The year 2016 was an exceptional year for teen literature, offering a diverse array of novels that ranged from heart-wrenching tales of love and loss to epic fantasies brimming with magic and adventure. For many young readers, these books have served as windows into the nuanced experiences of adolescence, providing solace, excitement, and a deep connection to fictional characters who feel startlingly real. As we take a stroll down memory lane, let’s take a look at the top ten teen books of 2016 that have captured the hearts and imaginations of young adults. Whether you’re a voracious reader or simply looking for your next favorite book, this list has something for everyone.
#10: “The Sun Is Also a Star” by Nicola Yoon
Kicking off our list is “The Sun Is Also a Star” by Nicola Yoon. This poignant novel follows Natasha, a girl who loves science and facts, and Daniel, a dreamer and poet, as they meet and fall in love over the course of a single day in New York City. With a deportation hanging over Natasha’s head, their time together is running out, but they are determined to truly live and love despite the uncertainties of the universe. Yoon’s writing captures the urgency and beauty of young love, making this book impossible to put down.
#9: “This Savage Song” by Victoria Schwab
Victoria Schwab’s “This Savage Song” introduces readers to a world where violence breeds actual monsters. In the city of Verity, August Flynn and Kate Harker come from opposite sides in a war-torn metropolis. August yearns to be human, while Kate wants to prove she’s as ruthless as her father. Their paths intertwine in a story that’s equal parts thrilling and thought-provoking, questioning the true nature of humanity and monsterhood alike.
#8: “Salt to the Sea” by Ruta Sepetys
Ruta Sepetys is known for her historical fiction, and “Salt to the Sea” is a stunning portrayal of one of World War II’s greatest maritime tragedies. The novel follows four distinct voices: Joana, Emilia, Florian, and Alfred, each from different homelands and with their secrets, as they fight for survival and salvation during the ill-fated journey of the Wilhelm Gustloff. Sepetys’ skillful writing brings to light this overlooked event in history with empathy and grace, making it a must-read for teens and adults alike.
#7: “The Unexpected Everything” by Morgan Matson
“The Unexpected Everything” by Morgan Matson is a summery contemporary that explores the life of Andie, a politician’s daughter who has her summer and future perfectly planned out. However, when a scandal causes her pre-med internship to fall through, she finds herself walking an unruly dog and facing a very unplanned season full of unexpected romance and self-discovery. Matson captures the confusion and possibility of teenage years with humor and heart in this breezy read.
#6: “A Court of Mist and Fury” by Sarah J. Maas
The second book in Sarah J. Maas’s “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series, “A Court of Mist and Fury,” turns the original story’s narrative on its head. After surviving the terrible trials under the mountain, Feyre struggles with her new life, powers, and the emotional and physical scars of her ordeal. Exploring themes of healing, personal growth, and resilience, this fantasy novel is a passionate, action-packed saga that gripped readers, leaving them yearning for more.
#5: “Lady Midnight” by Cassandra Clare
In “Lady Midnight,” Cassandra Clare takes us back to the beloved world of the Shadowhunters. As the first installment of “The Dark Artifices” trilogy, we follow Emma Carstairs and her parabatai, Julian Blackthorn, in a gripping tale full of mystery, magic, and romance. Set in Los Angeles, the narrative weaves together a series of murders with the complex dynamics of love and family. Clare’s trademark blend of urban fantasy and intricate storytelling ensures this book earns its place among the year’s best.
#4: “The Serpent King” by Jeff Zentner
“The Serpent King” by Jeff Zentner is a stirring contemporary novel that deals with friendship, faith, and finding your path. It tells the story of three friends in small-town Tennessee – Dill, Lydia, and Travis, each battling their circumstances and trying to envision a life beyond the constraints of their environment. Zentner’s evocative prose captures the profound pain and soaring hope of adolescence, earning widespread praise for its honest and moving depiction of youth.
#3: “Heartless” by Marissa Meyer
Marissa Meyer, renowned for her “Lunar Chronicles” series, weaves another compelling tale in “Heartless,” a prequel to Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” This inventive retelling centers around Catherine, a young woman who wishes to open her bakery but finds herself the object of affection of the King of Hearts. Readers are taken on a whimsical and heartrending journey as they discover what turned the sweet Cath into the notorious Queen of Hearts.
#2: “Crooked Kingdom” by Leigh Bardugo
Leigh Bardugo’s “Crooked Kingdom” is the highly anticipated sequel to “Six of Crows.” Set in the Grishaverse, it follows Kaz Brekker and his crew as they navigate the treacherous waters of Ketterdam’s criminal underworld. In this tale of deception, survival, and the quest for vengeance, Bardugo’s knack for world-building and character development truly shines through. Rich and complex, this novel demonstrates why Bardugo is considered a master of YA fantasy.
#1: “Empire of Storms” by Sarah J. Maas
The “Throne of Glass” series continued to captivate its audience with “Empire of Storms,” the fifth book released in 2016 by Sarah J. Maas. This installment ratchets up the epic scale as Aelin Galathynius, once known as the notorious assassin Celaena Sardothien, fights to reclaim her throne and save her world from dark forces. Combining intense action, swoon-worthy romance, and spellbinding magic, “Empire of Storms” holds its place at the top of our list, showcasing Maas’s exceptional ability to weave a gripping, multifaceted narrative.
Each book on this list reflects the rich tapestry of young adult literature in 2016—stories of growth, challenge, fantasy, and the realities of life intermingle to provide a breathtaking escape for teen readers. No matter the genre or theme, these novels make clear why YA fiction remains a vital part of the literary world, resonating with readers well beyond their teenage years. As these books prove, whether you’re looking for an enthralling fantasy, a historical adventure, or a contemporary story that pulls at your heartstrings, there’s no shortage of excellent writing designed to speak to the teen experience.