North and taken to the secret city of Nevermoor. There she's invited to join the Wundrous Society. Mystery, magica and protection are hers - if only she can pass four impossible trials, using an exceptional talent. Which she doesn't have... Perfect for fans of the Harry Potter series and His Dark Materials, this series takes readers into an extraordinary world, setting hope and imagination alive.
The Hero and the Crown
219 pages
An outcast princess must earn her birthright as a hero of the realm—in this “utterly engrossing” Newbery Medal–winning fantasy (The New York Times). Aerin is an outcast in her own father’s court, daughter of the foreign woman who, it was rumored, was a witch, and enchanted the king to marry her. She makes friends with her father’s lame, retired warhorse, Talat, and discovers an old, overlooked, and dangerously imprecise recipe for dragon-fire-proof ointment in a dusty corner of her father’s library. Two years, many canter circles to the left to strengthen Talat’s weak leg, and many burnt twigs (and a few fingers) secretly experimenting with the ointment recipe later, Aerin is present when someone comes from an outlying village to report a marauding dragon to the king. Aerin slips off alone to fetch her horse, her sword, and her fireproof ointment . . . But modern dragons, while formidable opponents fully capable of killing a human being, are small and accounted vermin. There is no honor in killing dragons. The great dragons are a tale out of ancient history. That is, until the day that the king is riding out at the head of an army. A weary man on an exhausted horse staggers into the courtyard where the king’s troop is assembled: “The Black Dragon has come . . . Maur, who has not been seen for generations, the last of the great dragons, great as a mountain. Maur has awakened.”
Coraline
210 pages
The bewitching classic children's novel by Neil Gaiman, featuring spellbinding illustrations from Chris Riddell and an exclusive new introduction by the author 'I was enthralled ... a marvellously strange and scary book' Philip Pullman 'A masterpiece' Terry Pratchett There is something strange about Coraline's new home. It's not the mist, or the cat that always seems to be watching her, nor the signs of danger that Miss Spink and Miss Forcible, her new neighbours, read in the tea leaves. It's the other house – the one behind the old door in the drawing room. Another mother and father with black-button eyes and papery skin are waiting for Coraline to join them there. And they want her to stay with them. For ever. She knows that if she ventures through that door, she may never come back. This deliciously creepy, gripping novel is packed with glorious illustrations by Chris Riddell, and is guaranteed to delight and entrance readers of all ages.
I Was Born for This
307 pages
A fantastic read for fans of fandom culture, this book has zero romance and showcases multiple strong characters, including a trans lead.
Tamora Pierce
153 pages
Tamora Pierce's books are all about female empowerment and breaking boundaries for women, making them a must-read for anyone interested in strong female characters.
Persepolis
Contains black-and-white comic strip images in which the author shares the story of her life in Tehran, Iran, where she lived from ages six to fourteen while the country came under control of the Islamic regime.
Every Colour of You
226 pages
How can one person change everything? ***Don't miss Amelia Mandeville's heart-stopping new novel - THE MISSING PIECES OF ME is available to pre-order now*** 'It truly broke my heart and put it back together again' Reader review 'This story is beautiful, it has touched my soul and has lit up my heart' Reader review 'You literally feel every emotion on the spectrum along with these characters' Reader reviewer _______________________ Zoe and Tristan couldn't be more different - which is precisely why, when they meet in a hospital waiting room, Zoe becomes determined to get to know Tristan more. But Tristan is struggling with a sadness no one seems to understand, least of all himself. Giving up isn't in Zoe's nature, and as the two spend more time together, it seems like Tristan might be coming around to seeing the world the way she does. Until one day when everything changes - and in trying to put Tristan back together, Zoe finds herself falling apart . . . Heart-breaking, heart-healing and a story you won't want to end, Amelia Mandeville's unforgettable debut is perfect for fans of If Only I Could Tell You, The Summer of Impossible Things and Giovanna Fletcher _______________________ Let Every Colour of You break your heart and put it back together again . . . WHAT READERS ARE SAYING 'Beautiful . . . filled with colourful characters' Emma Cooper, author of The Songs of Us 'I'm not over the ending yet . . . Simply stunning' Goodreads reviewer 'A touching, heart-warming, feel-good novel' Goodreads reviewer 'An utterly heart wrenching tale of friendship, love, happiness, sadness, fun and pure joy' NetGalley reviewer 'A story that is both heartbreaking and heartwarming all at once (yes it is possible)' Goodreads reviewer 'Beautifully written and full of emotion' NetGalley reviewer _______________________ Perfect for fans of If You Were Here, The Day We Met and The Shape of Us
Ella Enchanted
244 pages
Despite the romance, this book showcases one of the most impactful female characters of my childhood, and I believe every young girl should read it.
