Over the years, the best books for teens have evolved significantly. What used to be a limited selection of cliché romances and simplistic plots is now a genre rich with diverse characters and unique points of view. Whether you’re looking to escape into a dystopian universe or take a familiar trip down the halls of a typical high school, you can do it all just by cracking open a teen novel.

The best books for teens feature a wide range of themes, subgenres, and subject matters. If you’re shopping for a gift for a teen you know or hope to surprise your own child with a new book, you’re sure to find the perfect read right here in this guide. From thrillers to classic coming-of-age novels, there’s something for every young adult in this list of the best books for teens.

Giving your teen the gift of a good book is a surefire way to enrich their mind and encourage them to see the world differently. By browsing these top picks, you’re already taking the first step toward instilling a lifelong love of reading in your teen.

Editors choice

1. The Divergent Series

9.15 / 10
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If your teen is a fan of the dystopian genre, “Divergent” by Veronica Roth is the best book for teens to give to your child. This novel is the first book in Veronica Roth's number-one New York Times bestselling Divergent series. It has seen such great success that it’s even been made into a major motion picture starring Shailene Woodley, Theo James, and Kate Winslet.

“Divergent” is set in a futuristic version of Chicago that is divided into five factions: Abnegation (the selfless), Candor (the honest), Erudite (the intelligent), Amity (the peaceful), and Dauntless (the brave). Beatrice Prior, who originally comes from Abnegation, must choose between staying in her faction or switching factions and leaving her family behind. In addition to having this weighty decision on her shoulders, Beatrice is forced to keep a dangerous secret to herself, or else she could risk tearing her entire community apart.

This poignant story of courage, love, and sacrifice has spoken to both teens and adults on numerous levels. However, the premise is especially relevant to young adults, who must face many difficult choices about their future like Beatrice did. One of the main features of this novel that has contributed to its widespread success is its appeal to fans of romance, science fiction, and everything in between. Readers of all types will be captivated by the powerful voice of the protagonist and the fast-paced, gripping narrative.

While reading this book for teens, some young people may find that certain aspects of Roth’s dystopian society come across as unrealistic. Overall, though, “Divergent” continues to hold a special place in the world of YA literature thanks to its action-packed plot and well-developed characters.

Key Features
  • The first book in Veronica Roth's #1 New York Times bestselling Divergent series
  • Now a major motion picture starring Shailene Woodley, Theo James, & Kate Winslet
  • A dystopian novel set in a futuristic version of Chicago
  • Beatrice Prior must choose between staying in her faction or switching factions & leaving her family behind
  • Beatrice is also forced to keep a dangerous secret to herself, or else she could risk tearing her community apart
  • A story of courage, love, & sacrifice that has resonated with teens & adults alike
Specifications
  • Brand: Veronica Roth
  • Heart Rate Monitor: 13 and up
  • Color Screen: 576
  • Notification Support: Katherine Tegen Books
Pros
  • Fast-paced & gripping
  • Relevant to young adults who face difficult choices about their future
  • Strong female lead
  • Great for fans of science fiction & romance
Cons
  • Some aspects of dystopian society are unrealistic
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The Divergent Series
Premium pick

1. One of Us Is Lying

8.50 / 10
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“Pretty Little Liars” meets “The Breakfast Club” in this bestselling novel by Karen M. McManus. As soon as your child opens up this book for teens, they’ll devour it within hours. Packed with just the right amount of action and suspense, “One of Us Is Lying” contains everything that a young reader wants in a thriller.

In this gripping murder mystery, five strangers walk into detention, but only four of them walk out alive. This group of students consists of Bronwyn, the brain; Addy, the beauty; Nate, the criminal; Cooper, the athlete; and Simon, the outcast. Simon is found dead before the end of detention, leaving the rest of the school to wonder who killed him. Although investigators know the death wasn't an accident, no one knows who caused it — yet.

The quest to unveil the murderer raises the question of how far you would go to protect your secrets. This book for teens is packed with enough unexpected twists and turns to engage the reader's interest throughout the entire story. Additionally, the novel is fast-paced and filled with mystery, making for the perfect beach read that’ll have teens itching to see who the criminal is.

