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Best Teen Books

April 2025

Wintergirls

Lia’s world shattered when her best friend Cassie died. Now, haunted by Cassie’s ghost and battling her own demons, Lia struggles with anorexia and self-harm. Anderson’s raw, poetic prose captures the aching emptiness and desperate hunger of a girl caught between life and death. As Lia spirals deeper into her illness, readers are drawn into her fractured mind, feeling every painful step of her journey. A haunting, unflinching look at the devastating effects of eating disorders.

Speak

In this raw and unflinching memoir, Laurie Halse Anderson bares her soul, recounting her journey from a traumatized teen to an empowered advocate. With lyrical prose and searing honesty, she explores the impact of sexual assault, the power of speaking out, and the healing found in writing. Anderson’s voice resonates with authenticity, offering hope and solidarity to survivors while challenging society’s silence. A testament to resilience, “Speak” is a vital read that will leave you both shaken and inspired.

Turtles All the Way Down

Sixteen-year-old Aza Holmes grapples with anxiety and obsessive thoughts while navigating the murky waters of friendship, love, and self-discovery. When a local billionaire disappears, Aza and her best friend Daisy embark on a quest to solve the mystery, leading Aza to reconnect with her childhood crush. Green’s poignant exploration of mental illness is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, offering a raw glimpse into the mind of a teenager struggling to find her place in a world that often feels overwhelming.

Will Grayson, Will Grayson

Two teens named Will Grayson collide in an unexpected encounter that changes both their lives. One, depressed and struggling with his sexuality, finds solace in online chats. The other, more outgoing, grapples with friendship and loyalty. Their paths intertwine through Tiny Cooper, a larger-than-life gay football player staging a musical. With humor and heart, this collaborative novel explores identity, love, and the messy beauty of human connections.

13 Reasons Why

Clay Jensen’s world shatters when he receives a box of cassette tapes from Hannah Baker, his crush who recently committed suicide. Each tape reveals a reason why she chose to end her life, and Clay is one of them. As he listens, he’s drawn into Hannah’s pain and struggles, uncovering dark secrets and confronting his own role in her story. This haunting, emotionally charged novel explores the ripple effects of our actions and the weight of unspoken words.

The Trials of Apollo: The Burning Maze

Lester Papadopoulos, once the mighty Apollo, continues his mortal journey in this thrilling third installment. Trapped in the blazing Labyrinth, he faces his most harrowing quest yet. With loyal friends Meg and Grover by his side, Lester must confront a ruthless Roman emperor and his own fading divinity. Riordan’s signature wit shines through the danger, keeping readers on edge. I found myself laughing one moment and holding my breath the next. A rollercoaster of mythology and heart-pounding adventure awaits in this can’t-put-down page-turner.

The Heroes of Olympus: The Blood of Olympus

Though the journey has been perilous, Percy, Annabeth, and their demigod friends have finally reached the ancient lands. But the real battle is just beginning. As Gaea, the earth mother, stirs from her slumber, the seven heroes must unite Greek and Roman demigods to prevent her awakening. With old enemies lurking and new prophecies unfolding, every decision could mean life or death. Rick Riordan’s epic conclusion to The Heroes of Olympus series will leave readers breathless, as friendships are tested, sacrifices are made, and the fate of the world hangs in the balance.

The Heroes of Olympus: The Mark of Athena

Annabeth’s heart raced as the Argo II descended towards New Rome. After months apart, she’d finally reunite with Percy—if he even remembered her. But a quest awaited, one that would test their bond and the fragile peace between Greek and Roman demigods. As ancient rivalries resurface and a primordial evil stirs, Annabeth must follow the Mark of Athena alone, facing her deepest fears to save those she loves. Rick Riordan weaves a thrilling adventure filled with humor, heart, and heroism that will keep you turning pages late into the night.

The Heroes of Olympus: The Son of Neptune

Percy Jackson wakes up with no memory, thrust into a world of Roman demigods. As he struggles to regain his identity, he’s swept into a dangerous quest with new friends Hazel and Frank. Together, they face mythical monsters and ancient prophecies, racing against time to save Camp Jupiter from destruction. Riordan’s masterful blend of humor, action, and heart shines as Percy grapples with his forgotten past and an uncertain future. A thrilling adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

The Fever Code

Delving into the origins of the Maze, Dashner’s prequel to The Maze Runner series unravels the mysteries that have haunted readers. Through Thomas’s eyes, we witness the birth of WICKED and the sinister experiments that shaped the Gladers’ world. As friendships form and loyalties are tested, the line between truth and deception blurs. With each page, I found myself questioning everything I thought I knew about the series. A gripping, emotional rollercoaster that left me breathless and craving more.