If your young adult reader is not into the realm of supernatural in the Twilight saga, or the post-apocalyptic theme in The Hunger Games, there is still a whole library filled with excellent, realistic young-adult novels to check off that intimidating summer reading list. These are my top five:
- The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky: A touching novel about the ups and downs of an introverted high school freshmen, Charlie. It delves within a teenager's struggle between friends, family, romance and finding himself. Not only is it a tear-jerker worth the read, but it is also a movie expected to be released this fall starring Logan Lerman and Emma Watson.
- Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher: In his debut novel, Jay Asher develops a mysterious and captivating story about teenager, Clay's, struggle to understand the reasons behind his classmate, Hannah's, suicide. She leaves behind several audio cassette tapes in which she explains why she has chosen suicide and how Clay influenced that decision. A New York Times best seller and recipient of the Best Book for Young Adults among other awards, this is truly an exceptional novel.
- The Fault in Our Stars by John Green: Popular young adult novelist, John Green's latest release has already received high acclaim as number one New York Times bestseller. Sixteen-year-old Hazel lives day to day stuck to an oxygen tank battling thyroid cancer. Until she encounters Augustus at a cancer support group. Together, the teens ponder how illness will define who they are, the rest of their lives, and what it means to be alive.
- Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson: Another favorite author among teens, Anderson tells a story of an outcast, Melinda, who is the subject of most hate throughout her school. She finds comfort in solitude as she battles trying to hide a terrifying secret that begins her mental unravelling. Beautifully written, Melinda's story is one that deserves to be told.
- The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger: Do not let the publication date discourage you, this 1951 classic is an easier and much more interesting read than most teens expect. The novel describes young Holden Caufield's life days after being expelled from school. In that time he journeys home and ultimately analyzes his life. Holden discusses how unhappy he is and reveals a lot about himself and the teenage psyche through his foul-mouthed tangents. His cynical attitude exposes the harsh realities that even modern teens discover on his or her journey through adolescence.
Did you read these novels? Have any summer reading suggestions? Share in a comment below!