A potential drawback of this book for teens concerns the characters. Some readers may find that the characters in this novel are a bit shallow and stereotypical in some ways. All things considered, though, “One of Us Is Lying” is the perfect page-turner that your teen reader needs to add to their bookshelf right away.

Key Features
  • Pretty Little Liars meets The Breakfast Club in this bestselling novel
  • In this gripping murder mystery, five strangers walk into detention & only four walk out alive
  • The group of strangers includes Bronwyn, the brain; Addy, the beauty; Nate, the criminal; Cooper, the athlete; and Simon, the outcast
  • Simon is dead before the end of detention, leaving the rest of the school to wonder who killed him
  • Investigators know the death wasn't an accident, but no one knows who caused it
  • The quest to unveil the murderer raises the question of how far you would go to protect your secrets
Specifications
  • Brand: Karen M. McManus
  • Heart Rate Monitor: 14 and up
  • Color Screen: 416
  • Notification Support: Delacorte Press
Pros
  • Fast-paced & packed with suspense
  • Perfect beach read
  • Unexpected twists & turns engage the reader's interest
Cons
  • Characters are a bit shallow & stereotypical
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One of Us Is Lying
Best value

1. The Outsiders

9.70 / 10
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Ever since its original publication in 1967, “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton has been recognized as an iconic classic. This heroic story of friendship and belonging is an international bestseller as well as the inspiration behind an award-winning movie, solidifying its place as a timeless gem in young adult literature.

The story centers on Ponyboy, the protagonist who is considered an outcast at school. Throughout the novel, Ponyboy struggles to fit in while facing the Socs, a vicious gang of rich kids that torments outsiders like Ponyboy. Ponyboy tries to rely on his friends and brothers to get him through high school until things go too far one night.

This classic book for teens has played a major role in building the foundation for today's young adult genre. One of the first successful YA books ever published, “The Outsiders” is a coming-of-age story packed with drama and laced with emotions that every teen can relate to. The book fearlessly delves into real issues that young people face every day, and it features a cast of well-developed characters that all teens can connect to. Not only is this novel still extremely relevant in today's society, but it also serves as a source of inspiration for teens who are struggling to find their place in the world.

In certain parts of this book for teens, some readers may find the plot to be a bit tedious and slow-paced. However, there’s no doubt that “The Outsiders” remains a favorite for countless young readers, thanks to its relatable, insightful story and realistic characters.

Key Features
  • This heroic story of friendship & belonging has been an iconic classic for over 50 years
  • An international bestseller & inspiration behind the award-winning movie
  • Ponyboy struggles to fit in while facing the Socs, a vicious gang of rich kids that torments outcasts like Ponyboy
  • Ponyboy tries to rely on his friends & brothers to get him through high school, until things go too far one night
  • This timeless novel helped build the foundation for today's YA genre
  • A coming-of-age story packed with drama & laced with emotions that teens everywhere can relate to
Specifications
  • Brand: S.E. Hinton
  • Heart Rate Monitor: 12 and up
  • Color Screen: 224
  • Notification Support: Speak
Pros
  • Well-developed characters that teens connect to
  • Inspiring for teens who struggle to fit in
  • Delves into real issues that young people face every day
  • Still extremely relevant in today's society
Cons
  • A bit tedious/slow-paced
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The Outsiders

No matter what type of book your teen prefers, he or she is sure to fall in love with “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas. This influential book for teens is a number one New York Times bestseller, a Printz Honor Book, and a Coretta Scott King Honor Book. With its powerful themes of racism, police brutality, and social change, “The Hate U Give” stays with readers long after they read the last page.

After witnessing the fatal shooting of her friend Khalil, 16-year-old Starr Carter grapples with the trauma and grief of such a massive tragedy. Khalil's death soon becomes a national headline, leading to protests and civil unrest in Starr's community. Starr is the only person who knows the truth about what really happened on the night of Khalil’s death, but she has to decide whether speaking up is worth the risk.

