Young adult books (YA), are finction books that explore the experiences of young people and are written for a younger audience. They aren’t just for teens as they also resonate with students of all age groups. They often tackle themes of identity, love, mental health, ambition, and resilience, things which are integral in the life of a student.
So, what makes a YA book truly unforgettable? Is it the gripping storyline? The characters that feel like friends? Or the ability to make you laugh and cry in a single chapter? Whatever the magic ingredient is, in this post, I present to you the best young adult that have it all.
Are you a college or university student looking for a break from textbooks and academic stress? If yes, then this post is for you. These young adult books are packed with relatable characters, gripping plots, and life lessons that resonate especially with students.
Whether you’re into dystopian adventures, heartfelt romances, or thought-provoking coming-of-age stories, these top 17 best young adult books offer something for everyone. Here’s why you should add them to your reading list and our top recommendations.
Why Students Should Read Young Adult Books
You might be wondering, “Why should I read young adult books when I have a pile of textbooks waiting for me?” Well, here’s why:
1. They Offer a Mental Escape
School can be stressful, and sometimes, you need to step away from reality. Young Adult books transport you to new worlds—whether it’s a dystopian society, a magical kingdom, or a small town with big secrets. They’re easy to read, engaging, and often take you to imaginative worlds far from the stress of exams and deadlines.
2. They Help You Understand Yourself
Many Young Adult books revolve around self-discovery. They often explore themes like friendship, love, and overcoming life’s challenges—topics that resonate deeply with students navigating adulthood.
3. They Teach Life Lessons in the Best Way
Unlike dry self-help books, Young Adult books teach lessons through engaging stories. They explore mental health, social issues, and personal growth in ways that stick with you.
4. Quick and Enjoyable Reads
With busy schedules, college students need books that are both entertaining and easy to finish. Young adult books are often fast-paced and hard to put down, making them ideal to read just before bed.
Now, let’s get to the best part—the top 17 young adult books every college student should read!
Top 17 Young Adult Books for Students
Here are some must-read young adult books that have captured the hearts of young readers worldwide:
Whether you’re looking for an emotional rollercoaster, a thought-provoking read, or an adventurous escape, these young adult books will leave a lasting impact on you. They explore themes of identity, mental health, love, resilience, and societal issues—all things that resonate deeply with college and university students.
1. To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before – Jenny Han
“You’d rather make up a fantasy version of somebody in your head than be with a real person.”
Lara Jean Covey has always been a romantic at heart, but instead of confessing her crushes, she writes secret love letters to them—letters she never intended to send. But when those letters accidentally get mailed out, her life turns into a whirlwind of awkward encounters, fake-dating schemes, and unexpected romance.
This book is charming, sweet, and full of heart, making it the perfect light read for anyone who loves romantic comedies with a strong family dynamic. Lara Jean’s story isn’t just about love—it’s also about growing up, embracing change, and stepping outside your comfort zone.
Why students should read it:
✔ A lighthearted and fun fake-dating romance
✔ Relatable themes of family, culture, and self-discovery
✔ A perfect stress-reliever with plenty of cute, feel-good moments
💡 Recommended for : Students who love romantic comedies, coming-of-age stories, and quirky, lovable protagonists.
2. The Perks of Being a Wallflower – Stephen Chbosky
“We accept the love we think we deserve.”
This novel is a timeless coming-of-age story that follows Charlie, an introverted and emotionally sensitive high schooler, as he navigates friendship, first love, trauma, and self-acceptance. Told through letters, the book feels deeply personal, as if Charlie is confiding in you.
Why students should read it:
✔ Explores mental health, social anxiety, and emotional growth
✔ Relatable for introverts and deep thinkers
✔ A powerful reflection on friendship, love, and finding your place in the world
💡 Recommended for : Students who feel like outsiders or are struggling with social anxiety and self-acceptance.
3. The Fault in Our Stars – John Green
“Some infinities are bigger than other infinities.”
This heart-wrenching yet beautifully written novel tells the story of Hazel and Gus, two teens who meet at a cancer support group and fall in love. It’s not just a story about illness—it’s a story about living fully, appreciating life, and making the most of every moment.
Why students should read it:
✔ Encourages a fresh perspective on life and mortality
✔ Filled with witty humor, emotional depth, and quotable moments
✔ A love story that feels real, raw, and unforgettable
💡 Recommended for: Those who enjoy poignant, philosophical love stories with characters that feel real.
