The ability to tackle important but often overlooked topics is another aspect. 'We Are Okay' deals with grief in a very real and raw way that is not always seen in YA. These novels don't shy away from difficult emotions and experiences, which can make them stand out to readers who are looking for something more profound and thought - provoking in their YA reads.
Another great unknown YA novel is 'Dumplin'' by Julie Murphy. It's a story about a plus - size girl who enters a beauty pageant, challenging the norms of beauty and self - acceptance. It's full of heart, humor, and important messages about body image and self - love.
Another one could be 'Uprooted' by Naomi Novik. It has a unique blend of Slavic folklore and a coming - of - age adventure. The main character, Agnieszka, is taken from her village by a powerful wizard known as the Dragon. She has to learn magic and face various dark forces in the enchanted forest that surrounds the wizard's tower.
One great unknown novel is 'The Shadow of the Wind' by Carlos Ruiz Zafón. It's a mystery set in post - war Barcelona, filled with complex characters and a plot that weaves through the city's history. The atmosphere is beautifully created, making the reader feel as if they are walking the cobbled streets along with the characters.
Some great YA graphic novels include 'Persepolis' by Marjane Satrapi. It's a powerful memoir about growing up in Iran during a time of political unrest. The art is simple yet effective in conveying complex emotions and experiences.
In 2017, 'The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue' by Mackenzi Lee was among the best YA novels. It's a historical - fiction adventure filled with humor, romance, and self - discovery. The characters are well - developed and the story is full of exciting escapades across Europe. 'Renegades' by Marissa Meyer is also notable. It has a great superhero - like concept where there are two groups with different ideologies in a post - apocalyptic world. And 'The Inexplicable Logic of My Life' by Benjamin Alire Sáenz is a heartwarming story about family, friendship, and self - identity.
Some of the best 2018 YA novels include 'Children of Blood and Bone' by Tomi Adeyemi. It's a fantasy novel filled with magic, adventure, and a strong female lead. Another great one is 'The Poet X' by Elizabeth Acevedo, which is a beautifully written novel in verse about a young girl finding her voice through poetry. And 'Darius the Great Is Not Okay' by Adib Khorram, a story about a teen dealing with his identity and mental health while on a trip to Iran.
Some of the well - known YA novels could be 'The Hunger Games' by Suzanne Collins. It's set in a dystopian world where teens fight to the death in an annual event. Another one is 'Harry Potter' series by J.K. Rowling, which follows the magical adventures of a young wizard and his friends at Hogwarts. 'To All the Boys I've Loved Before' by Jenny Han is also popular, a story about a girl whose secret love letters get sent out.
Some of the best 2019 YA novels include 'The Poet X' by Elizabeth Acevedo. It's a powerful story about a young girl finding her voice through slam poetry. Another great one is 'On the Come Up' also by Acevedo. It follows a teen rapper dealing with various challenges in her life and in the music industry.
Some of the best 2020 YA novels include 'Concrete Rose' by Angie Thomas. It's a prequel to 'The Hate U Give' and delves into the backstory of Starr's father. Another great one is 'Cemetery Boys' by Aiden Thomas, which combines elements of mystery, romance, and the supernatural with a strong focus on Latinx culture. And 'All Boys Aren't Blue' by George M. Johnson is also notable for its honest exploration of queer black boyhood.