Best Young Adult Books April 2025

Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Greg Heffley’s hilarious middle school misadventures come to life in this laugh-out-loud journal. From dodging bullies to navigating awkward friendships, Greg’s witty observations and doodles capture the chaos of adolescence. I found myself chuckling at his relatable struggles and cringing at his well-intentioned mishaps. Kinney’s simple illustrations perfectly complement Greg’s snarky voice, making this a quick, entertaining read that’ll resonate with kids and adults alike. It’s no wonder this series became a cultural phenomenon!

The Amber Spyglass

Lyra and Will’s epic journey reaches its thrilling conclusion in “The Amber Spyglass.” Pullman weaves a tale of parallel worlds, dark matter, and the nature of consciousness with breathtaking skill. I was captivated by the complex themes of religion and free will, and found myself emotionally invested in the characters’ fates. The bittersweet ending left me pondering long after I’d turned the final page. A masterful blend of fantasy and philosophy that lingers in the mind.

Little Town on the Prairie

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Looking for Alaska

Miles “Pudge” Halter’s mundane life takes an exhilarating turn when he enrolls at Culver Creek Preparatory School. There, he meets the enigmatic Alaska Young, whose wild spirit and unpredictable nature captivate him instantly. As Pudge navigates friendship, first love, and the complexities of adolescence, he’s drawn into Alaska’s world of mischief and deep philosophical musings. But when tragedy strikes, Pudge must confront the fragility of life and the power of memory. Green’s poignant storytelling left me pondering the meaning of it all long after I turned the final page.

The Chocolate War

Cormier’s haunting masterpiece delves into the dark underbelly of high school politics. When Jerry Renault refuses to participate in Trinity School’s annual chocolate sale, he becomes an unwitting rebel, challenging the corrupt power structure. Through Jerry’s struggle, we witness the brutal consequences of nonconformity and the crushing weight of peer pressure. This raw, unflinching exploration of adolescent cruelty and moral courage will leave you questioning the nature of individuality and the true cost of standing up for what’s right.

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children

Discover a world of mystery and wonder in Ransom Riggs’ “Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children.” As I turned each page, I was drawn deeper into Jacob’s journey, uncovering family secrets and a hidden realm of extraordinary individuals. Riggs’ masterful blend of eerie vintage photographs and captivating prose creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that lingered in my mind long after I finished reading. This isn’t just a book; it’s an experience that will leave you questioning the boundaries between reality and the impossible.

Ramona the Pest

Walk Two Moons

Thirteen-year-old Sal embarks on a cross-country journey with her grandparents, unraveling the mystery of her mother’s disappearance. As she tells the tale of her friend Phoebe, Sal discovers parallels in their lives, grappling with loss and self-discovery. Creech’s lyrical prose weaves humor and heartache, capturing the essence of adolescence. I found myself laughing one moment and tearing up the next, completely absorbed in Sal’s world. A poignant exploration of family, friendship, and the power of storytelling.

Inkspell

Dive back into the enchanting world of Inkheart with Cornelia Funke’s spellbinding sequel, Inkspell. Meggie and her father Mo find themselves drawn into the magical realm they once read about, where fantasy and reality blur. As they navigate this perilous landscape, filled with familiar characters and new dangers, Meggie discovers her own hidden powers. Funke’s vivid prose brings the story to life, making you feel as if you’ve stepped into the pages yourself. A thrilling adventure that will captivate readers of all ages.

Inkheart

Twelve-year-old Meggie’s world turns upside down when she discovers her father’s secret ability to bring characters from books to life. As dark forces from a mysterious novel threaten their family, Meggie must confront her own fears and uncover hidden strengths. Funke’s enchanting tale weaves magic, danger, and the power of storytelling into a spellbinding adventure that will leave readers breathless. I couldn’t put it down, staying up late to finish just one more chapter. A must-read for book lovers of all ages.