Best Alien Science Fiction Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2025

Shatter Me, the first book in Tahereh Mafi's series, is a thrilling dystopian novel that follows the story of Juliette Ferrars, a girl with a lethal touch. The Reestablishment sees her power as a gift and an opportunity to use her as a deadly weapon. However, when Juliette is reunited with someone who once cared for her, she discovers a strength she never knew she had. Mafi's writing style is unique and creative, with strikeouts revealing Juliette's inner thoughts. The book is both a cautionary tale and a juicy love story, making it an addictive and intense read for young adults.

The Complete Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy Boxset is a hilarious and entertaining read for anyone who loves science fiction and humor. This collection includes all five parts of the trilogy, following Arthur Dent's adventures through space and time. From the destruction of Earth to the ultimate gastronomic experience, the series offers a mind-boggling variety of ways to be blown up and/or insulted. The author, Douglas Adams, creates an imaginative and witty universe that will keep readers engaged from beginning to end. Overall, this boxset is a must-read for anyone looking for a fun and unique sci-fi adventure.

The Ender Saga #1 box set contains five volumes: Ender's Game, Speaker for the Dead, Xenocide, Children of the Mind, and Ender in Exile. Orson Scott Card's science fiction series is widely considered one of the greatest ever written, translated into over 34 languages and selling millions of copies in the US and Canada. The series follows the life of Ender Wiggin, beginning with his training as a child soldier to his eventual leadership in an interstellar war. The books offer a captivating mix of action, philosophy, and empathy. This box set is perfect for new readers and collectors alike.

Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card is a thrilling science fiction novel that follows the story of a young boy named Ender Wiggin, who is recruited by government agencies to become a soldier and defend against a hostile alien race. The book explores themes of isolation, rivalry, and the fear of becoming like one's enemies. Card's writing is engaging, and the characters are well-developed. The book's unique premise and execution make it a must-read for fans of the science fiction genre.

Saga: Compendium One is a must-read for fans of science fiction graphic novels. This compendium collects the first nine volumes of the New York Times bestselling series, featuring over 1,300 pages of gorgeously graphic full-color artwork. The story follows a girl named Hazel and her star-crossed parents, telling the entire story (so far!). The new cover from Eisner Award-winning SAGA co-creator FIONA STAPLES adds an extra touch of beauty to the already stunning artwork. Overall, this compendium is an incredible binge-read and a fantastic addition to any graphic novel collection.

An instant #1 New York Times bestseller, Iron Widow blends Chinese history and mecha science fiction for a young adult audience. Zetian, an 18-year-old girl, offers herself up as a concubine-pilot to assassinate the ace male pilot responsible for her sister's death. But things take an unexpected turn, and Zetian becomes an Iron Widow, a feared female pilot who can sacrifice boys to power up Chrysalises. She is paired with Li Shimin, the strongest and most controversial male pilot in Huaxia. The book explores misogyny and power dynamics in a unique way, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

A Wrinkle in Time: The Graphic Novel is a stunning adaptation of Madeleine L'Engle's classic science fiction and fantasy novel, now a major motion picture. Hope Larson's colorful illustrations bring the story's memorable characters, like the three Mrs. and the Happy Medium, to life in a new and exciting way. The graphic novel is perfect for both old fans and new readers, and it remains true to the story's soul, delivering all the intellectual and emotional impact of the original novel. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves classic literature books for teens and young adults.

The Selection by Kiera Cass is a captivating and romantic novel, perfect for readers who enjoyed The Hunger Games or The Bachelor. The story follows America Singer, who is selected to compete for the heart of Prince Maxon and a chance to escape her rigid caste system. While America is hesitant at first, she soon finds herself drawn to the prince and the possibility of a new life. Cass's debut novel is reminiscent of other fairy tale stories but with a unique dystopian twist that keeps readers engaged. Overall, The Selection is an enjoyable and charming read that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.

The Elite is the second book in Kiera Cass's Selection series, which follows the story of America Singer and her journey to win Prince Maxon's heart. With even more glamour, intrigue, and romance, this sequel is a page-turner that will captivate readers who enjoy books like Divergent or The Wrath & the Dawn. America is still struggling to decide who she truly loves, Maxon or her first love, Aspen, while the competition is fiercer than ever. This book is a delightful read for young adults who love a good royal romance.

Cinder: Book One of the Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer is a thrilling and unique retelling of the classic Cinderella story, set in a futuristic world where cyborgs and androids are commonplace. The story follows Cinder, a gifted mechanic who is also a cyborg, as she becomes intertwined in an intergalactic struggle and a forbidden attraction with Prince Kai. With high-stakes action and a smart, resourceful heroine, this book is a must-read for fans of both fairy tales and science fiction. Overall, Cinder is a strikingly original and captivating start to the Lunar Chronicles series.