Whether you’re into contemporary fiction, classics with a modern appeal, fantasy and science fiction, nonfiction, graphic novels, or even mystery and thriller books, this article is the perfect guide for you! As you continue reading, you will get book recommendations from each of these genres to hopefully find a book that will be a fun and light read throughout the school year.
1. Contemporary Fiction
The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky: A coming-of-age novel that delves into topics including friendship, mental health, and the finding of one’s identity. This book also has a film interpretation which you can watch!
Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell: This is a heartfelt love story between two individualistic teens set in the 1980s.
They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera: A novel that challenges readers to think about life, mortality, and the connections we make as they read along!
2. Classics with a Modern Appeal
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee: A timeless novel on justice and morality, exploring themes of racism and integrity through the eyes of a young girl.
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger: The nostalgic coming-of-age novel following Holden Caulfield’s journey through teenage angst and discovery.
Lord of the Flies by William Golding: A gripping story about survival, morality, and the human psyche when societal rules are stripped away.
3. Fantasy and Science Fiction
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins: A dystopian adventure that raises questions about power, sacrifice, and human nature.
Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card: A sci-fi classic about young genius Ender Wiggin who trains to save humanity from alien threats.
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo: A thrilling fantasy heist story set in a richly imagined world full of complex characters and twists.
4. Historical Fiction
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak: Narrated by Death, this WWII-era novel is about a young girl who finds solace in stealing books and sharing them.
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr: A beautifully written novel about the lives of a blind French girl and a German soldier during WWII.
Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys: A haunting story based on real events about a young Lithuanian girl’s survival during the Soviet occupation.
5. Non-Fiction and Memoirs
Educated by Tara Westover: A memoir about growing up in a strict and abusive household and the journey to self-education and independence.
Just Mercy by Bryan Stevenson: An inspiring and eye-opening look at the justice system through the work of lawyer Bryan Stevenson.
Becoming by Michelle Obama: The former First Lady’s reflections on her life, her journey, and the experiences that shaped her.
6. Graphic Novels
Maus by Art Spiegelman: A powerful graphic novel recounting the Holocaust through a unique narrative style.
Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi: A memoir about growing up during the Islamic Revolution in Iran, exploring culture, identity, and resilience.
American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang: A graphic novel that tackles identity, race, and self-acceptance creatively and engagingly.
7. Mystery and Thrillers
One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus: A thrilling story about five students in detention, one of whom doesn’t make it out alive.
A Study in Charlotte by Brittany Cavallaro: A modern take on Sherlock Holmes, featuring the teenage descendants of Holmes and Watson.
Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson: A mystery about a girl who enrolls in an elite academy to solve a cold case.
Each of these books offer something unique, from life lessons to pure entertainment, and they are all likely to leave a lasting impression on you as you read!