A fascinating selection hand-picked by our Work Experience teen: Amelie!

“This is a selection of our favourite young adult books that focus of growing up and exploring the world around us. They are about teenagers from all walks of life and range from fantasy to real life, and are guaranteed to be gripping reads!”

Aristotle and Dante Discover The Secrets Of The Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenez
Aristotle is 14 when he when he meets Dante, a scrawny boy who offers to teach him to swim. It’s a heart-warming book about identity, and two boys exploring the world around them.

One by Sarah Crossan
“One”, Winner of the Carnegie medal 2016, is a verse novel which follows the story of grace and Tippi, conjoined twins, and the unique problems they must face. This book is best read with a big box of tissues, but it’s worth it!

Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell
When socially awkward Cath moves to university, she must learn to live without Wren, her more outgoing twin, manage having a loud roommate, and keep up with her writing alongside regular assignments. This is a brilliant story about love, family, and fanfiction!

Loveless by Alice Oseman
“Loveless” follows the story of 18-year-old Georgia as she moves to university, and explores her identity, makes friends, and learns about different types of love.

The Henna Wars by Adiba Jaigirdar
“The Henna Wars” is a light-hearted rom com that follows the story of Nishat and Flavia as they compete in a school competition to create a successful business. It tackles themes of cultural appropriation, race, and homophobia, while still being a delightfully upbeat read!

Long Way Down – Jason Reynolds & Chris Priestley
“Long Way Down” takes place in a lift as Will hardens his resolve to take revenge on his brother’s killer. Each chapter brings a different character from Will’s past to challenge his decision. This book is fast paced tense and will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Northern Lights by Philip Pullman
“Northern Lights” follows the story of 12-year-old lyra who lives in an alternate version of Oxford, where a person’s spirit takes form as an animal. One day lyra’s best friend, Will, is snatched from his home and Lyra must set out to track him down. This book is beautifully written, has satisfyingly complex characters, and a uniquely intricate world that will not let you go!

Carry on By Rainbow Rowell
Simon Snow is arguably the worst chosen on to have ever been prophesised. He can’t control his magic, The Mage (his mentor) is avoiding him, and magic has been disappearing from across Britain. This book will make you laugh, cry and root for the characters from the first page!