25 Highly Recommended Books for High Schoolers

January 20, 2025

Reading is a great way for high schoolers to explore new ideas and be entertained. I built a habit of reading in my teens and the reason I fell in love with reading was because I read great books. The best part about reading as a hobby is that it doesn’t have to cost any money with the use of a library card. It’s also a great way for teens to reduce their screen time! From timeless novels to modern favorites, this list of books offers something for every teen. Whether they’re looking for an escape into a magical world or learn self-help techniques, this list offers great books for all high schoolers.

Classic Books for Teens

“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee

This is one of my all-time favorite books. It explores themes of justice, racism, and empathy through the eyes of Scout Finch as her father, Atticus, defends a Black man falsely accused of a crime in the segregated South. It’s a great read for high schoolers because it challenges them to think critically about morality and standing up for what’s right. Harper Lee even won a Pulitzer Prize for this book!

“The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton

This story of Ponyboy Curtis and his Greaser friends navigating conflicts with the wealthier Socs is a powerful exploration of friendship, identity, and class struggles. High schoolers connect with its relatable characters and universal themes about finding your place in the world.

“The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger

I remember reading “The Catcher in the Rye” in my high school literature class. This coming-of-age novel follows Holden Caulfield, a teenager questioning society and struggling with feelings of alienation. In high school, I appreciated the honest portrayal of teenage rebellion and self-discovery.

“Animal Farm” by George Orwell

This allegorical novella tells the story of a group of farm animals who overthrow their human owner to create a society where all animals are equal—only for it to spiral into tyranny. High schoolers benefit from its sharp commentary on power, corruption, and politics, making it a thought-provoking read that connects to real-world issues.

Fantasy and Adventure

“Harry Potter” series by J.K. Rowling

You’re probably already familiar with Harry Potter, but the series is still worth mentioning in this list. This beloved series follows Harry Potter, a young wizard, as he discovers his magical heritage, attends Hogwarts, and battles the dark wizard Voldemort. High schoolers love its themes of friendship, bravery, and the fight between good and evil, along with its richly imagined world and relatable characters. You can also watch all of the movies after reading the books!

“Percy Jackson & The Olympians” by Rick Riordan

This action-packed series follows Percy Jackson, a demigod, as he navigates the challenges of being the son of Poseidon while battling monsters and uncovering prophecies. High schoolers enjoy its humor, fast-paced adventure, and fresh take on Greek mythology, all while exploring themes of loyalty and self-discovery.

“The Hunger Games” by Suzanne Collins

Set in a brutal dystopian society, this series follows Katniss Everdeen, a strong and resourceful teen who is forced to compete in a deadly survival competition while challenging the oppressive government that controls her world. High schoolers are drawn to its suspenseful plot, compelling characters, and powerful messages about sacrifice, rebellion, and the fight for freedom.

Science Fiction

“Divergent” by Veronica Roth

Set in a dystopian society where people are divided into factions based on their values, this novel follows Tris Prior as she discovers she doesn’t fit neatly into any one group. High schoolers are drawn to its thrilling action, complex characters, and themes of identity, courage, and the power of choice.

“Ender’s Game” by Orson Scott Card

This sci-fi classic tells the story of Ender Wiggin, a young genius recruited to a military training school to prepare for an intergalactic war. It has an intense story, thought-provoking questions about morality and leadership, and Ender’s struggles with responsibility and isolation. There is also a movie based on the book.

“Cinder” by Marissa Meyer

This futuristic retelling of Cinderella features Cinder, a cyborg mechanic, as she discovers secrets about her past and becomes involved in a battle to save her world. High schoolers enjoy its creative mix of fairy tale elements, sci-fi adventure, and themes of resilience and self-discovery.

“Ready Player One” by Ernest Cline

Set in a dystopian future, this sci-fi novel follows Wade Watts as he competes in a virtual reality treasure hunt to win control of a vast digital world. I loved its fast-paced adventure, 1980s pop culture references, and its exploration of technology, identity, and perseverance.