4. The Summer I Turned Pretty – Jenny Han
“It was the summer everything began. It was the summer I turned pretty.”
For Belly, summer has always been the highlight of her year—lazy days at Cousins Beach, sand between her toes, and endless summer nights with Conrad and Jeremiah, the two brothers she’s known forever. But this year, something is different. She’s growing up, and suddenly, the boys she’s always seen as family start seeing her differently, too.
A story about first love, growing up, and the magic of summer, this book is nostalgic, dreamy, and full of emotion. It captures that bittersweet feeling of change, when childhood friendships turn into something more complicated.
Why college students should read it:
✔ Captures the magic of summer, love, and self-discovery
✔ A light, breezy read
✔ Perfect for anyone who loves romance with a nostalgic feel
💡 Recommended for: Students looking for a relaxing, emotional, and romantic summer read.
5. They Both Die at the End – Adam Silvera
What would you do if you knew today was your last day? This book explores that exact scenario. Mateo and Rufus, two strangers, receive a call from “Death-Cast,” telling them they will die in the next 24 hours. They decide to spend their last day together, forming an intense, unexpected bond.
Why students should read it:
✔ A gripping reminder to live life without regrets
✔ Encourages you to embrace new friendships and take risks
✔ Features strong LGBTQ+ representation
💡 Recommended for : Readers who like books that make them reflect on their own lives and choices.
6. Legend – Marie Lu
A dystopian thriller featuring Day and June, two teens from opposite sides of a divided society. Day is a wanted criminal. June is a prodigy trained by the government. When their paths collide, secrets unravel, and everything they know is questioned.
Why students should read it:
✔ Fast-paced, action-packed, and impossible to put down
✔ Strong female protagonist and strategic thinking
✔ Political and social themes that parallel real-world issues
💡 Recommended for : Fans of The Hunger Games and thrillers with smart, strategic protagonists.
7. The House in the Cerulean Sea – TJ Klune
“A home isn’t always the house we live in. It’s also the people we choose to surround ourselves with.”
Linus Baker lives a dull, structured life, working for a government agency that oversees magical children. But when he’s sent to investigate a remote orphanage filled with extraordinary kids, including a tiny wyvern, a gnome, and the Antichrist, he begins to question everything he thought he knew.
This book is pure joy—a whimsical, heart-warming story about found family, acceptance, and stepping out of your comfort zone. With charming characters, quirky humor, and a slow-burn emotional journey, it’s the ultimate feel-good read.
Why college students should read it:
✔ A gentle, uplifting story with loveable characters
✔ Encourages self-acceptance, kindness, and embracing change
✔ A fantasy novel that feels like a warm hug
💡 Recommended for: Students who love quirky, feel-good fantasy with a deep emotional core.
8. The Hunger Games – Suzanne Collins
“May the odds be ever in your favor.”
This legendary dystopian series follows Katniss Everdeen, a teenager forced into a brutal survival game orchestrated by an oppressive government. It’s not just an action novel—it’s a powerful critique of media, class struggle, and societal control. Katniss lives in the oppressive nation of Panem, where the rich elite control the poor through extreme measures.
Why students should read it:
✔ A gripping and suspenseful survival story
✔ Explores themes of power, resistance, and ethical dilemmas
✔ Features a strong, independent female lead
💡 Recommended for: Students interested in political themes, social justice, and dystopian fiction.
9. Six of Crows – Leigh Bardugo
“When everyone knows you’re a monster, you needn’t waste time doing every monstrous thing.”
Imagine Ocean’s Eleven—but with magic, morally gray characters, and an impossible heist. This novel follows a diverse crew of criminals as they attempt a high-stakes mission. Every character is unique, flawed, and incredibly well-developed. Set in the dark, bustling city of Ketterdam, Six of Crows follows an ensemble of outcasts, criminals, and misfits as they attempt an impossible heist.
Kaz Brekker, a criminal mastermind, is offered a life-changing sum of money to break into an impenetrable fortress. To do this, he assembles a team of six talented individuals—each with their own tragic past and unique abilities. But their mission isn’t just about stealing—it’s about survival, loyalty, and defying the odds.
What makes Six of Crows so engaging is its multi-perspective storytelling, where each character has flaws, depth, and emotional complexity. Themes of trust, trauma, and resilience are woven into an action-packed plot filled with twists, humor, and tension.
