BookMatcherBest Young Adult Books
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Best Young Adult Books

Coming-of-age stories, first loves, and epic adventures for teens and young-at-heart readers.

The top young adult books

Ranked by editorial weight, reader signal, and what's worth your time right now.

  1. Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli
    1of the list

    Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

    by Becky Albertalli

    Sixteen-year-old and not-so-openly gay Simon Spier prefers to save his drama for the school musical. But when an email falls into the wrong hands, his secret is at risk of being thrust into the spotlight. Now Simon is actually being blackmailed: if he doesn’t play wingman for class clown Martin, his sexual identity will become everyone’s business. Worse, the privacy of Blue, the pen name of the boy he’s been emailing, will be compromised. With some messy dynamics emerging in his once tight-knit group of friends, and his email correspondence with Blue growing more flirtatious every day, Simon’s junior year has suddenly gotten all kinds of complicated. Now, change-averse Simon has to find a way to step out of his comfort zone before he’s pushed out—without alienating his friends, compromising himself, or fumbling a shot at happiness with the most confusing, adorable guy he’s never met.

    LGBTYoung AdultJUVENILE FICTION / Love & Romance
    Buy on Amazon
  2. Don't Let the Forest In by C. G. Drews
    2of the list

    Don't Let the Forest In

    by C. G. Drews

    *Once upon a time, Andrew had cut out his heart and given it to this boy, and he was very sure Thomas had no idea that Andrew would do anything for him.

    HorrorFantasyYoung Adult
    Buy on Amazon

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Frequently asked questions

What are the best young adult books to read?

Our curated list features the top young adult books based on reader reviews, critical acclaim, and editorial picks. Top recommendations include "Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda" by Becky Albertalli.

How do I find young adult books similar to ones I've enjoyed?

Enter any young adult book you love into BookMatcher's Books Like search. We curate similar reads based on themes, writing style, and atmosphere.

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