The Greatest "Fiction, Children's books, Teen & Young Adult" Books Since 2000

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Fiction

Children's books

Children's books are a category of literature that is specifically written and designed for children. These books are typically aimed at readers between the ages of 0-12 and cover a wide range of topics, from picture books for toddlers to chapter books for older children. Children's books often feature colorful illustrations, simple language, and engaging stories that are meant to entertain, educate, and inspire young readers. They can cover a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and more, and are an essential part of a child's early education and development.

Teen & Young Adult

The "Teen & Young Adult" category in literature encompasses a broad range of fiction and non-fiction books specifically tailored for readers aged roughly between 12 and 18 years old. These books often feature protagonists and experiences that resonate with the challenges, emotions, and transitions characteristic of adolescence and young adulthood. Themes such as identity, romance, friendship, family dynamics, and self-discovery are commonly explored, with settings ranging from realistic to fantastical. The genre aims to provide a relatable and engaging reading experience, offering both escapism and insight into the complexities of growing up. While primarily targeting teenagers and young adults, these books often possess a crossover appeal, attracting adult readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories and the fresh perspectives of youthful narratives.

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  1. 1. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J. K Rowling

    In the fifth installment of this iconic series, the young wizard Harry Potter returns for his fifth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, only to discover that much of the wizarding world, including the Ministry of Magic, is in denial about the teenager's recent encounter with the evil Lord Voldemort. Harry is also beset by disturbing dreams while the sinister prison guards of Azkaban have been stationed at Hogwarts to protect the school, and Harry's budding abilities as a wizard are put to the test. Meanwhile, a secret society, the Order of the Phoenix, is working to fight Voldemort and his followers, and Harry's role in the coming conflict is becoming ever more significant.

  2. 2. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J. K Rowling

    In the sixth installment of the series, the protagonist returns for his sixth year at a magical school, where he excels in potions class with the help of an old textbook once belonging to the mysterious "Half-Blood Prince". As he delves deeper into his enemy's past through private lessons with the headmaster, he learns more about the Dark wizard's history and his own destiny. Amidst this, the school is no longer the safe haven it once was, and danger lurks within the castle walls. The year ends with a devastating loss, setting the stage for the final showdown.

  3. 3. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J. K Rowling

    In the final installment of this popular series, the protagonist and his friends decide to leave their school to complete the mission left to them by their late headmaster - to destroy the remaining pieces of the antagonist's soul, hidden in various objects. As they journey through the wizarding world, they uncover the truth about the antagonist's past and the legend of the Deathly Hallows. Amidst the escalating war, they are captured and narrowly escape, leading to the ultimate battle at their school where many lives are lost. The protagonist learns he must sacrifice himself to truly defeat the antagonist, but is given a second chance at life and finally triumphs, ending the war. The story concludes with a glimpse into the peaceful future they have all earned.

  4. 4. Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman

    "Noughts and Crosses" is a thought-provoking novel set in a dystopian society where racial segregation is reversed. It follows the lives of two main characters: a girl from the ruling class (Crosses) and a boy from the underclass (Noughts). Despite their different backgrounds, they form a deep bond that eventually turns into a romantic relationship, challenging the societal norms and prejudices. The novel explores themes of love, racism, and power, offering a poignant commentary on the repercussions of societal divisions.

  5. 5. Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

    A 12-year-old genius and criminal mastermind, Artemis Fowl, kidnaps a fairy, Captain Holly Short, for a large ransom of gold with the help of his bodyguard, Butler, to restore his family's fortune. In the process, he discovers an underground world of armed and dangerous fairies. The fairies fight back with magic, cunning, and technological weapons leading to a high-stakes battle of wits.

  6. 6. Coraline by Neil Gaiman

    A young girl named Coraline Jones moves into a new home and discovers a secret door leading to an alternate version of her life, where her "Other Mother" and "Other Father" reside. Although this parallel world seems better at first, she soon realizes that her Other Parents want to keep her there permanently and that they are not as they appear. Coraline must use her bravery and wits to save herself and her real parents, who have been kidnapped by the Other Mother, and free the souls of other children trapped in this alternate world.

  7. 7. Inkheart by Cornelia Funke

    The book revolves around a young girl named Meggie and her father Mo, who possesses a unique ability to bring characters from books to life by reading aloud. This gift, however, comes with a price, as they are entangled in a dangerous adventure when a villain from a fantasy book called "Inkheart" is accidentally summoned into the real world. As they struggle to fix the chaos caused by this crossover, they must navigate a treacherous world of magic and betrayal, while attempting to thwart the villain's sinister plans and protect the balance between reality and the fantastical realms of literature.

