Best Ghost Stories Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2026

"Long Way Down" by Jason Reynolds is a gripping novel that explores the devastating impact of gun violence. After his brother is murdered, 15-year-old Will is determined to seek revenge, with his brother's gun hidden in his waistband. As he rides the elevator down to the ground floor, he is confronted by a series of unexpected visitors who challenge his assumptions and force him to question his actions. The book has received numerous accolades, including a Newbery Honor, a Printz Honor, and an Edgar Award. Overall, "Long Way Down" is a powerful and timely examination of the cycle of violence and the difficult choices that young people must make in the face of tragedy.

The Fazbear Frights Four Book Box Set: An AFK Book Series is a collection of spine-chilling short stories straight from the twisted mind of Five Nights at Freddy's creator, Scott Cawthon. This box set includes the first four collections of the Fazbear Frights series, each filled with original and haunting tales that are sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats. From characters struggling with their deepest desires to those falling prey to gruesome curses, the sinister world of Five Nights at Freddy's is brought to life in this box set. Overall, this book set is a must-have for fans of the horror genre and the Five Nights at Freddy's franchise.

Five Nights at Freddy's Collection: An AFK Series is a three-book boxed set by Scott Cawthon and Kira Breed-Wrisley. The story revolves around a group of childhood friends who reunite on the anniversary of a tragic event that took place at Freddy Fazbear's Pizza. They discover a way inside the abandoned pizza place, only to find that the four animatronic mascots have a dark secret. The series is a gripping horror story that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The set also includes an original print inspired by the trilogy. Overall, this boxed set is a must-read for fans of the Five Nights at Freddy's video game series and anyone who enjoys a good horror story.

Belladonna is a gothic romance novel written by Adalyn Grace that tells the story of Signa, a 19-year-old orphan raised by a string of guardians, each more interested in her wealth than her well-being. After realizing that her remaining relatives could be in grave danger, Signa enlists the help of a surly stable boy to hunt down the killer. But her best chance of uncovering the murderer is an alliance with Death himself, a fascinating, dangerous shadow who has never been far from her side. Belladonna is a hauntingly atmospheric read, with an absolutely fantastic ending that will leave readers begging for more.

Truly Devious: A Mystery by Maureen Johnson tells the story of Stevie Bell, a true-crime aficionado, who is determined to solve the unsolved kidnapping and murder case of the wife and daughter of the founder of Ellingham Academy. However, as she begins her first year at the prestigious academy, she finds herself entangled in a web of mysteries, as the past resurfaces and death revisits the school. This book is perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and E. Lockhart, and its interwoven mysteries will keep readers on their toes. Overall, Truly Devious is a well-written and intriguing mystery that stands out in the genre.

Cemetery Boys is a paranormal YA debut novel by Aiden Thomas about Yadriel, a trans boy who summons a ghost, Julian Diaz. Yadriel's traditional Latinx family struggles to accept his true gender, so he is determined to prove himself as a real brujo. However, Julian is not ready to leave and wants to solve some unfinished business before departing. The longer Yadriel spends with Julian, the more attached he becomes. This book is a heart-rending, immensely romantic, and necessary read for queer and trans kids who need to see themselves on the page. The book is a beautiful blend of queer paranormal romance and Latinx culture that will charm readers of all ages.

Into the Pit (Five Nights at Freddy's: Fazbear Frights #1) is a spine-chilling collection of three novella-length tales that will keep even the bravest Five Nights at Freddy's fans up at night. The stories explore the twisted world of the game, where the deepest desires of the characters come with an unexpected cost. The book features cover art from fan-favorite artist LadyFiszi and is authored by Scott Cawthon, the creator of the Five Nights at Freddy's video game series. Overall, this book is a must-read for fans of horror and the Five Nights at Freddy's franchise.

The Truly Devious 3-Book Box Set by Maureen Johnson is a thrilling and witty mystery series that follows teen sleuth Stevie Bell as she solves the cold case of a kidnapping and triple murder at Ellingham Academy in 1936. The box set includes Truly Devious, The Vanishing Stair, and The Hand on the Wall. Johnson's writing is clever and atmospheric, creating a multilayered, modern detective story that will keep readers guessing until the end. The series is perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and Harry Potter, and is a must-read for anyone who loves a good mystery.

The captivating sequel to Belladonna, Foxglove (Belladonna, 2) by Anbara Salam, is a dark and seductive gothic romance that is sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats. The story follows Signa and Death as they face a supernatural foe, Fate, who is determined to have Signa for himself. With mysteries and danger at every turn, the cousins must navigate their futures in high society, unravel family murders, and play Fate's unexpected games. Salam's writing is hauntingly atmospheric, and the romance and relationships are pitch-perfect, making this book a must-read for fans of dark fantasy books for teens and young adults.

The Haunted Mansion: Storm & Shade is a spine-chilling horror book for children that takes inspiration from the Haunted Mansion attraction at Disney Parks. The story revolves around Audrey Perez, a high school student who moves to a town famous for its haunted mansion. She and her friends embark on a dangerous adventure to uncover the mystery surrounding the mansion and its 999 happy haunts. The book promises a thrilling ride full of macabre and eerie elements, including a love triangle, ghosts, and a storm that threatens to put everyone's lives in danger. The author, Claudia Gray, has done a fantastic job of creating a creepy atmosphere that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Overall, The Haunted Mansion: Storm & Shade is a must-read for horror fans who love a good scare.