It’s no secret: children who fall in love with reading at a young age are proven to be more intelligent later on in life, according to this study outlined by the Daily Mail. And though reading is important to the brain’s of young adults everywhere, it can be hard for some kids to get excited about reading in such a tech-centric world.
Fortunately, this list of eight books for young adults should help to give you or your kid a little excitement about reading. The books on this list are classics—but they are far from stuffy as they explore important young adult themes and stories while weaving in absolutely incredible plots. Become a smarter person by picking up one of these today!
Uglies, Scott Westerfield
For years, Tally Youngblood has been looking forward to her 16th birthday. You see, when members of her society turn 16, they undergo a massive body re-build that turns them from an “Ugly” into a “Pretty.” But is being a Pretty really all that it is cracked up to be? The first of a multi-book series, this read is sure to suck you in.
Holes, Louis Sachar
I know, I know, you’ve probably already seen this movie. But the movie doesn’t even come close to the book written by Louis Sachar! Follow Stanley Yelnats as he is sent away to a summer camp for boys for a crime that he did not commit. Only, while there, Stanley learns that the camp is harboring quite the secret. Will it be enough to change the luck of his family for good?
The Outsiders, S.E. Hinton
Ponyboy’s gang is constantly at odds with a rival gang in town. Normally, the spats between the two groups are violent but nothing too intense. Until one day, when a gang conflict results in the death of a rival member, and Ponyboy and his gang must go into hiding. One of the novels that shaped young adult literature, this classic is an absolute must-read.
Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret, Judy Blume
Another classic piece of literature for young adults, this novel by Judy Blume discusses all of the uncomfortable parts of puberty and self-actualization as a young adult in a frank, easy-to-understand manner. Growing up is tough, but this read makes it a little easier for those going through it to understand.
From The Mixed-Up Files Of Ms. Basil E. Frankweiler, E.L. Kongisburg
After Claudia and her brother run away to live in one of New York’s most popular destinations, they find themselves wrapped up in a mystery. And after these two meet the individual behind the mystery, things may never be the same. This is one of my favorite books of all time!
Bridge To Terabithia, Katherine Paterson
Eager to get away from his siblings at home, Jess Aarons becomes fast friends with the new kid down the street: Leslie Burke. The two invent an enchanted kingdom in the woods behind their homes and they use it as an escape from the world...until tragedy strikes.
Beezus and Ramona, Beverly Cleary
Beezus, a ten-year-old girl, often has a hard time getting along with her rambunctious four-year-old sister, Ramona. Follow Beezus (Beatrice) as she learns to navigate life with a younger sister who absolutely drives her crazy. And who knows? They might just get along one day!
The Westing Game, Ellen Waskin
Sam Westing loves games. So when he mysteriously dies one day, it’s only natural that he would make his fortune accessible only by playing one final game. Follow the candidates as they fight to win the game and inherit the fortune. But there’s only one thing...how did Westing die in the first place? Is it possible that he was murdered?
Reading is important to kids of any age— it helps them hone their cognitive skills, become a better communicator, and even a more intelligent person. And at the end of the day, aren’t these some of the most important things in life?
Whether a novice or a frequent reader, the books on this list will please any young adult reader out there. Which one will you read first?
Did we miss anything on this list? Comment below and tell us about your favorite young adult novels.
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