Young adult literature is flying off the shelves lately, and it’s not due to a sudden surge in the teen population. Adults who aren’t exactly young are indulging in books written for teen readers. Series like The Hunger Games and the Harry Potter books brought widespread attention to YA books and gave parents the opportunity to enjoy what teens were reading. Whether you have a teen or not, here are five YA books to check out this summer.
Code Name Verity
Author: Elizabeth E. Wein
Age: 14 and up
Price: $11
Since its publication in May, Code Name Verity has received glowing reviews. If you’re looking for an alternative to paranormal romance, this riveting historical drama is for you. Featuring strong female leads and friendship, it’s also a great book to share with your teen daughter. Code Name Verity follows the story of a young spy captured in Nazi-occupied France. She tells her own story to avoid horrific execution.
Divergent
Author: Veronica Roth
Age: 14 and up
Price: $10
Veronica Roth’s dystopian series begins with Divergent. The follow up, Insurgent, was released this summer and has already blown up with rave reviews. Taking place in a broken, futuristic Chicago, this series follows a young girl through the aftermath of a difficult choice she must make when she turns sixteen. Popular with teens and adults, Divergent is a thriller with an element of romance.
The Demon’s Lexicon
Author: Sarah Rees Brennan
Age: 14 and up
Price: $10
If your teen isn’t interested in reading about female protagonists, it may be harder to find popular YA books. The Demon’s Lexicon is the first of a series of books that follow two brothers through a paranormal world of demons and magic. This urban fantasy series has a wide appeal and a buddy-adventure theme reminiscent of the popular television series, Supernatural.
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Graceling
Author: Kristin Cashore
Age: 14 and up
Price: $10
Published a few years ago, Graceling is the introduction to Kristin Cashore’s fascinating world where certain individuals are given a special talent called a Grace. Graced with the ability to fight, Katsa is forced to live as a killer. If you’re looking for a series to get swept away by, Graceling is the way to go. Follow-ups Fire and Bitterblue take you deeper into the unique world crafted by Cashore. Each features a strong female heroine.
Grave Mercy: His Fair Assassin
Author: Robin LaFevers
Age: 14 and up
Price: $11
Following the popular theme of girls who can kick some major butt, Grave Mercy is the first book in a series. Ismae escapes an arranged marriage and becomes an assassin. This romantic adventure mixes careful history with fanciful elements, for a great alternative to fantasy worlds and contemporary romances. Perfect for ages 14 and up, this is one you might need two copies of unless you can put up with sharing with your teen.
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