Best Young Adult Books April 2025

The Bone Season

In a dystopian London, Paige Mahoney navigates a dangerous underworld as a dreamwalker, a rare clairvoyant hunted by the government. When she’s captured and thrust into a hidden city ruled by powerful beings, she discovers her own untapped abilities. As she unravels the city’s secrets, Paige forms unlikely alliances and faces heart-wrenching choices. I couldn’t put it down, staying up late to devour just one more chapter. Shannon’s vivid world-building and complex characters left me craving the next installment in this thrilling series.

The Selection Series

Dive into a world where love and duty collide in this captivating dystopian romance. Thirty-five girls compete for the heart of Prince Maxon, but America Singer’s rebellious spirit sets her apart. As she navigates palace intrigue and her own conflicted feelings, America discovers that the competition is more than just a game. With unexpected twists and heart-wrenching choices, this addictive series will keep you turning pages late into the night. A perfect blend of romance, politics, and self-discovery that’ll leave you craving more.

If I Stay

Mia’s life changes in an instant when a car accident leaves her in a coma. Caught between life and death, she faces an impossible choice. As memories of her past flood back, Mia grapples with the decision to stay or let go. Through her out-of-body experience, she reflects on love, family, and music. Forman’s poignant prose captures the raw emotions of a teenager confronting mortality, making this a heart-wrenching yet ultimately uplifting exploration of what it means to truly live.

Thirteen Reasons Why

Clay Jensen receives a mysterious package containing cassette tapes recorded by Hannah Baker, his crush who recently committed suicide. As he listens, Hannah reveals the thirteen reasons why she decided to end her life, each reason tied to a person at their high school. Clay’s night becomes a haunting journey through Hannah’s pain, forcing him to confront difficult truths about himself and others. Asher’s gripping narrative explores the ripple effects of our actions, the weight of secrets, and the devastating consequences of bullying and indifference.

The Hate U Give

Starr Carter straddles two worlds: her poor, mostly black neighborhood and her wealthy, mostly white prep school. This delicate balance shatters when she witnesses her childhood friend’s fatal shooting by a police officer. Caught between loyalty to her community and the allure of her other life, Starr must find her voice and stand up for what’s right. Thomas’s powerful debut novel tackles racism, police brutality, and the weight of silence with unflinching honesty and raw emotion. It’s a story that will stay with you long after the last page.

The Chronicles of Narnia

Step into a world of magic and wonder with C.S. Lewis’s beloved classic, “The Chronicles of Narnia.” As a child, I was captivated by the talking animals, mythical creatures, and epic battles between good and evil. Lewis’s masterful storytelling weaves Christian allegory with fantasy, creating a rich tapestry that resonates with readers of all ages. From the wardrobe to the lamp-post, every page is filled with enchantment and adventure. It’s a timeless tale that still gives me goosebumps.

Divergent Series

In a world divided by factions, Beatrice Prior must choose her destiny. As she grapples with her identity, she uncovers a dangerous secret that threatens everything she holds dear. Roth’s gripping dystopian tale explores themes of bravery, loyalty, and self-discovery. With heart-pounding action and complex characters, this series kept me up late, turning pages. It’s a thrilling journey that will resonate with anyone who’s ever felt like they don’t quite fit in.

The Twilight Saga

The Hunger Games Series

Suzanne Collins’ gripping dystopian trilogy plunges readers into the brutal world of Panem. Katniss Everdeen’s journey from reluctant tribute to symbol of rebellion captivated me from the first page. Collins’ vivid storytelling and complex characters make the horrors of the Games feel uncomfortably real. I found myself holding my breath during the arena scenes, rooting for Katniss and Peeta’s survival. The series’ exploration of power, media manipulation, and the human cost of war left me pondering long after I finished the last book.

The Trials of Apollo

After being cast down from Olympus, the god Apollo wakes up in a New York City dumpster as a mortal teenage boy. Stripped of his godly powers, he must navigate the modern world and face ancient enemies to regain his place on Mount Olympus. Along the way, he encounters old friends and new allies, learning humility and the true meaning of heroism. Riordan’s witty prose and clever mythological twists make this a thrilling adventure that will captivate readers of all ages.