Best Young Adult Books April 2025

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 Heroes of Olympus: The Lost Hero

Jason wakes up on a bus with no memory, thrust into a world of demigods and monsters. Alongside Piper and Leo, he embarks on a perilous quest to rescue Hera and uncover his past. As they face mythical dangers, Jason grapples with his identity and newfound powers. Riordan weaves Greek and Roman mythology seamlessly, creating a thrilling adventure that had me on the edge of my seat. The characters’ banter and growth kept me invested throughout this rollercoaster ride of a novel.

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Last Olympian

Percy Jackson’s epic journey reaches its thrilling climax in “The Last Olympian.” As Kronos’s army descends upon New York City, Percy and his demigod friends face their ultimate test. With Olympus hanging in the balance, Percy must confront his destiny and make heart-wrenching choices. Riordan’s masterful blend of Greek mythology and modern-day adventure kept me on the edge of my seat. The characters’ growth throughout the series truly shines here, making for an emotionally satisfying conclusion that left me both exhilarated and a little misty-eyed.

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Battle of the Labyrinth

Percy Jackson’s fourth adventure plunges him into the heart of an ancient maze, where danger lurks at every turn. As he navigates the treacherous Labyrinth, Percy faces his toughest challenges yet, battling mythical monsters and confronting his own fears. With his friends by his side, he races against time to prevent the rise of the Titan lord Kronos. Riordan’s witty narrative and clever twists on Greek mythology make this a thrilling ride that’ll keep you guessing until the very end. I couldn’t put it down!

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Titan’s Curse

Percy’s winter break takes a dangerous turn when his friend Annabeth goes missing. With time running out, he embarks on a perilous quest alongside his loyal companions and the mysterious Hunters of Artemis. As they face mythical monsters and treacherous gods, Percy uncovers a sinister plot that threatens Olympus itself. Riordan’s witty narrative and clever twists on Greek mythology make this a thrilling adventure that kept me up way past my bedtime. It’s amazing how he brings these ancient stories to life in a modern setting.

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Sea of Monsters

Percy’s second summer at Camp Half-Blood is anything but peaceful. The protective tree that guards the camp is dying, and monsters are slipping through its weakened defenses. To save the camp, Percy and his friends embark on a perilous quest to find the Golden Fleece in the treacherous Sea of Monsters. Along the way, they face mythical creatures, unexpected allies, and a prophecy that could change everything. Riordan’s witty narrative and clever twists on Greek mythology make this a thrilling adventure that’ll keep you turning pages late into the night.

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief

Twelve-year-old Percy Jackson’s world turns upside down when he discovers he’s a demigod. Suddenly, Greek mythology comes to life, and he’s thrust into a dangerous quest to prevent a war between the gods. With his newfound powers and loyal friends, Percy faces monsters, betrayal, and his own destiny. Riordan’s witty narrative and clever modernization of ancient myths create a thrilling adventure that will captivate readers of all ages. This first installment in the series sets the stage for an epic journey of self-discovery and heroism.

Son

In this haunting tale, Lowry explores the depths of a mother’s grief and the power of memory. When Claire’s son vanishes without a trace, she’s left grappling with unanswered questions and a gnawing emptiness. As she sifts through fragments of the past, Claire uncovers long-buried secrets that challenge everything she thought she knew about her family. Lowry’s prose is both tender and unflinching, weaving a story that will linger in readers’ hearts long after the final page.

Messenger

In “Messenger,” Lois Lowry weaves a haunting tale of a young boy’s journey through a world teetering on the edge of darkness. As Village’s only connection to the outside, Matty must confront the sinister changes creeping into his once-idyllic home. With lyrical prose and deep emotional resonance, Lowry explores themes of sacrifice, community, and the power of human connection. This gripping story will linger in your thoughts long after the final page.