While the topic of this book is a bit heavy, it is told in an engaging and thought-provoking manner that helps inspire teens to forge change in their own lives. This book for teens also illuminates many important issues that young people in black communities face every day. Not only will your child be drawn in by Starr’s compelling voice and story, but they will also walk away from “The Hate U Give” with a much deeper understanding of the society they live in.

Some readers may find that this book for teens has a bit of a cliché and predictable plot, but aside from this, “The Hate U Give” is an extremely powerful and moving novel that leaves a lasting impression on all of its readers. If you’re looking for a story that will help your child see the world from a new perspective, this may be the best book for teens that you need.

Key Features
  • #1 New York Times Bestseller
  • A Printz Honor Book & Coretta Scott King Honor Book
  • After witnessing the fatal shooting of her friend Khalil, 16-year-old Starr Carter grapples with the trauma & grief of the tragedy
  • Khalil's death becomes a national headline, leading to protests & unrest in Starr's community
  • Starr is the only one who knows the truth about what happened, but she has to decide whether speaking up is worth the risk
  • A powerful book about racism, police brutality, & social change
  • Millions of teens have resonated with Starr's voice & her moving story
Specifications
  • Brand: Angie Thomas
  • Heart Rate Monitor: 13 and up
  • Color Screen: 464
  • Notification Support: Balzer + Bray
Pros
  • Educational & thought-provoking
  • Tackles important issues in society
  • Perfect pace for teen readers
  • May inspire teens to forge change in their own lives
Cons
  • Plot is a bit cliché/predictable
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The Hate U Give

As your teen tries to survive their high school years, they’ll appreciate a copy of “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” by Stephen Chbosky. This cult-favorite, coming-of-age story has sold millions of copies all over the world. Its plot and characters have connected with so many young readers that it was even made into a major motion picture starring Logan Lerman and Emma Watson.

In this book for teens, 15-year-old Charlie learns to navigate the tumultuous waters of adolescence. He undergoes many trials and tribulations along the way, including the challenge of fitting in at school, something countless teens can relate to. This story also explores many other relatable themes such as friendship, dating, and family drama. The artful incorporation of these themes makes this book a modern classic that beautifully illustrates the growing pains of young adulthood.

A key aspect of this book for teens that resonates with readers is its poignant and honest depiction of high school struggles. It speaks to teens' experiences on a level that not many other YA books can accomplish. Additionally, teens will appreciate Charlie’s powerful, distinctive voice, which propels the entire story forward. Above all, “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” helps young people get through high school, friendship, and love while being reminded that they’re not alone.

While this is a beautifully written and profound book for teens, the author’s writing style may not be for everyone. It’s also worth noting that the story may be too dark for some young readers. However, for teens 15 and up, this novel is undoubtedly one of the best books for teens who are still trying to discover who they are and what they want to be.

Key Features
  • A cult-favorite, coming-of-age story with millions of copies sold
  • Also a major motion picture starring Logan Lerman & Emma Watson
  • 15-year-old Charlie learns to navigate the tumultuous waters of adolescence
  • Explores relatable themes such as friendship, dating, family drama, & fitting in
  • Poignant & honest depiction of high school struggles
  • A modern classic that beautifully illustrates the trials & tribulations of young adulthood
Specifications
  • Brand: Stephen Chbosky
  • Heart Rate Monitor: 15 and up
  • Color Screen: 224
  • Notification Support: MTV Books
Pros
  • Speaks to teens' experiences
  • Helps young people get through high school, friendship, & love
  • Protagonist has a powerful, distinctive voice
Cons
  • May be too dark for some young readers
  • Writing style isn't for everyone
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The Perks of Being a Wallflower

“If I Stay” by Gayle Forman is a powerful, beautifully written book for teens about the choices we make and what it means to be alive. This critically acclaimed, bestselling novel has captured the hearts of millions of teen readers, leading it to be made into a major motion picture.

After undergoing a tragic accident, 17-year-old Mia enters a deep coma. While she has no memory of what happened on the night of the accident, she is able to slowly piece together various memories from her past. As she gradually reflects on her life thus far, she begins to realize that she must make the hardest decision that she’s ever had to make. It’s a decision that will not only impact her own life, but also the lives of everyone around her.