Protect and Defend
614 pages
This book tackles the complex issue of abortion and is described as insanely good, making it a compelling read for those interested in thought-provoking narratives.
One of Us Is Lying
343 pages
This book features multiple protagonists, with one female lead learning that she doesn't need a love interest, making it a compelling read.
The Resolutions
338 pages
This story has four protagonists, including a gay male character and three females, with one main lead who navigates her journey without a love interest.
Sabriel (adult)
324 pages
These books resonated strongly with me as a teenager, and I wore out the bindings from rereading them so many times.
Loveless
This upcoming release focuses on platonic love and self-discovery without the need for romance, making it a unique addition to the genre.
Jane Doe and Cradle of All Worlds
289 pages
John Doe and his infant daughter, Jane, appeared on the steps of the Manor the night the earthquakes started and the gateway to the Otherworlds closed. The people on the remote island of Bluehaven have despised them ever since, blaming Jane and her father for their exile. Fourteen years after that night, the largest earthquake yet strikes. The Manor awakens, dragging John into its labyrinth. Accompanied by a pyromaniac named Violet and a trickster named Hickory, Jane must rescue her father and defeat an immortal villain who is trying to harness the mythical power of the Manor.
Dragonsong
224 pages
Fifteen-year-old Menolly allies with magnificent dragons in the first book in the Harper Hall trilogy, set within science fiction legend Anne McCaffrey’s beloved and bestselling Dragonriders of Pern series. For centuries, the world of Pern has faced a destructive force known as Thread. But the number of magnificent dragons who have protected this world and the men and women who ride them are dwindling. As fewer dragons ride the winds and destruction falls from the sky, Menolly has only one dream: to sing, play, and weave the music that comes to her so easily—she wishes to become a Harper. But despite her great talents, her father believes that a young girl is unworthy of such a respected position and forbids her to pursue her dreams. So Menolly runs away, taking shelter in a cave by the sea. Miraculously, she happens upon nine fire lizards that could possibly save her world...and change her life forever.
Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard, Book 3: The Ship of the Dead
419 pages
The Magnus Chase books feature diverse characters and a light touch of romance, particularly in the last book, while still delivering an engaging story.
Dragonflight
356 pages
The Pern series uniquely blends fantasy and sci-fi while showcasing strong female characters who stand on their own, making it a groundbreaking read for teens.
Turnabout
186 pages
Turnabout is another older YA sci-fi work by Margaret Haddix that continues to captivate readers without the distraction of romance.
The Heroes of Olympus, Book One: The Lost Hero
589 pages
Heroes of Olympus introduces more romance, yet it remains secondary to the plot, ensuring that the adventure stays front and center.
Grip of the Shadow Plague
512 pages
Very strange things are afoot at Fablehaven. Someone or something has released a plague that transforms beings of light into creatures of darkness. Seth discovers the problem early, but as the infectious disease spreads, it becomes clear that the preserve cannot hold out for long. In dire need of help, the Sorensons question where to turn. The Sphinx has always given sound advice -- but is he a traitor? Inside the Quiet Box, Vanessa might have information that could lead to a cure -- but can she be trusted? Meanwhile, Kendra and members of the Knights of the Dawn must journey to a distant preserve and retrieve another hidden artifact. Will the Society of the Evening Star recover it first? Will the plague eclipse all light at Fablehaven?
Redwall
Redwall is a captivating series with minimal romance, focusing instead on its rich storytelling and the adventures of talking animals.
Running Out of Time
202 pages
Running Out of Time is a classic YA sci-fi novel that remains engaging and free of romance.
Marion Zimmer Bradley's Ravens of Avalon
422 pages
The Avalon series is a captivating retelling of Arthurian legends from a female perspective, making it a must-read for strong readers.
So You Want to Be a Wizard
403 pages
Diane Duane’s So You Want to Be A Wizard series combines light romance with a unique science fiction twist on magic, offering excellent world-building and strong female characters.
