Best Fiction on Prejudice & Racism Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2025

A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson is a gripping young adult mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The story follows high school senior Pip as she investigates the murder of Andie Bell, a popular student who was allegedly killed by her boyfriend, Sal Singh. Pip's investigation leads her to discover a trail of dark secrets that could prove Sal's innocence, but someone in their town doesn't want her digging around. The book is full of twists and turns, and the ending is unexpected. Jackson brilliantly plays off our collective true crime obsession, making this book a must-read for fans of the genre.

As Good as Dead: The Finale to A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson is a gripping and thrilling conclusion to the bestselling mystery series. The protagonist, Pip, is a young woman who has gained popularity for her true-crime podcast. However, she soon finds herself in danger when an anonymous person starts stalking her in real life. The plot escalates when Pip discovers connections between her stalker and a local serial killer. With the police refusing to take action, she takes matters into her own hands. The book is a perfect read for fans of YA thrillers and true crime. Overall, it is a well-written and skillfully constructed novel of suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The A Good Girl's Guide to Murder Complete Series Paperback Boxed Set is a must-read mystery series that includes A Good Girl's Guide to Murder, Good Girl, Bad Blood, and As Good as Dead. Holly Jackson's bestselling series follows protagonist Pip as she investigates the tragic murder of a high school senior, delving into a trail of dark secrets that leads to obsession. The books explore themes of prejudice and racism and are perfect for teens and young adults who enjoy true crime stories. Overall, this boxed set is a thrilling and unique read that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is a heart-wrenching story about the Holocaust, seen through the eyes of two young boys. It follows the journey of Bruno, a young German boy, who moves to a new house near a concentration camp. Bruno's curiosity leads him to meet a Jewish boy on the other side of the fence, and their friendship has devastating consequences. John Boyne's writing style is simple yet powerful, making it a memorable and moving story. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the atrocities of the Holocaust.

The Cruel Prince by Holly Black is a captivating start to The Folk of the Air series. The novel follows Jude, a mortal girl who is taken to live in the treacherous High Court of Faerie after her parents are murdered. Despite facing hostility from many of the fey, including Prince Cardan, Jude longs to belong in their world. To win a place at the Court, she must defy Cardan and become embroiled in palace intrigues and deceptions. Black's world-building is masterful, immersing readers in a magical realm filled with danger and intrigue. The Cruel Prince is a dark and seductive read that will leave readers desperate for more.

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a Printz Honor Winner and a national bestseller that tells the story of sixteen-year-old Starr Carter, who witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil by a police officer. The book explores themes of police brutality, systemic racism, and the struggle of living in two different worlds. With eight starred reviews and numerous awards, this book is an absolute must-read for anyone looking for a powerful and timely story that speaks to the current social and political climate.

Kill Joy: A Good Girl's Guide to Murder Novella is a thrilling murder mystery novella from #1 New York Times bestselling author Holly Jackson. In this book, Pip is drawn into the make-believe world of intrigue, deception, and murder at a murder mystery party. As she plays detective, teasing out the identity of the killer clue-by-clue, she discovers another case on her mind. This novella is perfect for fans of the hit series A Good Girl's Guide to Murder. Holly Jackson's writing is gripping and keeps readers on the edge of their seat. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves true crime, murder mysteries, and unstoppable young women.

Five Survive is a thrilling young adult novel by Holly Jackson that follows six friends on a road trip that turns deadly. With their RV breaking down in the middle of nowhere and no cell service, they realize they have been trapped by someone who wants one of them dead. The tension builds as they must escape or figure out which of them is the target. Holly Jackson's storytelling keeps readers on the edge of their seats with intense suspense and a well-crafted puzzle. Overall, Five Survive is a gripping novel that will leave readers breathless.

Dear Martin by Nic Stone is a powerful and compelling young adult novel that explores American race relations. The story follows Justyce McAllister, an honor student who finds himself in handcuffs when a police officer arrests him despite his good character. The incident leads Justyce to question the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and start a journal addressed to him. However, things take a turn when Justyce and his best friend are caught in the crosshairs of a white off-duty cop. The book is a William C. Morris Award Finalist and a New York Times bestseller, offering a visceral portrait of social injustice that is both timely and moving.

The Weight of Blood by Tiffany D. Jackson is a thought-provoking YA novel that delves into the issue of racism in America. The story follows Madison Washington, a biracial teenager who has been passing for white her entire life. When her school decides to host its first integrated prom, Madison finds herself caught in the middle of racial tensions and bullying. The novel expertly explores internalized and externalized anti-Blackness and the horrors that result from it. Jackson's writing is bone-chilling, and the book is a powerful commentary on the structural racism still present in society. Overall, The Weight of Blood is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the impact of racism on young people today.