“If I Stay” is a poignant novel filled with important life lessons and relatable struggles that stay with teens long after the last page. This heartwrenching story has the power to change the way young readers look at life, love, and family. In addition, the author’s ability to tackle complex issues in a relatable way helps encourage teens to find meaning in their own lives.

Young adults who pick up a copy of this book for teens will easily form a connection with the authentic, genuine cast of characters. When coupled with this novel’s vivid and beautiful prose, it’s easy to see why “If I Stay” achieved such great success in the YA genre.

Because this book for teens is on the shorter side, some readers may be left wanting more after finishing the story. Overall, though, this book is sure to hold a special place on your teen’s bookshelf, where they’ll be able to cherish it for years.

Key Features
  • This critically acclaimed, bestselling novel has captured the hearts of millions of teen readers
  • After undergoing a tragic accident, 17-year-old Mia enters a coma with no memory of what happened
  • Mia struggles to piece together her memories & make the hardest decision of her life
  • This heartwrenching story will change the way you look at life, love, & family
  • A poignant novel filled with important life lessons & relatable struggles that will stay with teens long after the last page
  • Now a major motion picture starring Chloe Grace Moretz
Specifications
  • Brand: Gayle Forman
  • Heart Rate Monitor: 14 and up
  • Color Screen: 320
  • Notification Support: Speak
Pros
  • Helps teens find meaning in life
  • Tackles complex issues in a relatable way
  • Characters are authentic & genuine
  • Vivid & beautiful prose
Cons
  • Shorter than expected; readers may be left wanting more
  • Contains some clichés/stereotypes
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A number-one New York Times Bestseller, “Eleanor & Park” by Rainbow Rowell has been a teen favorite ever since it was published in 2012. With its classic themes of young love, loss, and teen struggles such as bullying, this book for teens has truly made a mark on the young adult genre.

Set in 1986, this teen favorite chronicles the journey of two star-crossed misfits, Eleanor and Park. Throughout the novel, Rowell tells the story of their whirlwind romance and all the highs and lows that go along with it. Because first love is such a pertinent theme for young readers, this book for teens is sure to speak to numerous teenage readers on many different levels. Its classic coming-of-age plot contains everything a young reader wants in the best book for teens.

“Eleanor & Park” is a poignant reflection on first love and how powerful it can be. Its characters have a lot of depth and are well developed, leading readers to form a strong connection with them. In addition to this. the author doesn’t shy away from tackling important issues like bullying and neglect in this book for teens. Young adults will appreciate the authenticity of this story, as well as the way the characters’ romance unfolds naturally and genuinely.

Unfortunately, not all readers may be satisfied with the way this story wraps up. Aside from this, “Eleanor & Park” proves to be a relatable and brilliantly crafted novel that holds a special place in the hearts of countless teens.

Key Features
  • #1 New York Times Bestseller
  • Set in 1986, this teen favorite features two star-crossed misfits, Eleanor & Park
  • This story chronicles their whirlwind romance & all the highs & lows that go along with it
  • A poignant reflection on first love & how powerful it can be
  • Coming-of-age story that resonates with teens on many different levels
Specifications
  • Brand: Rainbow Rowell
  • Heart Rate Monitor: 14 and up
  • Color Screen: 336
  • Notification Support: St. Martin's Griffin
Pros
  • Characters have a lot of depth
  • Tackles important issues like bullying & neglect
  • Romance unfolds naturally & authentically
  • Offers perspective from both characters
Cons
  • Some readers may be unsatisfied with the ending
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Eleanor & Park

This winning novel by Nicola Yoon is a number one New York Times bestseller, a National Book Award finalist, and a major motion picture starring Yara Shahidi and Charles Melton. No matter what type of book your teen prefers to read, they’ll undoubtedly be drawn in by the captivating love story of “The Sun Is Also a Star.”

This story focuses on two teen characters, Natasha and Daniel. Natasha, a girl of science and facts, is caught off guard when she meets Daniel on a city street and falls hard for him. With her family about to be deported to Jamaica, Natasha grapples with her newfound feelings for Daniel. Meanwhile, Daniel is a model student and the perfect son, but something inside him changes when he sets his eyes on Natasha. Soon enough, he comes to realize that he can’t ignore this transformation inside of him.