Changing Planes
Changing Planes is a criminally underrated short story series that offers a fun, non-romantic read for fans of speculative fiction.
The Spellcoats
260 pages
Tanqui discovers she has the only means to conquer the evil Kankredin who threatens her own people and the Heathens who have invaded prehistoric Dalemark.
Goldenhand
397 pages
This series is perfect for those seeking a YA fantasy with a strong female lead and minimal romance, featuring great queer representation, including a canonically asexual character.
Howl's Moving Castle
336 pages
Diana Wynne Jones's works, like Howl's Moving Castle, are some of the highest-quality fantasy ever written, treating romance as a humorous aside rather than the main focus.
The Dark Lord of Derkholm
347 pages
A hilarious adventure about a fantasy world in danger of destruction from that most vile of threats... tourism .Winner of the Mythopoeic Fantasy Award for Children’s Literature in 1999.
We Were Liars
242 pages
#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • A modern, sophisticated suspense novel from National Book Award finalist, and Printz Award honoree E. Lockhart. Don't miss the #1 New York Times bestselling prequel, Family of Liars. A beautiful and distinguished family. A private island. A brilliant, damaged girl; a passionate, political boy. A group of four friends—the Liars—whose friendship turns destructive. A revolution. An accident. A secret. Lies upon lies. True love. The truth. Read it. And if anyone asks you how it ends, just LIE. "Thrilling, beautiful, and blisteringly smart, We Were Liars is utterly unforgettable." —John Green, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Fault in Our Stars
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe
384 pages
Now a major motion picture starring Max Pelayo, Reese Gonzales, and Eva Longoria! A Time Best YA Book of All Time (2021) Dive into the award-winning, internationally renowned book that is a “tender, honest exploration of identity” (Publishers Weekly) and distills lyrical truths about family and friendship—featuring images from the film! Aristotle is an angry teen with a brother in prison. Dante is a know-it-all who has an unusual way of looking at the world. When the two meet at the swimming pool, they seem to have nothing in common. But as the loners start spending time together, they discover that they share a special friendship—the kind that changes lives and lasts a lifetime. And it is through this friendship that Ari and Dante will learn the most important truths about themselves and the kind of people they want to be.
All American Boys
229 pages
A 2016 Coretta Scott King Author Honor book, and recipient of the Walter Dean Myers Award for Outstanding Children’s Literature. In this New York Times bestselling novel, two teens—one black, one white—grapple with the repercussions of a single violent act that leaves their school, their community, and, ultimately, the country bitterly divided by racial tension. A bag of chips. That’s all sixteen-year-old Rashad is looking for at the corner bodega. What he finds instead is a fist-happy cop, Paul Galluzzo, who mistakes Rashad for a shoplifter, mistakes Rashad’s pleadings that he’s stolen nothing for belligerence, mistakes Rashad’s resistance to leave the bodega as resisting arrest, mistakes Rashad’s every flinch at every punch the cop throws as further resistance and refusal to STAY STILL as ordered. But how can you stay still when someone is pounding your face into the concrete pavement? There were witnesses: Quinn Collins—a varsity basketball player and Rashad’s classmate who has been raised by Paul since his own father died in Afghanistan—and a video camera. Soon the beating is all over the news and Paul is getting threatened with accusations of prejudice and racial brutality. Quinn refuses to believe that the man who has basically been his savior could possibly be guilty. But then Rashad is absent. And absent again. And again. And the basketball team—half of whom are Rashad’s best friends—start to take sides. As does the school. And the town. Simmering tensions threaten to explode as Rashad and Quinn are forced to face decisions and consequences they had never considered before. Written in tandem by two award-winning authors, this four-starred reviewed tour de force shares the alternating perspectives of Rashad and Quinn as the complications from that single violent moment, the type taken directly from today’s headlines, unfold and reverberate to highlight an unwelcome truth.
Long Way Down
320 pages
As Will, fifteen, sets out to avenge his brother Shawn's fatal shooting, seven ghosts who knew Shawn board the elevator and reveal truths Will needs to know.
The Immortalists
This novel switches between brothers' and sisters' perspectives, offering a rich exploration of family dynamics.