  8. 8. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

    The book is a young adult novel that explores the themes of nonconformity and self-expression through the story of an eccentric and free-spirited girl who calls herself Stargirl. She arrives at Mica High School in Arizona and immediately stands out for her unique behavior and homemade clothes. Her presence challenges the status quo and prompts varying reactions from the other students, ranging from admiration to hostility. As the protagonist captures the attention of the narrator, a boy named Leo, he finds himself drawn to her authenticity and spirit, but also struggles with his desire for social acceptance. The story delves into the impact of individuality on peer relationships and the courage it takes to be true to oneself in the face of conformity.

  9. 9. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

    The novel follows the unusual life of a boy named Nobody "Bod" Owens who, after his family is murdered, is raised by the supernatural inhabitants of a graveyard. Under the protection of ghosts and his guardian, who is neither living nor dead, Bod learns about the living world and the dangers it holds, including the man Jack who continues to hunt for him. As he grows up among tombstones and crypts, Bod explores the limits of his graveyard home, encounters creatures of the night, and ultimately confronts the sinister forces that took his family from him, all while trying to lead a normal life despite his extraordinary upbringing.

  10. 10. American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang

    "American Born Chinese" by Gene Luen Yang is a graphic novel that weaves together three distinct storylines to explore themes of identity, cultural assimilation, and self-acceptance. The book follows the lives of Jin Wang, a Chinese-American boy struggling to fit in at school, the Monkey King, a mythical character striving for acceptance among his peers, and Danny, a white American teenager dealing with his Chinese cousin's visit. Through these interconnected narratives, the book delves into the complexities of being an immigrant and the challenges of navigating multiple cultural identities in America.

  11. 11. Rules Of Summer by Shaun Tan

    "Rules of Summer" is a visually stunning and thought-provoking picture book that explores the complex relationship between two young boys during their summer vacation. Through a series of surreal and imaginative illustrations, the book delves into themes of friendship, power dynamics, and the unspoken rules that govern their interactions. With its rich imagery and open-ended narrative, "Rules of Summer" invites readers to reflect on the nuances of human relationships and the lessons learned during the season of growth and change.

  12. 12. The Sea Of Monsters by Rick Riordan

    In this thrilling sequel set in a modern world where Greek mythology is reality, a young demigod embarks on a perilous quest to save his endangered summer camp, Camp Half-Blood. The magical borders protecting the camp are failing, and to prevent its destruction, our hero and his friends must journey into the treacherous Sea of Monsters to find the mythical Golden Fleece, the only thing powerful enough to heal the land. Along the way, they face numerous mythological foes and discover startling truths about their own identities and destinies. This action-packed adventure not only tests their bravery and friendships but also sets the stage for further challenges in the unfolding saga of their extraordinary lives.

  13. 13. A Kind Of Spark by Elle McNicoll

    "A Kind of Spark" tells the story of Addie, an 11-year-old girl with autism who is determined to fight for acceptance and understanding in her small town. Inspired by the historical injustices faced by those accused of witchcraft, Addie embarks on a mission to have a memorial erected in memory of the people who were wrongfully persecuted. Through her unwavering determination, Addie not only educates her community about neurodiversity but also discovers the power of her own voice. This heartfelt and empowering novel explores themes of identity, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right.

  14. 14. Merci Suárez Changes Gears by Meg Medina

    In "Merci Suárez Changes Gears," readers follow the life of Merci Suárez, a sixth grader navigating the complexities of both adolescence and her scholarship at an elite private school. As she deals with typical issues like difficult friendships and school pressures, Merci also faces unique family challenges, particularly her grandfather’s worsening Alzheimer’s disease. The novel explores themes of identity, socio-economic differences, and the bonds of family, all through the lens of a relatable and resilient young protagonist.

  15. 15. Dactyl Hill Squad by Daniel José Older

    "Dactyl Hill Squad" is an adventurous historical fiction novel set during the Civil War era. The story follows a group of young orphaned children who possess the ability to communicate with dinosaurs. When their home is attacked and their caretaker is kidnapped, they join a secret society of young rebels who ride dinosaurs to fight against the oppressive forces of the Confederacy. With their unique abilities and newfound allies, the children embark on a dangerous mission to rescue their friend and bring justice to their war-torn world.

