Best Fiction on Runaways Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2025

From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E. L. Konigsburg is a timeless classic that won the Newbery Medal for its intriguing storyline. Claudia and her brother Jamie run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art where they stumble upon a mystery involving a beautiful statue with an unknown maker. The book is a perfect blend of adventure, mystery, and sibling bonding, making it a must-read for teens and young adults. The unique setting of the museum and the clever plot twists keep readers engaged until the very end. Overall, this book is a delightful read that will leave a lasting impression on its readers.

"Legend" by Marie Lu is a gripping dystopian novel set in a future Los Angeles where the western United States is now the Republic, a nation constantly at war with its neighbors. The story follows two teenagers, June and Day, who come from very different worlds and have no reason to cross paths until a tragic event brings them together. Full of nonstop action, suspense, and romance, this novel is sure to captivate readers. The book has received high praise from various publications, and it deserves all the hype it gets. Overall, "Legend" is a must-read for fans of science fiction action and adventure books for teens and young adults.

"My Side of the Mountain" is a captivating story about a boy named Sam who runs away from his unhappy life in New York City to live alone in the Catskill Mountains. Armed with only a few basic tools, Sam faces the challenges of survival and learns valuable lessons about courage and independence. Written by Jean Craighead George, this classic novel has been loved by generations of readers and is a must-read for anyone who dreams of escaping to the wilderness. Overall, this book is a great choice for English as a Second Language instruction, as it is both engaging and educational.

Paper Towns is a captivating young adult mystery novel by John Green. The story follows the journey of Quentin Jacobsen, who sets out to find the elusive Margo Roth Spiegelman after she disappears, leaving behind a trail of clues. Green's writing is witty, insightful, and poignant, which makes the book an excellent read for teenagers and young adults. The book's unique blend of humor, philosophy, and mystery will keep readers engaged until the very end. Overall, Paper Towns is a thought-provoking coming-of-age story that explores the complexities of friendship, love, and self-discovery.

Aquí estuvimos / We Were Here by Matt de la Peña is a gripping novel that narrates the journey of a boy, Miguel, who is sent to a group home after being sentenced by a judge. The judge asks Miguel to write in a journal so that a counselor can help him figure out his thought process. However, little did the judge know that he actually did Miguel a favor. The book takes readers on a rollercoaster ride of emotions as Miguel meets new people and tries to escape to Mexico to start over. The book is heart-wrenching, funny, and smart. It's a must-read for teens and young adults who enjoy fiction on orphans and foster homes.

Legend: The Graphic Novel, adapted from the original novel by Marie Lu, is a thrilling science fiction manga book that tells the story of June, a military prodigy, and Day, the country's most wanted criminal, who team up to uncover the Republic's deadly secrets and fight injustice. The artist's use of monochrome colors in the poorer areas and vibrant colors in the richer sectors reinforces the theme of extreme oppression. The dialogue is faithful to the original text, and each character is distinctly identifiable and clearly drawn. Overall, this graphic novel is a page-turner that will keep readers on the edge of their seats.

How I Magically Messed Up My Life in Four Freakin' Days (The Tale of Bryant Adams) by Megan O'Russell is a hilarious and action-packed fantasy book for teens and young adults. The story follows Bryant Adams, a wizard who messes up everything he touches, and his misadventures over four days. The book is filled with magical battles, unexpected alliances, and a touch of modern-day technology. The author's ability to blend humor and fantasy makes this book stand out from other similar titles. This is a must-read for anyone who loves a good laugh and a wild adventure.

We Were Here by Matt de la Peña is a gripping novel that follows the journey of Miguel, a boy who was sent to Juvi after an incident. The judge ordered him to spend a year in a group home and write a journal to help him figure out his thoughts. Miguel didn't expect to meet Rondell or Mong or experience what happened after they broke out. He only wanted to forget everything and start over in Mexico. However, life doesn't always work out as planned, and running away is not always the solution. We Were Here is a touching story of self-discovery and friendship that will keep readers hooked until the very end.

"I Am David" by Anne Holm is a powerful story about a twelve-year-old boy who escapes an Eastern European prison camp and embarks on a journey to freedom in Denmark. With only a compass, a few crusts of bread, and his wits, David must navigate a completely unfamiliar world while being pursued by his vengeful enemies. This classic novel explores themes of freedom, hope, and the resilience of the human spirit. The book has been widely acclaimed as one of the finest novels ever written for children aged 9 to 13. Overall, "I Am David" is an extraordinary and unforgettable book that will stay with readers long after they turn the last page."

Being Henry David by Cal Armistead is a gripping and thought-provoking coming-of-age story. The book follows Hank, a seventeen-year-old who wakes up in New York City's Penn Station with no memory of who he is or where he came from, except for a copy of Henry David Thoreau's Walden. As he tries to piece together his past, Hank embarks on a journey to Walden Pond in Concord, Massachusetts, where he hopes to find answers about his identity and past. The book explores themes of guilt, forgiveness, and redemption in a unique and engrossing way. Overall, Being Henry David is a must-read for anyone who enjoys character-driven stories with a touch of mystery and self-discovery.