10 Best Young Adult Books in 2022 (Education Specialist-Reviewed)

Pros:

• Presents the idea that a magical world is hidden within our world
• Can be enjoyed by both children and adults
• Contains a lot of sub-genres like fantasy, mystery, adventure, and romance

Cons:

• It's a long series that takes dedication to get through

Harry Potter takes you on a journey through seven years of his life as he discovers his heritage as a wizard explores every corner of the secret Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. He must also navigate friendships, teachers, the Dark Lord, and eventually romance during his time at Hogwarts.

Reviewers love this unique box set because the design reflects how special the Harry Potter series is to them. Many said they bought this set either to display it or give it as a gift. However, some had issues with quality control, saying that some of their books were missing pages. Nevertheless, customers agreed that this set has a beautiful art style.

Pros:

• Its life or death competition that will keep you on your toes
• It mirrors real-life events with current events in our world
• Contains several sub-genres like romance, dystopian, and sci-fi

Cons:

• It may have some adult themes that younger readers may not appreciate

When Katniss volunteers to take her sister’s place in the Hunger Games, she leaves her provincial home of District 12 and is taken to the Capitol for training. What is essentially a reality show for the citizens of the Capitol is a fight to the death for the teenagers who are forced to kill or be killed.

With its detailed world-building and strong heroine, this is a gripping story that will pull at your heartstrings. Readers especially love the fast pace of the narrative. Most agree that the boxed set is better value, though its quality is occasionally challenged by a reviewer. But, these books are worth the read because of the ideas it presents.

Pros:

• World War II is narrated by an intriguing narrator - Death himself
• Its well-developed characters and their coming-of-age struggles will resonate with many readers
• People who love reading will find that this is a love letter to them

Cons:

• The subject matter may be too heavy for younger readers

Narrated by Death, he tells the story of a young book thief named Liesel who has fallen in love with reading at a dangerous time. As she’s living in 1939 Germany, her world changes when her foster family decides to hide a Jewish person in their basement.

Most reviewers described this book as "life-changing." Readers praised this book for tugging at their heartstrings. Some critics say it lacks a plot, but these criticisms belong to a very small minority. Despite this, its well-written characters have their own stories and are guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings.

Pros:

• This dystopia answers the question of what happens to a society that lives forever
• It makes readers think about life and death through the journal entries of the Scythes
• Contains an intriguing major character that is an artificial intelligence unit (and is not evil, for once)

Cons:

• It may contain dark subject matter like death and violence for younger readers

In a utopian world where all disease, injuries, and accidents can't kill people, this society's solution for overpopulation is a group of people called "Scythes" to "glean" citizens every once and a while. Two teenagers are then recruited to be scythes and learn the art of "gleaning." Along the way, they begin to question if these Scythes do have the right to decide who lives and who dies.

Readers praised this book because of its thought-provoking material that made them question the meaning of being human. They praised the author's imagination and how he laid out a story in a simple yet impactful way. Readers agree that this collection is a must-have. 

Pros:

• It has elements of Nigerian mythology
• The story follows a magical protagonist in a world where magic is dying
• Tackles tragedy and loss and how the characters deal with their pain, which may inspire readers with their struggles

Cons:

• Other installments in the series are still being written (though this could also be considered a Pro for some)

In a land where magic has disappeared and maji are being hunted down because of their power, a young girl, Zélie, fights to bring magic back to her land of Orïsha. Along with her quest, she struggles to control her powers and learns about the harsh reality of her society.

This book garnered praise for its rare glimpse of West-African-inspired fantasy. Readers loved the book's universal message about oppression and racism. However, some criticized this book for being cliche and predictable. Nevertheless, most agreed that the diverse cast and imaginative world are worth getting to know.

Pros:

• As the protagonists learn life lessons from the stories of other side characters, the readers do as well
• Tackles themes of racism, bravery, and childhood innocence
• Also contains an entertaining courtroom drama

Cons:

• May contain themes of abuse that should be explained to younger readers

This well-known classic has withstood the test of time with its commentary on society and its coming-of-age themes. It follows the story of Scout Finch and her adventures as she grows up in 1930s Maycomb, Alabama.

Readers have praised this book for its lessons and well-written characters. They loved the innocence of its main characters as it tackled serious issues about society like discrimination.

Pros:

• It has a swoon-worthy romance and is a light read
• Has LGBTQ+ and multiracial representation
• Tackles coming-of-age and mental health in a relatable way

Cons:

• The plot may be a little predictable for some

This story follows Liz who dreams of studying in an elite college outside of her small town. Despite being shy, she braves social media exposure and awkward public events just to attain the Prom Queen Scholarship. New girl Mack eases the unpleasant experience for Liz, but Liz finds out that Mack is running for prom queen, too.

Readers praised this book for having all kinds of representation like LGBTQ+, people of color, and mental health. Readers also praised the romance as being "swoon-worthy." But, some reviewers said the plot is a bit predictable and cheesy. Nevertheless, readers recommend this for a heartwarming and lighthearted read.

Pros:

• Inspired by the recently-prominent Black Lives Matter movement
• Social commentary that is still very relevant today
• The main character, Starr Carter, will inspire young readers to find their voice

Cons:

• Themes of killing and oppression that may not be suitable for everyone

Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter lives a double life: one in the poor neighborhood she grew up, and one in the fancy prep school she attends.  Her life is disrupted when she witnesses her best friend get shot by a police officer, and she is left to narrate what happened.

This is an engaging and necessary read for contemporary issues. Readers applauded the brave message of this book. But, some reviewers think this book leans too much on stereotypes. Nevertheless, the majority agree that this is a powerful and amazing read.

Pros:

• Represents the consequences of what happens when pain and suffering are totally eradicated
• Deeply delves into how memories make us who we are
• Readers will empathize with Jonas' journey and his fight against his seemingly perfect society

Cons:

• Does not have a direct sequel, only companion novels

Twelve-year-old Jonas lives in a utopian world; everything is perfect. That is, until he is given his life assignment, and begins to see cracks in the facade of their fantastic society.

This book is especially appreciated by reviewers for its agelessness. Children can enjoy it, but a lot of adults seem to find meaning in the text. Among the negative reviews, some say the book was damaged, so you'll want to consider buying a new copy when looking for this one.

Pros:

• This book is fast-paced, so it's good for those that don't like slow-paced reading
• It has many plot twists and shocking revelations
• The mystery of the book will keep readers guessing

Cons:

• Has dark themes that may not be suitable for younger readers
• There's also an animal death (trigger warning)

Five years after a murder case in her small town, Pippa Fitz-Amobi re-opens the case and uses it for her final year project. What at first was supposed to be an academic requirement takes a sinister turn as she uncovers truths that were supposed to remain buried.

Readers loved the fast pace and shocking twists and turns of this novel. However, some reviewers found the shift between the first and third person to be a bit jarring. Despite this, reviewers agreed that people will enjoy the thrill and mystery of this story.