“Leviathan Wakes” by James S.A. Corey

This gripping space opera follows a conspiracy that threatens humanity, centering on a ship’s captain and a detective searching for the truth. It is great for teens who enjoy a blend of action, mystery, and political intrigue, as well as detailed world-building and exploration of human nature in a futuristic setting.

Contemporary and Realistic Fiction

“The Fault in Our Stars” by John Green

John Green is one of the greatest authors of teen books. This moving novel follows Hazel Grace, a teenager with cancer, as she falls in love with Augustus Waters, a fellow cancer survivor. High schoolers connect with its raw honesty, relatable characters, and powerful themes of love, loss, and finding meaning in life’s challenges.

“Eleanor & Park” by Rainbow Rowell

This heartfelt story is about two misfit teens, Eleanor and Park, who bond over music and comics as they navigate difficult family lives and high school pressures. High schoolers appreciate its realistic portrayal of first love, acceptance, and the struggles of feeling different in a world that demands conformity.

“Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda” by Becky Albertalli

Simon Spier is a closeted gay teenager whose life is turned upside down when someone discovers his secret and threatens to out him. The book is known for its humor, heartfelt moments, and themes of self-acceptance, love, and the courage to be true to oneself.

Mystery Books for High Schoolers

“One of Us Is Lying” by Karen M. McManus

This thrilling mystery follows four high school students who become suspects in the death of a classmate during detention. Its fast-paced plot, shocking twists, and relatable characters will keep teens turning the page for more.

“We Were Liars” by E. Lockhart

If you’re looking for a thriller, this is an amazing choice. This haunting novel revolves around Cadence Sinclair and her summers spent on her wealthy family’s private island, uncovering buried secrets that lead to a shocking twist.

“A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson

This captivating mystery follows Pip, a determined high schooler who investigates a local murder case for a school project, uncovering shocking truths along the way.

Historical Fiction

“The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak

Set in Nazi Germany, this novel tells the story of Liesel, a young girl who steals books and shares their power with others, even as her world is torn apart by war. This is one of the best books for high schoolers that have an interest in historical fiction.

“Code Name Verity” by Elizabeth Wein

This gripping novel follows two young women, a spy and a pilot, whose friendship and bravery are tested during World War II when one is captured by the Nazis. Teens love its emotional depth, suspenseful storytelling, and its exploration of courage.

“Chains” by Laurie Halse Anderson

This powerful novel follows Isabel, an enslaved girl during the American Revolution, as she fights for freedom and navigates a world of loyalty and betrayal. Its vivid historical setting and its inspiring themes of resilience make it a great book for high schoolers.

Inspirational and Self-Help Books for Teens

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” by Sean Covey

Are you looking to learn self-improvement skills while reading? This practical self-help book offers teens strategies for building confidence, setting goals, and making positive life choices. High school is a time where we develop habits going into adulthood. This book is great to read in your teenage years.

“You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero

This motivational guide encourages readers to embrace their self-worth, overcome self-doubt, and go after their dreams with confidence. High schoolers are inspired by its upbeat tone, empowering messages, and practical tips for improving their mindset and achieving success.

Graphic Novels For High Schoolers

“Maus” by Art Spiegelman

This book recounts the Holocaust through the eyes of the author’s father, using anthropomorphic animals to depict different groups of people. It has a unique storytelling format and a deep exploration of history, trauma, and survival, making it both educational and emotionally impactful.

“Heartstopper” by Alice Oseman

“Heartstopper” follows the budding romance between Charlie, an openly gay boy, and Nick, a rugby player discovering his own identity. Best of all, it has been made into a show, which teens can watch after reading the book.

“Nimona” by Noelle Stevenson

This imaginative graphic novel tells the story of Nimona, a shapeshifting sidekick who teams up with a villain to challenge a corrupt institution. Its humor, fast-paced adventure, and deeper themes about identity are great for teen entertainment.