Teen Books for the Adult Soul

Ever think teen fiction is too young for you? Here at CPL, no bookworm is too old or too young to read

whatever they desire. Age is truly just a number, and there is so much to learn from teen books as an adult. Themes and current events are handled with honesty and excitement in teen novels that sometimes become convoluted in adult fiction. It’s easy to understand why we’re drawn to their quirky covers. So, check out that book you suggested to a friend’s kid for yourself, and reap the benefits of the relaxing, profound genre that is teen fiction.

The individual voices of Audre and Mabel in The Stars and the Blackness Between Them create an engrossing love story between two young Black women. Read this coming of age story if you're looking for a tearjerker with powerful protagonists. 

Emoni is a mom who is balancing it all in With the Fire on High. The epitome of an ambitious woman who could care less what you think about her, Emoni possesses culinary talent that will make you want to get into the kitchen and start cooking. If you're looking for a strong female lead, this book is for you.

Fox’s novel embodies how painful, exhausting, and uncontrollable depression can be. The visibility of mental health in How It Feels to Float makes it worth the read.

Young queers exploring sexuality in the safety of an LGBTQ Camp—what more could you ask for? This quirky tale explores the pain of altering ourselves for someone else. Musical numbers, camp games, and glitter, oh my!

A graphic novel, who me?! Graphic novels are token teen books, but in reality are a super fun way to experience a story. Dancing at the Pity Party is the prime example of an author making something meaningful out of grief. Written and illustrated by a Chicago native, this graphic novel allows you to unbind yourself from the stereotypes of grief and feel your feelings.