Why students should read it:
✔ A diverse and morally complex cast of characters with powerful backstories
✔ Perfect blend of action, strategy, and character depth
✔ Challenges moral ambiguity—what does it truly mean to be good or bad?
✔ Sharp dialogue, intense friendships, and slow-burn romance
💡 Recommended for: Readers who love fantasy with a mix of crime and adventure.
10. The Book Thief – Markus Zusak
“I have hated words and I have loved them, and I hope I have made them right.”
A deeply emotional historical fiction novel, The Book Thief is set in Nazi Germany and uniquely narrated by Death itself, who observes human suffering and beauty from an otherworldly perspective. The story follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who finds solace in books while the world around her is falling apart. As she learns to read, she begins stealing books from Nazi book burnings and sharing them with others, even as war and oppression loom over her.
This novel is not just about war, loss, and survival, but also about the power of words—how they can inspire, manipulate, and heal. Zusak’s poetic writing style, combined with its unique narration, makes this an unforgettable read.
Why students should read it:
✔ A profound reflection on history, humanity, morality, and the impact of war
✔ Explores how language and propaganda shape society
✔ Unique and poetic storytelling
💡 Recommended for: Literature lovers, history buffs, and those who appreciate poetic storytelling and thought-provoking themes.
11. Fangirl – Rainbow Rowell
“You’re the nerd who’d rather write fanfiction than go out and party.”
Starting college is terrifying—especially for Cath, an introvert who would rather stay in her dorm writing fanfiction than go to parties. While her twin sister Wren is out embracing the full college experience, Cath struggles with social anxiety, academic pressure, and self-doubt. But when she meets Levi, a charming, easy-going guy who won’t stop smiling at her, she realizes that maybe real life can be just as exciting as fiction.
This book is funny, relatable, and heart-warming, perfectly capturing the struggles of transitioning into college life. It’s a love letter to introverts, book lovers, and anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider in a new place.
Why college students should read it:
✔ Extremely relatable for introverts, writers, and book nerds
✔ A funny, heartfelt college experience story
✔ Explores first love, friendship, and self-confidence
💡 Recommended for: Students who love witty, character-driven stories about navigating college life.
12. Love & Gelato – Jenna Evans Welch
“Maybe happy endings were real, as long as you understood that they weren’t endings, but steps on the road.”
After losing her mother, Lina is sent to Italy for the summer to live with a father she’s never met. She expects it to be the worst summer of her life—until she discovers her mother’s old journal, leading her on an adventure through Tuscany’s beautiful landscapes, historic streets, and hidden secrets. Along the way, she meets Ren, a charming boy who helps her embrace the joy of life again.
This book is pure escapism—a whimsical, romantic, and uplifting journey through love, grief, and self-discovery. Plus, the Italian setting makes it perfect for travel lovers.
Why college students should read it:
✔ A sweet, heart-warming story set in beautiful Italy
✔ Encourages embracing adventure and stepping outside your comfort zone
✔ A perfect mix of romance, humor, and personal growth
💡 Recommended for: Students who love travel fiction, romance, and uplifting coming-of-age stories.
13. A Court of Thorns and Roses – Sarah J. Maas
“I was not a pet, not a doll, not an animal. I was a survivor, and I was strong.”
A mix of fantasy, romance, and adventure, this novel follows Feyre, a huntress who is taken to a mystical land as punishment for killing a faerie. What starts as a dangerous imprisonment turns into a story of power, love, and survival.
Why students should read it:
✔ A captivating mix of fantasy, romance, and adventure
✔ Features a strong, resilient female lead
✔ Great world-building and rich mythology
✔ Explores love, trauma, power, and independence
💡 Recommended for: Fans of romantic fantasy, action-packed storytelling, and mythological lore.
14. Red Queen – Victoria Aveyard
“Anyone can betray anyone.”
A thrilling blend of fantasy and dystopia, where Mare, a girl from the lower class, discovers she has supernatural abilities—a trait only the ruling elite are supposed to possess. Suddenly, she’s thrown into the dangerous world of the elite, where lies, betrayals, and rebellion run deep.
This book is a blend of dystopia, political intrigue, and fantasy, featuring fast-paced action, shocking twists, and powerful themes of oppression and resistance.
Why students should read it:
✔ Intriguing political power struggles
✔ Strong world-building and suspense
✔ A thrilling blend of dystopian and fantasy elements
✔ Perfect for fans of The Hunger Games and Divergent
💡 Recommended for: Those who enjoy plot twists, betrayals, and rebellion stories.
15. Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe – Benjamin Alire Sáenz
“The problem with my life was that it was someone else’s idea.”
A beautiful, introspective novel about two boys—Aristotle and Dante—who form an unexpected friendship that slowly transforms into something deeper. It’s a raw and touching coming-of-age story. Set in the 1980s, this novel is a quiet yet powerful exploration of identity, masculinity, culture, and acceptance. Through lyrical writing and emotional depth, Sáenz paints a deeply personal and heartfelt journey of two young men learning to embrace who they are.
Why students should read it:
✔ A deeply moving and thought-provoking exploration of identity
✔ Written in a poetic and reflective style that lingers long after reading
✔ Features LGBTQ+ representation with honest, realistic storytelling
✔ Challenges ideas of masculinity, culture, and self-acceptance
💡 Recommended for: Students searching for a meaningful, character-driven story that challenges identity and societal expectations.
16. Tweet Cute – Emma Lord
“Sometimes even shouting into the void feels better than just staring into it.”
Two high schoolers accidentally start a viral Twitter war over a grilled cheese recipe—and have no idea they’re falling for each other in real life. Pepper is a perfectionist running her family’s fast-food chain’s social media. Jack is the class clown who’s secretly managing his family’s struggling deli. What starts as hilarious online banter turns into something much more personal and unexpected.
This book is witty, modern, and full of heart, perfect for the social media generation. It’s a fun, light-hearted rom-com with a lot of charm and clever dialogue.
Why college students should read it:
✔ Hilarious, sharp-witted, and full of fun Twitter drama
✔ A perfect enemies-to-lovers romance
✔ Super relatable for the social media generation
💡 Recommended for: Students who love modern rom-coms with sharp dialogue and online humor.
17. The Princess Diaries – Meg Cabot
“Courage is not the absence of fear but rather the judgment that something is more important than fear.”
Mia Thermopolis is just a regular, awkward high school girl—until she finds out she’s actually the princess of Genovia. Suddenly, her life is full of royal lessons, etiquette training, and embarrassing public appearances, all while she’s just trying to survive high school.
This book is laugh-out-loud funny, full of charm, and completely relatable. It’s about embracing who you are, even when the world expects something different from you.
Why college students should read it:
✔ Hilarious, light, and full of fun drama
✔ Features a relatable, awkward protagonist
✔ A perfect royal fairy-tale escape
💡 Recommended for: Readers looking for humor, charm, and a fun coming-of-age story.
These books are uplifting, funny, and full of engaging themes—perfect for de-stressing and escaping into a feel-good story!
How to Choose the Right Young Adult Book for You
Still unsure which one to pick? Ask yourself:
✔ Do you prefer fantasy, dystopian, or contemporary stories?
✔ Are you in the mood for action, romance, or deep emotions?
✔ Do you want a fast-paced thriller or a slow, thought-provoking novel?
There’s a perfect YA book for every student—so start reading and enjoy the journey!
How to Fit Young Adult Books into Your Busy Schedule
1. Audiobooks for Commutes
You can listen to Young adult books during your commute to campus or while running errands. Platforms like Audible and Libby make it easy to enjoy stories on the go.
2. Join a Book Club
Many institutions have book clubs where you can read Young adult books with fellow students. It’s a great way to meet new people and share your thoughts on your favorite reads.
3. Read Before Bed
Swap your phone for a book before bed. Reading Young adult books can help you unwind and improve your sleep quality.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for an escape, inspiration, or a story that makes you feel something, these young adult books are worth your time. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the genre, young adult books are a fantastic addition to any student’s reading list. They offer a mix of entertainment, escapism, and personal growth, making them the perfect companion for your academic journey.
So, grab a book, find a cozy spot, and let these stories transport you to new worlds!
So, which one will you read first? Let us know in the comments!
FAQs
1. Are young adult books only for teenagers?
No! Young adult books explore themes that resonate with students of all ages, like self-discovery, relationships, and personal growth.
2. Where can I find young adult books for free?
Try your campus library, digital libraries like Libby, or free online resources like Project Gutenberg.
3. Which young adult books are best for fantasy lovers?
Six of Crows and A Court of Thorns and Roses are great choices!
4. What’s are good young adult books for deep thinkers?
The Book Thief and They Both Die at the End will leave you pondering life.
5. How do I read more despite a busy college schedule?
Try audiobooks, set reading goals, and dedicate small pockets of time each day!
