Grayson West
Stories shape us. They introduce characters who linger in our thoughts, worlds that defy reality, and themes that strike at the core of what it means to grow up. Young Adult (YA) literature, often dismissed as simple escapism, carries profound emotional weight. It tackles issues like identity, resilience, and the bittersweet nature of change. Here are 20 series that define the genre.
Graceling Realm By Kristin Cashore
Katsa has always believed her deadly combat skills mark her as little more than a weapon, but everything changes when she uncovers a dangerous secret. As she embarks on a journey across kingdoms, unexpected alliances and betrayals shape her path. This fantasy series keeps readers on edge with every twist.
Brooklyn Brujas By Zoraida Cordova
Magic is a birthright in the Mortiz family, yet each sister’s journey into their powers becomes unpredictable. When dark forces threaten their world, they must lean on family bonds to survive. Merging supernatural elements with everyday struggles, this urban fantasy delivers a fresh, vibrant take on magic and identity.
The Shadowshaper Cypher By Daniel Jose Older
Sierra never expected street art to awaken something ancient, but when murals began shifting before her eyes, she realizes the past is far from forgotten. In the midst of piecing together her family’s legacy, powerful enemies close in, forcing her to embrace magic.
March Trilogy By John Lewis
In the fight for civil rights, every step forward came with tremendous sacrifice, and this graphic novel trilogy brings those moments to life. Through John Lewis’s personal experiences, readers witness protests and struggles that shaped history. The series stands as an educational tool and a powerful call to action.
The Star-Touched Queen By Roshani Chokshi
Inspired by Indian mythology, this dazzling fantasy follows Maya, a princess cursed by a dark prophecy. With poetic prose and a dreamlike setting, Chokshi crafts a world where romance and political intrigue collide. If you loved “The Wrath & the Dawn,” this enchanting tale fascinates with its exploration of destiny.
The Hunger Games By Suzanne Collins
Dystopian fiction reached new heights with Katniss Everdeen’s journey through the brutal, Capitol-controlled arena. Collins doesn’t just deliver thrilling action—she examines the moral weight of survival. She was inspired to write this book by flipping between war coverage and reality TV, making it a prescient commentary on society’s voyeurism.
Harry Potter By J.K. Rowling
Hogwarts may be a school of magic, but for Harry Potter, it’s also a place of discovery and friendship. With each year, new challenges arise—whether it’s battling dark forces or unraveling mysteries. Seamlessly weaving adventure and wonder, this iconic series transports readers into a world that feels both magical and real.
The Mortal Instruments By Cassandra Clare
Step into the shadowy realm of demon hunters and secret societies. Clare’s urban fantasy blends action, romance, and humor while weaving a complex mythology that continues to expand through interconnected series. If you enjoyed reading “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” or “Supernatural,” this series will quickly become your next obsession.
Vampire Academy By Richelle Mead
Training at St. Vladimir’s Academy is tough, but for Rose Hathaway, protecting her best friend is all that matters. As she hones her skills as a guardian, forbidden romance and deadly enemies make survival more complicated. This thrilling series delivers a fresh twist on vampire mythology.
Twilight Saga By Stephenie Meyer
Bella’s quiet life in Forks takes an unexpected turn when she falls for the mysterious Edward Cullen. Their love story is rife with supernatural rivalries and dangerous secrets threatening to tear them apart. Blending suspense and an unforgettable world of vampires and werewolves, this series became a cultural phenomenon for a reason.
Hush, Hush By Becca Fitzpatrick
Nora Grey never believed in angels, but everything changes when she meets Patch Cipriano, a mysterious stranger with an unsettling presence. Their connection deepens, pulling her into a battle between celestial forces where secrets lurk in the shadows. This supernatural thriller keeps readers hooked until the final revelation.
The Infernal Devices By Cassandra Clare
Victorian London hides a world of danger and deception. Tessa Gray arrives expecting a fresh start, only to uncover a rare ability that makes her the target of dark forces. Merging historical intrigue with fantasy, this series delivers a gripping tale of love and sacrifice.
Divergent Trilogy By Veronica Roth
In a society where factions dictate identity, Tris Prior soon realizes she doesn’t fit in neatly. Her struggle to find her place leads to shocking discoveries that threaten the fragile balance of power. With adrenaline-fueled action and thought-provoking themes, this dystopian series explores courage and the fight for individuality.
The Folk Of The Air By Holly Black
Power is the only currency that matters in the treacherous world of the fae, and Jude Duarte quickly learns that survival depends on mastering it. Political intrigue unfolds as alliances shift and betrayals run deep, forcing her to move through a dangerous game of ambition.
The Grisha Trilogy By Leigh Bardugo
Magic has always existed in Ravka, but Alina Starkov never imagined she possessed such abilities. Training among the elite Grisha, she finds herself caught in a battle against forces that threaten to consume her homeland. Rooted in political intrigue, this gripping trilogy delivers power struggles and unforgettable twists.
The Raven Cycle By Maggie Stiefvater
Blue Sargent has always been warned that her kiss will lead to her true love’s death. Yet she never expected to be drawn into a quest for a legendary sleeping king. Joining Gansey, her life takes unexpected turns. Deeply emotional, the series blends contemporary fantasy with rich storytelling.
The Young Elites By Marie Lu
Surviving a deadly illness should have been a blessing, but for Adelina Amouteru, it comes with a dangerous price. Her journey into darkness leads her to a secret group, where ambition and betrayal blur the line between hero and villain. This series is a gripping exploration of vengeance and identity.
Percy Jackson And The Olympians By Rick Riordan
Mingling adventure and Greek mythology, Riordan’s iconic series follows Percy, a modern-day demigod navigating gods, monsters, and prophecies. With witty dialogue and action-packed storytelling, these books remain a staple in YA literature. Lovers of “Harry Potter” who are looking for a mythology twist will find this series a perfect fit.
Legend Trilogy By Marie Lu
In a dystopian society, prodigy June and rebel Day—two teens from opposing sides of a fractured world—engage in a game of survival. Lu’s compelling character dynamics make this series a standout. Drawing inspiration from “Les Miserables,” the cat-and-mouse dynamic between June and Day keeps readers on edge.
The Lunar Chronicles By Marissa Meyer
Cinder may be a cyborg, but she’s also the key to a rebellion against the tyrannical Lunar Queen. While uncovering secrets about her past, she’s drawn into a fight that spans across planets. With sci-fi twists and thrilling action, a futuristic world is reimagined in this series.