In this moving love story, both Natasha and Daniel have to decide whether the possibility of true love is worth believing in. The plot is gripping and exhilarating, and it’ll have readers rooting for these two lovers every step of the way. With its diverse cast of characters and important commentary on race, ethnicity, and heritage, this book for teens speaks to every kind of young adult. Teens will find themselves inspired by the themes of hope, destiny, and belonging that are artfully incorporated into this novel.

To some readers, this book for teens may have a bit of a predictable plot. Some teens may also feel that the story lacks the satisfying ending that they hoped for. Overall, though, “The Sun Is Also a Star” keeps readers enthralled from page one all the way to the end with its classic love story and lovable characters.

Key Features
  • #1 New York Times bestseller & National Book Award finalist
  • Now a major motion picture starring Yara Shahidi & Charles Melton
  • Natasha, a girl of science & facts, is caught off guard when she meets Daniel on a city street & falls hard for him
  • With her family about to be deported to Jamaica, Natasha grapples with her newfound feelings for Daniel
  • Daniel is a model student & the perfect son, but something inside him changes when he sets his eyes on Natasha
  • In this moving love story, Natasha & Daniel have to decide whether the possibility of true love is worth believing in
  • An exhilarating story that will have readers rooting for these two lovers every step of the way
  • Explores the themes of hope, destiny, & heartbreak with fresh & lyrical prose
Specifications
  • Brand: Nicola Yoon
  • Heart Rate Monitor: 12 and up
  • Color Screen: 384
  • Notification Support: Ember
Pros
  • Diverse cast of characters
  • Includes important commentary on race, ethnicity, & heritage
  • Hopeful & inspiring story for teens
  • Writing flows smoothly
Cons
  • Ending may be unsatisfying for some readers
  • A bit predictable
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The Sun Is Also a Star

It’s hard not to include “The Fault in Our Stars” in a list of the best books for teens. With millions of copies sold worldwide, this modern classic has captured the hearts of countless teenagers around the world. Not only has this John Green favorite inspired a major motion picture, but it’s also been named a number one bestseller by the New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and USA Today.

In this novel, 16-year-old Hazel is battling terminal cancer when she meets Augustus in a support group. The book chronicles the dizzying ups and downs that the two teens experience over the course of their budding relationship, which is a journey that’s sure to speak to teens everywhere. “The Fault in Our Stars” is a raw and emotional story that explores what it means to be alive and in love, all while incorporating essential themes for teen readers, such as love, loss, and finding meaning in life.

There’s more than enough to love about this timeless book for teens. The characters are both relatable and likable, and they’re sure to remind teen readers of friends they know in real life. Additionally, John Green artfully raises insightful philosophical questions throughout the book to get young readers thinking. At the same time, there’s just enough humor interlaced in the prose to keep teens entertained from beginning to end.

Because “The Fault in Our Stars” has a lot of philosophy-heavy dialogue, it, unfortunately, may not resonate with some teen readers. However, this extremely profound and beautifully written book for teens still deserves a special place on your child’s bookshelf.

Key Features
  • Millions of copies sold worldwide
  • #1 New York Times, Wall Street Journal, & USA Today bestseller
  • Now a major motion picture
  • 16-year-old Hazel is battling terminal cancer when she meets Augustus in a support group
  • This raw & emotional story explores what it means to be alive & in love
  • Incorporates essential themes for teen readers, such as love, loss, & finding meaning in life
Specifications
  • Brand: John Green
  • Heart Rate Monitor: 14 and up
  • Color Screen: 352
  • Notification Support: Penguin Books
Pros
  • Relatable, likeable characters
  • Raises insightful philosophical questions
  • Incorporates the right amount of humor
  • Vivid & engrossing prose
Cons
  • Philosophy-heavy dialogue may not resonate with some teens
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The Fault in Our Stars

If your teen is a fan of Gayle Forman's “If I Stay” or Nicola Yoon's “Everything, Everything,” they won’t be able to put down “Before I Fall” by Lauren Oliver. This special enhanced edition of the New York Times bestseller includes 2 brand-new stories set in the world of “Before I Fall,” an essay by the author, and extra behind-the-scenes content that teens will love.

