Best Young Adult Books May 2025

The Fault In Our Stars

Hazel Grace Lancaster’s world is forever changed when she meets Augustus Waters at a cancer support group. Their shared love of books and witty banter sparks an instant connection. As they navigate the complexities of living with illness, they embark on an unforgettable journey of love, loss, and self-discovery. Green’s poignant storytelling captures the raw emotions of teenage romance in the face of mortality, leaving readers both heartbroken and inspired by the power of human connection.

The Secret Life of Bees

Lily Owens, a young girl haunted by her mother’s tragic death, flees her abusive father and finds solace with three eccentric beekeeping sisters in 1960s South Carolina. As she unravels the mystery of her mother’s past, Lily discovers the power of female bonds, the healing nature of beekeeping, and her own inner strength. Kidd’s lyrical prose weaves a tale of love, loss, and redemption, exploring themes of racial tension and spiritual awakening against the backdrop of the Civil Rights era. A poignant coming-of-age story that’ll leave you buzzing with emotion.

The Golden Compass

Lyra Belacqua’s world is turned upside down when she stumbles upon a plot involving stolen children and a mysterious substance called Dust. Armed with her alethiometer, a truth-telling device, she embarks on a perilous journey to the frozen North. Along the way, she befriends armored bears, witches, and a brave aeronaut. Pullman’s rich storytelling and complex characters draw you into a world both familiar and fantastical, leaving you pondering the nature of free will and the power of destiny long after the final page.

Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing

Judy Blume’s “Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing” is a hilarious and heartwarming journey through the eyes of nine-year-old Peter Hatcher. Living in New York City with his parents and mischievous little brother Fudge, Peter navigates the ups and downs of family life with wit and exasperation. From Fudge’s antics to Peter’s own struggles, this relatable story captures the essence of sibling rivalry and growing up. I still chuckle remembering Fudge’s turtle-eating incident!

The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood of Great Renown In Nottinghamshire

I’ve always been captivated by the legend of Robin Hood, and Pyle’s retelling brings it to life in a way that’s both nostalgic and thrilling. His vivid descriptions transport you to Sherwood Forest, where you can almost smell the earthy scent of moss and hear the twang of bowstrings. The merry band’s exploits are recounted with a wink and a nod, making even their most daring heists feel like jolly romps. It’s a timeless tale of justice and camaraderie that never fails to lift my spirits.

Mockingjay

Katniss Everdeen, the girl on fire, has survived the Hunger Games twice, but she’s still not safe. With the Capitol and President Snow blaming her for the unrest in the districts, Katniss must become the rebels’ Mockingjay—no matter how uncertain she is about leading the revolution. As the war that will determine the fate of Panem escalates, Katniss must choose between protecting those she loves and her role in the plans to save them all. In this gripping finale, Suzanne Collins takes readers on an unforgettable journey filled with heartbreak, hope, and the brutal reality of war.

Breaking Dawn

As the final chapter in the Twilight saga unfolds, Bella Swan’s journey takes an unexpected turn. Now married to Edward Cullen, she faces the ultimate transformation—becoming a vampire. But her choice brings unforeseen consequences, testing the bonds of family and friendship. With a new threat looming, Bella must embrace her newfound strength to protect those she loves. Meyer’s captivating prose draws readers into a world where love conquers all, even in the face of immortality’s challenges.

A Separate Peace

Set against the backdrop of a New England boarding school during World War II, “A Separate Peace” is a haunting tale of friendship and rivalry. Knowles masterfully weaves a story of two boys, Gene and Finny, whose bond is tested by jealousy and the looming specter of war. As they navigate the complexities of adolescence, a single moment shatters their idyllic world, forcing them to confront the harsh realities of growing up. This poignant coming-of-age novel explores the fragile nature of youth and the lasting impact of our choices.

The Witch of Blackbird Pond

Kit Tyler’s world turns upside down when she leaves sunny Barbados for the cold shores of colonial Connecticut. Raised by her grandfather, she’s unprepared for the stark Puritan lifestyle she encounters. As Kit struggles to fit in, she finds solace in an unlikely friendship with Hannah Tupper, a kind Quaker woman rumored to be a witch. But when a deadly fever sweeps through the town, suspicion falls on Hannah, and Kit must choose between her new life and her true self. A poignant tale of courage and acceptance in a time of fear and prejudice.

Eragon

I stumbled upon “Eragon” during a rainy afternoon at my local bookshop. Paolini’s vivid world-building instantly transported me to Alagaësia, where I found myself captivated by the young farm boy’s journey. The bond between Eragon and Saphira tugged at my heartstrings, reminding me of my own childhood dreams of adventure. With its blend of magic, dragons, and coming-of-age struggles, this book reignited my love for fantasy. A perfect escape for dreamers of all ages.