  16. 16. The Ropemaker by Peter Dickinson

    "The Ropemaker" by Peter Dickinson is a fantasy novel set in a world where magic is dying and the land is threatened by a dark force known as the Shadow. When a young girl named Tilja is sent on a quest to find the Ropemaker, the only person who can save their world, she must navigate through treacherous landscapes and face dangerous obstacles. Along the way, she meets a group of unlikely allies who join her on her journey and help her to uncover the truth about the Ropemaker and the Shadow. As they race against time to save their world, they realize that the true power of magic lies within themselves.

  17. 17. Summerland by Michael Chabon

    "Summerland" is a young adult fantasy novel by Michael Chabon that follows the story of Ethan Feld, a young boy living in Clam Island who is recruited by a group of magical creatures to save their world from destruction. Along the way, Ethan teams up with a motley crew of characters, including a Sasquatch, a mermaid, and a baseball-playing angel, as they embark on a wild adventure across the mystical lands of Summerland. As they race against time to prevent the evil Coyote from destroying Summerland and Earth, Ethan learns valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and the power of imagination.

  18. 18. Corbenic by Catherine Fisher

    "Corbenic" by Catherine Fisher is a modern retelling of the Arthurian legend that follows the story of Cal, a troubled teenager who discovers a hidden world of magic and chivalry. Cal is drawn to the mysterious Corbenic, a castle that is said to hold the Holy Grail, and becomes entangled in a quest to find it. Along the way, he meets a cast of characters including a knight, a princess, and a sorceress, and must confront his own inner demons as he searches for the Grail. The novel explores themes of love, redemption, and the power of myth and legend.

  19. 19. Doll Bones by Holly Black

    "Doll Bones" by Holly Black is a story about three friends, Zach, Poppy, and Alice, who embark on a journey to bury a haunted doll that they believe is controlling their lives. Along the way, they encounter various challenges and obstacles that test their friendship and force them to confront their fears. As they delve deeper into the mystery surrounding the doll, they begin to uncover secrets about themselves and their families. Ultimately, they must face their fears and find the courage to do what is right, even if it means facing the unknown.

  20. 20. Root Magic by Eden Royce

    "Root Magic" is a middle-grade novel set in the 1960s in the Gullah community of South Carolina. The story follows twins Jezebel and Jay as they navigate their family's legacy of root magic, a form of African American folk magic. When their grandmother, who was the family's root worker, dies, they must learn to harness their own magical abilities to protect their family and community from a dangerous outsider who threatens to destroy their way of life. Along the way, they discover the power of family, friendship, and their ancestral heritage.

  21. 21. Flora's Dare by Ysabeau S. Wilce

    This book is a captivating fantasy novel that follows the adventures of a young girl living in an alternate version of America, where magic and military prowess dictate social standing. The protagonist, a spirited and rebellious teenager, embarks on a daring quest to rescue her kidnapped friend, facing off against formidable magicians and exploring her own burgeoning magical abilities. Along the way, she uncovers secrets about her family's past and the true extent of her powers, all while navigating the complexities of adolescence. With its richly imagined world, dynamic characters, and a blend of humor and heart, this story is a thrilling and enchanting read for young adults and anyone who enjoys a good magical adventure.

  22. 22. The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland In A Ship Of Her Own Making by Catherynne M. Valente

    This enchanting novel follows the adventures of a young girl named September, who is spirited away from her mundane life in Omaha to the magical realm of Fairyland. There, she embarks on a quest that sees her navigating a world filled with strange and whimsical creatures, including witches, wyverns, and marids. Her mission is to retrieve a talisman from the fearsome Marquess, a journey that will test her courage, wisdom, and heart. Along the way, she must navigate the complexities of friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice, all while captaining a living ship made of her own dreams and determination. This story is a rich tapestry of fantasy and fairy tale, weaving together themes of growing up, the power of imagination, and the importance of finding one's own path.

  23. 23. Ruby Finley Vs. The Interstellar Invasion by K. Tempest Bradford

    In this captivating science fiction adventure, readers are introduced to Ruby Finley, a young girl whose life takes an extraordinary turn when she encounters a group of aliens. These aren't your typical extraterrestrial visitors; they're on the run and in desperate need of Ruby's help to save their planet from an impending interstellar invasion. As Ruby embarks on this unexpected journey, she discovers her own inner strength and the true value of friendship and courage. Set against a backdrop of cosmic battles and intergalactic intrigue, this story combines elements of fantasy and science fiction to explore themes of resilience, diversity, and the importance of standing up for what's right, making it a thrilling read for young adventurers.

Reading Statistics

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If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

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