For Samantha Kingston, one of the most popular students at her Connecticut high school, life is everything she could ever ask for. However, after she dies in a terrible accident one night, she wakes up the next morning and relives the entire day all over again. Samantha lives the last day of her life 7 times in a row and becomes trapped in a vicious cycle that she can't escape. Slowly, she begins to realize that she has the power to change fate with even the simplest choices — and it might just be those choices that finally set her free.

This book for teens raises thought-provoking questions about love, death, and how our choices can affect others in unexpected ways. Teens will appreciate the profound and complex themes that are woven into the plot, and they may even be encouraged to reflect on their choices and their impact on the world. This beautifully written novel is also filled with vivid and engaging prose that keeps readers engrossed while recognizing the value of their own lives.

Due to the way the plot is set up with Samantha reliving the same day over and over again, the story may become a little repetitive over time. Some readers may also note that the plot develops rather slowly. However, once the story begins to pick up, your teen won’t be able to stop turning the pages of this captivating novel.

Key Features
  • Perfect for fans of Gayle Forman's If I Stay and Nicola Yoon's Everything, Everything
  • This special enhanced edition includes 2 brand-new stories set in the world of Before I Fall, an essay by the author, & extra behind-the-scenes content
  • After Samantha dies in a terrible accident one night, she wakes up the next morning & relives the entire day all over again
  • Samantha lives the last day of her life 7 times & becomes trapped in a vicious cycle that she can't escape
  • Slowly, she begins to realize that she has the power to change fate with even the simplest choices
  • A New York Times bestseller that raises thought-provoking questions about love, death, & how our choices can affect others in shocking ways
Specifications
  • Brand: Lauren Oliver
  • Heart Rate Monitor: 15 and up
  • Color Screen: 544
  • Notification Support: HarperCollins
Pros
  • Encourages teens to reflect on their choices & their impact on the world
  • Profound & complex themes that young people can relate to
  • Vivid & engaging prose
  • Helps readers recognize the value of life
Cons
  • Becomes a little repetitive
  • Plot develops slowly
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Before I Fall

If you have a teenage daughter or son, you know that they’re going through an important transitional period in their lives. While they aren’t young children anymore, they haven’t yet reached adulthood, either. With this period of change comes a good amount of stress and confusion that may be weighing on your child’s shoulders. It isn’t uncommon for teens to struggle with heightened depression and anxiety along with the added pressures of excelling in school and maintaining a social life.

Considering everything the average teen deals with on a daily basis, it’s more important than ever for them to have a healthy outlet that they can turn to during difficult times. Reading the best books for teens is the perfect way for young adults to unwind and escape to a different world. No matter what type of genre they prefer, the right novel can do wonders for their happiness and overall well-being — and make a great gift.

The Benefits of Reading for Teens

For years, scientists and psychologists have touted the numerous benefits of reading in young people. Besides the obvious advantages of an expanded vocabulary and stronger writing skills, reading also has the power to help teenagers approach the problems in their lives in smarter ways. The simple act of following a character’s journey and stepping into their shoes allows teens to gain a new perspective on life. This ultimately provides them with the tools they need to overcome life’s challenges and become better critical thinkers.

Additionally, the best books for teens have a meaningful effect on your teen’s mental health. Reading has been shown to alleviate depression, anxiety, and stress in powerful ways. When your child is immersed in a different world, they are able to escape their own troubles for a while. However, reading isn’t only a temporary reprieve from difficulty. After spending time with the best books for teens, your child will step away from the pages having learned something valuable that will stay with them for a long time.

Overall, reading helps mold your teen into a more well-rounded person. With such a wide selection of genres and topics to choose from, finding the best books for teens to give to your child is easier than ever. Whether your teen is into fantasy or romance, there’s a book for teens out there that perfectly suits their tastes. No matter which type of story you ultimately choose, surprising your teen with a new book is a gift that they’ll cherish for years to come.

Resources— Psychology Today, Real Simple, FamilyEducation