Speak
212 pages
The groundbreaking National Book Award Finalist and Michael L. Printz Honor Book with more than 3.5 million copies sold, Speak is a bestselling modern classic about consent, healing, and finding your voice. "Speak up for yourself—we want to know what you have to say." From the first moment of her freshman year at Merryweather High, Melinda knows this is a big lie, part of the nonsense of high school. She is friendless, an outcast, because she busted an end-of-summer party by calling the cops. Now nobody will talk to her, let alone listen to her. As time passes, Melinda becomes increasingly isolated and practically stops talking altogether. Only her art class offers any solace, and it is through her work on an art project that she is finally able to face what really happened at that terrible party: she was raped by an upperclassman, a guy who still attends Merryweather and is still a threat to her. Her healing process has just begun when she has another violent encounter with him. But this time Melinda fights back—and refuses to be silent. From Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award laureate Laurie Halse Anderson comes the extraordinary landmark novel that has spoken to millions of readers. Powerful and utterly unforgettable, Speak has been translated into 35 languages, was the basis for the major motion picture starring Kristen Stewart, and is now a stunning graphic novel adapted by Laurie Halse Anderson herself, with artwork from Eisner-Award winner Emily Carroll. Awards and Accolades for Speak: A New York Times Bestseller A National Book Award Finalist for Young People’s Literature A Michael L. Printz Honor Book An Edgar Allan Poe Award Finalist A Los Angeles Times Book Prize Finalist A TIME Magazine Best YA Book of All Time A Cosmopolitan Magazine Best YA Books Everyone Should Read, Regardless of Age
Juliet Takes a Breath
322 pages
"F***ing outstanding."--Roxane Gay, New York Times bestselling author “Rivera captures both the disappointments and the possibilities that come with realizing that your life’s solution cannot be figured out by someone else.”—The New York Times Book Review Juliet Milagros Palante is a self-proclaimed closeted Puerto Rican baby dyke from the Bronx. Only, she's not so closeted anymore. Not after coming out to her family the night before flying to Portland, Oregon, to intern with her favorite feminist writer--what's sure to be a life-changing experience. And when Juliet's coming out crashes and burns, she's not sure her mom will ever speak to her again. But Juliet has a plan--sort of. Her internship with legendary author Harlowe Brisbane, the ultimate authority on feminism, women's bodies, and other gay-sounding stuff, is sure to help her figure out this whole "Puerto Rican lesbian" thing. Except Harlowe's white. And not from the Bronx. And she definitely doesn't have all the answers . . . In a summer bursting with queer brown dance parties, a sexy fling with a motorcycling librarian, and intense explorations of race and identity, Juliet learns what it means to come out--to the world, to her family, to herself.
Beauty Queens
472 pages
A hilarious and insightful comedy about pageant girls stranded on an island, highlighting their journey of overcoming differences and embracing diversity.
How to Say Goodbye in Robot
276 pages
After moving to Baltimore and enrolling in a private school, high school senior Beatrice befriends a quiet loner with a troubled family history.
Island of the Blue Dolphins
250 pages
This book tells the gripping story of a young girl who survives alone on a deserted island, showcasing her resilience against the elements.
The Outsiders
164 pages
The Socs's idea of having a good time is beating up greasers like Ponyboy. Ponyboy knows what to expect and knows he can count on his brothers and friends - until the night someone takes things too far. A ground-breaking, timeless story from a brilliant writer.
