Best TV, Movie, Video Game Adaptations Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2026

"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."

The Hobbit is a classic prelude to J.R.R. Tolkien's famous Lord of the Rings trilogy. The book tells the story of Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit who leads a comfortable life until a group of dwarves and the wizard Gandalf show up at his doorstep. They convince Bilbo to join them on a quest to raid the treasure hoard guarded by the dangerous dragon, Smaug the Magnificent. This adventure takes Bilbo on a journey through Middle-earth, where he encounters various creatures, including the infamous Gollum. The Hobbit is a well-loved novel filled with suspense, humor, and adventure, making it a must-read for fans of classic literature and fiction books.

The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han is a captivating start to the Summer I Turned Pretty series. Belly measures her life in summers, and one summer, everything changes. She realizes the boys she has known since her first summer, Jeremiah and Conrad, are more than just her brother figures. The book explores themes of summer love, enduring friendship, and dawning awareness of sexuality. The author's writing style is immersive, and the characters are relatable. The book is a perfect summer read and a must-read for teens and young adults who love a good coming-of-age story.

This second installment of the Star Wars: The High Republic series, Path of Vengeance, follows the story of cousins Marda and Yana Ro, who belong to the Path of the Open Hand, a group that opposes the use of the Force. While Marda goes on a dangerous mission to find creatures to use against the Jedi, Yana forms an unexpected alliance with her dead lover's father to take down the Path's leader. Cavan Scott's writing is enthralling, and the characters' dilemmas are relatable, making this book a great addition to the series. Fans of Star Wars and young adult fiction will enjoy this book's unique storyline.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a cult-favorite coming-of-age story that offers a captivating look at high school life. Stephen Chbosky's debut novel follows the experiences of Charlie, an observant and introspective teenager, as he navigates adolescence and adulthood. From first dates and family drama to sex, drugs, and The Rocky Horror Picture Show, this novel offers a heartwarming and honest portrayal of the roller-coaster days of growing up. The book is a must-read for teenagers and adults alike, and its unique perspective on the challenges of adolescence makes it a modern classic.

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.

Star Wars: Ahsoka is a must-read for any Star Wars fan, especially those who have long wondered about Ahsoka's fate after leaving the Jedi Order. This #1 New York Times bestselling Young Adult novel, now in paperback, follows Ahsoka's journey after the devastation of Order 66 and her eventual involvement with the Rebel Alliance. The book is a character exploration with sides of action, politics, and drama, and it has an emotional center that gives readers a greater appreciation for Ahsoka's role in the galaxy. Overall, E.K. Johnston's Ahsoka is a thrilling backstory for a compelling character that is sure to delight both young and not so young Star Wars fans.

Avatar, the Last Airbender: The Legacy of Yangchen (Chronicles of the Avatar Book 4) is a gripping new addition to the series by F. C. Yee. The story follows Avatar Yangchen's attempts to restore diplomacy and prevent conflict among the Four Nations while grappling with the worth of humanity and the sacrifices that come with maintaining balance. Yee's writing is taut and provocative, making for a page-turning read. The novel is a must-read for fans of the Avatar franchise and those who enjoy action-packed YA novels.

One Piece: East Blue 1-2-3 is a collection of the first three volumes of the popular manga series. The story follows Monkey D. Luffy and his crew as they search for the ultimate treasure, the One Piece. Luffy's ability to stretch like rubber adds a unique twist to the classic pirate adventure tale. The book is authored by Eiichiro Oda, who is known for his exceptional storytelling skills. The collection is a must-read for fans of the manga genre and those who enjoy action-packed adventures on the high seas.