Wondering what to get the teen on your Christmas list? Good books for teens make wonderful gifts. They are easy to wrap, pack, and ship, and they offer a chance to connect with the teen at a later point. In our house, there’s always something to read under the tree. I’ve asked teens, consulted Best Of lists, read reviews, and solicited input from librarians to compile this list of top teenage novels and recommended teenage books that make great gifts for teens this holiday season. Whether you’re looking for good books for 14-16 year olds or cool books for teens, this list has you covered.
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I broke the list down into categories. Although several books fit into multiple categories, they are only listed once.
Graphic books
The Prince and the Dressmaker by Jen Wang 
My friend Amanda is a children’s librarian at the award-winning Naperville Public Library with a knack for recommending popular books for teens that adults love to give and kids love to receive. She’s never steered me wrong. She suggests this title and says that it is “a graphic novel about following your dreams and acceptance with gorgeous pictures that would make a great gift.” It’s one of those YA good books that resonate with young readers.
Hey, Kiddo by Jarrett J. Krosoczka
I was a little worried about including this graphic memoir because, while it is widely acclaimed, it deals with some heavy topics, including the toll addiction takes on a family. However, Amanda assures me it really is that good and even contains “funny bits.” I guess it was a finalist for the National Book Award for a good reason, and I shouldn’t second guess.
Updates of Classics
Olivia Twist by Lorie Langdon 
This book explores what may have happened if Oliver Twist were a girl in disguise during her years on the streets and finds herself at a crossroads at age 18 when she encounters the Artful Dodger. It’s one of those great books for 16 year olds that offers a blend of historical intrigue and adventure. “This clever retelling of Dickens’ Oliver Twist is perfect for readers who love romance, adventure, historical settings, and heroines who can kick butt in formal gowns,” says Booklist in a starred review. It’s particularly one of the best books for high school girls who are looking for a strong female protagonist.
Pride by Ibi Zoboi
This retelling of Pride & Prejudice, which is billed as a “remix,” is set in gentrifying Brooklyn among high schoolers facing college applications and more. It’s among the good books for high schoolers that explore complex social issues. In a starred review, School Library Journal says, “This excellent coming-of-age take on a classic belongs on all YA shelves.” It’s definitely a good book to read for teen girls who enjoy modern twists on classic tales.
For Fantasy Fans
Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi 
Set in a fantasy world inspired by West African mythology, this novel that came out in March was a New York Times bestseller. It’s one of the best fantasy books for teens and an excellent choice for those seeking fantasy books for 14 year olds. Kirkus called it “Exceptional” in a starred review, and it also made the Chicago Public Library’s list of Best Teen Fiction in 2018. For teens who love immersive worlds, this is one of the good fantasy books for teens to read.
Grim Lovelies by Megan Shepherd
This book, set in Paris, is the first in a new YA fantasy series from the New York Times best-selling author. It’s a mix of fantasy, modern fairy tale, and action that will have readers turning pages. As one of the fantasy books for teenagers that seamlessly blends different elements, it’s perfect for teens looking for an engaging story. One good part of a series is that kids keep reading, and this one is certainly a good book for teens to read.
Fabulous Fiction
Darius the Great is Not Okay by Adib Khorram 
I’ve seen this on several lists of best teenage fiction books, including TIME’s 10 Best Fiction Books for Teens and Publisher’s Weekly Best Books of 2018. It also gets the Amanda seal of approval as well. “Perfect for geeks who feel so similar to and yet so different from the other members of their families,” she says. This book stands out among good fiction books for teens and is one of the top recommendations in teenage fiction books today.
Your Own Worst Enemy by Gordon Jack
The reviews of this satirical book about a high school student body president election are good. School Library Journal says, “The characters are complex and their thoughts and interactions intriguing. This breezy read features some romantic confusion, plenty of humor, and a few serious moments.” It’s a perfect example of best teenage fiction and teen fiction books with a great balance of humor and depth.
Fascinating Nonfiction
Looking for some girl power under your tree? This is one of the recommended books for teenagers, featuring short stories of women who defied the odds and achieved excellence in their professional lives. These story books for teenagers are a great pick for kids who prefer non-fiction or aren’t avid readers. It’s especially a good book for teenage girls looking for inspiration. It also ranks high among best books for high school girls for its empowering message.
Birding is My Favorite Video Game by Rosemary Mosco
This graphic book, combining science and humor, is packed with fun facts and is perfect for kids who are more interested in short, engaging reads. It’s a highly recommended choice for those searching for good books for teenage girls who prefer non-fiction with a humorous twist.
For Broadway Babies
Dear Evan Hansen by Val Emmich 
Dear Evan Hansen by Val Emmich
You hear of books being made into Broadway productions, but this is the reverse. The smash Tony-winning Broadway production was first on the stage and is now a newly-released novel. If you have a Dear Evan Hansen fan, you check out other gift ideas related to the musical here.
Failing Up: How to Take Risks, Aim Higher, and Never Stop Learning by Leslie Odom, Jr.
This book by the performer who took home a Tony for his performance as Aaron Burr in Hamilton is 208 pages of big life lessons that are particularly good for teens. It’s also a great pick for those looking for the best books of all time for teens, as its motivational themes resonate with both preteens and older readers alike.
Prior Post: 4 lessons I learned in Uganda that made me a better parent to my teen
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