Best Jewish Fiction Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2025

"Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret." by Judy Blume is a timeless classic that explores the struggles of a young girl trying to fit in with her peers while also navigating her own personal relationship with God. Margaret's story is relatable and authentic, as she grapples with issues like puberty, crushes, and finding her own identity. Blume's writing style is conversational and engaging, making it easy for readers to connect with Margaret and her experiences. This book is a must-read for young adults, especially girls, who are looking for a relatable and empowering coming-of-age story."

Today Tonight Tomorrow by Rachel Lynn Solomon is a delightful romantic comedy about two high school rivals, Rowan and Neil, who team up for a senior class game that takes them all over Seattle. As they spend more time together, they realize they might have feelings for each other. The book is a perfect blend of humor, romance, and coming-of-age themes. The characters are relatable and well-developed, and the setting of Seattle adds to the charm of the story. Overall, Today Tonight Tomorrow is a must-read for anyone looking for a fun and heartwarming YA romance.

"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."

The Hidden Room by William Durbin and Barbara Durbin is a captivating story based on the true account of a Jewish family surviving in a cave in Ukraine during World War II. The book takes readers on a journey of hardship, fear, and hope as the family adjusts to life underground and the dangers of living in constant fear of being captured. The authors skillfully weave in historical details of Ukraine, including Stalin's brutal campaign of forced starvation, known as the Holodomor. The Hidden Room is an inspiring tale of resilience and courage that should be read by everyone, especially those interested in survival stories.

"Once" by Morris Gleitzman is a heart-wrenching story of a Jewish boy named Felix, who is hiding from the Nazis in a Catholic orphanage during World War II. Gleitzman expertly weaves love, friendship, and humor into a painful subject matter, making it a compelling read for young adults. Though the story is filled with tragedy, Felix never loses hope, making it a unique and inspiring read. The novel doesn't shy away from the dark themes of the Holocaust, making it a rare and impactful read for young readers.

The Hired Girl by Laura Amy Schlitz is a delightful historical fiction novel that tells the story of fourteen-year-old Joan Skraggs, who dreams of a better life. Written in diary format, the book offers an intimate glimpse into Joan's world and her struggles to find her place in the world. The novel explores themes of love, faith, education, family, and friendship, making it a relatable read for young adults. The book's unique perspective and engaging characters make it a must-read for lovers of historical fiction.

Yellow Star by Jennifer Roy is a heart-wrenching account of Syvia Perlmutter's survival during the Holocaust. The book is based on the true story of Syvia's experiences in the Lodz ghetto in Poland, where she was one of only twelve children to survive out of over a quarter of a million people. The story is told through free verse inspired by Syvia's own recollections, making it a poignant and emotional read. The inclusion of a timeline, historical notes, and an author's note provides additional context and insight into the events of the Holocaust. This book is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

The book "Then" by Morris Gleitzman is a heart-wrenching story of two children, Felix and Zelda, who escape from a Nazi death camp in Poland during World War II. The book follows their journey as they struggle to survive in a politically hostile environment, with danger lurking at every turn. With the help of a kind woman named Genia and their own resilience, they manage to find a new home and form a family together. Gleitzman's characters are endearing, and their story is a reminder of the importance of family, love, and hope. "Then" is a must-read for anyone interested in Jewish fiction books for teens and young adults.

Some Kind of Hate by Sarah Darer Littman is a Sydney Taylor Honor Book that explores the rise of white nationalism and the destructive power of hate. The story follows Declan Taylor, a teenage pitcher whose injury forces him to confront his anger and frustration with the world. He finds solace in playing video games with Finn, a classmate who shares his anger, and together they join a group fighting against the system that they believe is denying them opportunities. As the battles escalate, Declan must decide how far he is willing to go to fight for what he believes in.

The Ghosts of Rose Hill by R.M. Romero is a magical verse novel that tells the story of Ilana Lopez, a biracial Jewish girl torn between her passion for music and her parents' desire for her to pursue a stable career. As Ilana discovers a forgotten Jewish cemetery behind her aunt's cottage in Prague, she meets the ghost of a kindhearted boy named Benjamin who introduces her to the enchanted side of the city. The book is a love letter to Latin American and Jewish diasporas, based on the author's experiences working to maintain Jewish cemeteries in Eastern Europe. The Ghosts of Rose Hill is a tender and empowering read that you will devour in one sitting.