Best Fiction about Emigration & Immigration Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2025

The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo is a New York Times bestselling novel-in-verse that tells the story of Xiomara Batista, an Afro-Latina heroine who has learned to let her fists and fierceness do the talking in her Harlem neighborhood. However, Xiomara pours her passion and frustration onto the pages of a leather notebook, reciting the words to herself like prayers. Her story is crackling with energy, authenticity, and voice, and is an excellent choice for accelerated tween readers in grades 6 to 8. The book is unique for its powerful truth and the way it amplifies the voices of girls en el barrio.

As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow is a heart-wrenching novel set amid the Syrian Revolution, following Salama Kassab's journey as she tries to survive amidst the chaos. The book is a love letter to Syria and its people, and the author's portrayal of the characters' emotions is both raw and powerful. The novel's unique aspect is the protagonist's imagined companion, Khawf, who adds depth to Salama's character and the story's underlying themes. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the human cost of war and the struggles of those forced to flee their homes.

"Antes de ser libres" by Julia Alvarez is a captivating coming-of-age story set in the Dominican Republic during the dictatorship of Trujillo. Anita, a twelve-year-old girl, must confront her fears and leave everything she knows behind to fly towards freedom. Alvarez's writing is as compelling for adolescents as it is for adults, and this novel is a stirring work of art. The book's unique perspective on emigration and immigration themes makes it a must-read for young adults."

Seedfolks by Paul Fleischman is a heartwarming tale about a Cleveland community garden's founding and first year. Through the voices of thirteen diverse characters, the story shows how a simple act of planting lima beans in a vacant lot can bring together people from different backgrounds and cultures. The book's short length, relatable characters, and universal message of hope make it suitable for both children and adults. This book is a beautiful tribute to the power of community and the importance of diversity.

"Borderless" by Jennifer De Leon is a heart-wrenching young adult novel about a mother and daughter's perilous journey from Guatemala City to the US border. Caught in the crosshairs of gang violence, Maya and her mother have to flee their home and cross Guatemala and Mexico to reach the US border. Maya's passion for trashion and her mother's unwavering support make the book even more relatable and emotional. This book is a must-read for those interested in fiction about emigration and immigration, especially for young adults.

Only This Beautiful Moment by Abdi Nazemian is an intergenerational coming-of-age story that explores family, identity, and trauma through the experiences of three generations of boys in an Iranian family. The story is set against the backdrop of Tehran and Los Angeles and deals with themes such as racism, homophobia, and the relations between the United States and Iran. Nazemian's elegant prose and expert handling of historical and cultural nuances make this a must-read for fans of LGBTQ+ fiction books for teens and young adults. The book is a touching ode to the fragile bonds of family and the hidden secrets of history that make us who we are today.

No somos de aquí / We Are Not from Here (Spanish Edition) is a poignant novel inspired by current events that follows the journey of three Guatemalan teenagers as they cross the border between Mexico and the United States. Pulga, Chico, and Pequeña face danger, resilience, pain, and hope as they travel through Mexico on the dangerous cargo train known as La Bestia. The novel highlights the sacrifices made by migrants at the southern border and is based on real-life events. Overall, this book provides a powerful and emotional portrayal of the struggles faced by migrants and their quest for a better life.

Before We Were Free, by Julia Alvarez, tells the story of Anita de la Torre, a young girl living in the Dominican Republic during the dictatorship of Trujillo. As her family begins to emigrate to the United States, Anita must navigate the dangers of living under a tyrannical regime and find the courage to escape to freedom. The book has received critical acclaim and has won several awards, including the Pura Belpré Award. Alvarez's writing is both realistic and compelling, offering readers a glimpse into the struggles faced by those living under oppressive governments. Before We Were Free is a must-read for anyone interested in immigration, human rights, and the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

"When the Angels Left the Old Country" is a queer immigrant fairytale that explores individual purpose, identity, and the power of love. The story follows Uriel the angel and Little Ash, the only two supernatural creatures in their shtetl, as they search for a missing emigrant in America. Along the way, they encounter humans in need of their help and face obstacles such as medical exams, corrupt officials, and poverty. This beautifully written book tackles questions of identity, good and evil, and the many forms love can take. It also features Jewish folklore and two magical protagonists, making it a unique and fascinating read."

American Street by Ibi Zoboi is a National Book Award Finalist that tells the story of Fabiola Toussaint, a young Haitian immigrant who, after arriving in Detroit, must navigate her new life without her mother, who is detained by U.S. immigration. The book explores themes of family, love, and the pursuit of the American dream, all while incorporating magical realism and vodou culture. With five starred reviews and multiple awards, American Street is a must-read for fans of Nicola Yoon and Jason Reynolds. This stunning debut novel is a powerful coming-of-age story that will leave readers captivated and moved.