We Are Okay
257 pages
Winner of the 2018 Michael L. Printz Award • An achingly beautiful novel about grief and the enduring power of friendship. “Short, poetic and gorgeously written.” —The New York Times Book Review “A beautiful, devastating piece of art." —Bookpage You go through life thinking there’s so much you need. . . . Until you leave with only your phone, your wallet, and a picture of your mother. Marin hasn’t spoken to anyone from her old life since the day she left everything behind. No one knows the truth about those final weeks. Not even her best friend Mabel. But even thousands of miles away from the California coast, at college in New York, Marin still feels the pull of the life and tragedy she’s tried to outrun. Now, months later, alone in an emptied dorm for winter break, Marin waits. Mabel is coming to visit and Marin will be forced to face everything that’s been left unsaid and finally confront the loneliness that has made a home in her heart. An intimate whisper that packs an indelible punch, We Are Okay is Nina LaCour at her finest. This gorgeously crafted and achingly honest portrayal of grief will leave you urgent to reach across any distance to reconnect with the people you love. Praise for We Are Okay “Nina LaCour treats her emotions so beautifully and with such empathy.” —Bustle ★ “Exquisite.” —Kirkus ★ “LaCour paints a captivating depiction of loss, bewilderment, and emotional paralysis . . . raw and beautiful.” —Booklist ★ “Beautifully crafted . . . . A quietly moving, potent novel.” —SLJ ★ “A moving portrait of a girl struggling to rebound after everything she’s known has been thrown into disarray.” —Publishers Weekly ★"Bittersweet and hopeful . . . poetic and skillfully crafted." —Shelf Awareness “So lonely and beautiful that I could hardly breathe. This is a perfect book.” —Stephanie Perkins, bestselling author of Anna and the French Kiss “As beautiful as the best memories, as sad as the best songs, as hopeful as your best dreams.” —Siobhan Vivian, bestselling author of The Last Boy and Girl in the World “You can feel every peak and valley of Marin’s emotional journey on your skin, in your gut. Beautifully written, heartfelt, and deeply real.” —Adi Alsaid, author of Never Always Sometimes and Let’s Get Lost
Stargirl
210 pages
The protagonist really empowered me a lot, making it a must-read for anyone looking for inspiration.
Turtles All the Way Down
251 pages
This book has some romance, but it's really not the focus, making it a unique read for those who prefer deeper themes.
Monday's Not Coming
351 pages
"Jackson’s characters and their heart-wrenching story linger long after the final page, urging readers to advocate for those who are disenfranchised and forgotten by society and the system." (Publishers Weekly, "An Anti-Racist Children's and YA Reading List") From the critically acclaimed author of Allegedly, Tiffany D. Jackson, comes a gripping novel about the mystery of one teenage girl’s disappearance and the traumatic effects of the truth. Monday Charles is missing, and only Claudia seems to notice. Claudia and Monday have always been inseparable—more sisters than friends. So when Monday doesn’t turn up for the first day of school, Claudia’s worried. When she doesn’t show for the second day, or second week, Claudia knows that something is wrong. Monday wouldn’t just leave her to endure tests and bullies alone. Not after last year’s rumors and not with her grades on the line. Now Claudia needs her best—and only—friend more than ever. But Monday’s mother refuses to give Claudia a straight answer, and Monday’s sister April is even less help. As Claudia digs deeper into her friend’s disappearance, she discovers that no one seems to remember the last time they saw Monday. How can a teenage girl just vanish without anyone noticing that she’s gone?
The Female of the Species
190 pages
Edgar Award-winning author Mindy McGinnis delivers a riveting contemporary YA novel that examines rape culture through alternating perspectives. A stunning, unforgettable page-turner. Alex Craft knows how to kill someone. And she doesn’t feel bad about it. Three years ago, when her older sister, Anna, was murdered and the killer walked free, Alex uncaged the language she knows best—the language of violence. While her own crime goes unpunished, Alex knows she can’t be trusted among other people. Not with Jack, the star athlete who wants to really know her but still feels guilty over the role he played the night Anna’s body was discovered. And not with Peekay, the preacher’s kid with a defiant streak who befriends Alex while they volunteer at an animal shelter. Not anyone. As their senior year unfolds, Alex’s darker nature breaks out, setting these three teens on a collision course that will change their lives forever. 2017 Tayshas List Selection * YALSA Top 10 Best YA Fiction of 2017 * School Libray Journal Best of 2016 * Junior Library Guild Selection * The Globe and Mail Best Books of 2016 * Bustle’s Best Young Adult Books of 2016 * Mashable’s 8 Best YA Books of 2016 * Seventeen's 10 Best YA Books of 2016 * CCBC Choices 2017 * 2018-2019 Louisiana Readers' Choice Award Nominee * 2019 & 2020 Choose to Read Ohio Booklist
Tithe
272 pages
Tithe is a captivating read for those looking for a darker fairy tale, featuring a female protagonist exploring the fairy world from her childhood, making it perfect for readers aged 12 and up.
Valiant
253 pages
Valiant continues the enchanting journey into the fairy realm with a strong female lead, appealing to anyone who enjoys a blend of fantasy and darker themes.
Dragon Pearl
319 pages
This space adventure is a captivating blend of Korean lore and culture, featuring a brave girl who stows away on a military ship to uncover the truth about her brother's disappearance. With her charm and shapeshifting magic, she encounters magical creatures, making it a thrilling read!
