For a generation that grew up with TikTok, social movements, and a pandemic reshaping their teenage years, it’s no surprise that Gen Z gravitates toward books that blend deeply personal storytelling with themes of resilience, identity, and social justice. These are readers who value authenticity, diversity, and characters that feel real, making certain young adult (YA) books resonate on a level that elevates them to modern classics. If you're curious about what Gen Z loves to read—or want to check out the stories shaping their worldviews—we’ve rounded up some YA favorites that are quickly becoming staples for this connected, thoughtful generation.

1. They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera

This heart-wrenching yet uplifting tale has taken social media by storm, giving it cult status among Gen Z. Set in a world where people know their "Death Day," Mateo and Rufus meet for the first time during their final 24 hours. Their unlikely connection sparks a whirlwind of emotions as they discover love, friendship, and what it means to really live.

Why Gen Z Loves It:

The raw exploration of mortality, making the most of the moment, and (literally) dying on your own terms strikes a deep chord. Add a diverse cast and a story that doesn’t shy away from vulnerability, and you’ve got a recipe for a modern-day classic. It’s also a top pick for #BookTok users who thrive on emotional rollercoasters.

2. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

Fantasy has always been a YA powerhouse, but ACOTAR has carved out a unique space in Gen Z’s bookish hearts. This high-fantasy epic starts with Feyre, a human girl, being thrust into a fae realm after accidentally killing a faerie. What begins as a Beauty and the Beast-style romance spirals into a tale of political intrigue, steamy romance, and high-stakes battles.

Why Gen Z Loves It:

Feyre’s transformation from an ordinary girl to a warrior fighting for her loved ones mirrors Gen Z’s value of self-discovery and empowerment. The intricate world-building, morally complex characters, and Maas’s knack for writing epic romance give readers all the escapism they crave.

3. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

This groundbreaking novel confronts systemic racism and police brutality through the lens of Starr Carter, a 16-year-old girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her best friend by a police officer. Starr’s struggle to find her voice and fight for justice has cemented this book as a Gen Z masterpiece.

Why Gen Z Loves It:

It’s bold, fearless, and authentic, addressing topics that are deeply relevant to this generation. Gen Z is highly attuned to activism and social change, and Starr's resilience and courage resonate deeply. It’s more than just a book; it’s a call to action.

4. One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus

Dubbed “The Breakfast Club meets murder mystery,” this twist-filled thriller follows five high school students who walk into detention, but only four make it out alive. The story keeps readers guessing as secrets unravel, and the truth about what happened that day comes to light.

Why Gen Z Loves It:

The fast-paced story, addictive writing, and juicy drama make it perfect for binge-reading. But it’s not just entertainment; the book also dives into themes of stereotypes, peer pressure, and the complexity of teen life, reflecting the pressures Gen Z feels to balance identity with expectation.

5. Concrete Rose by Angie Thomas

This prequel to The Hate U Give centers on Maverick Carter, Starr’s father, as a 17-year-old navigating life in Garden Heights. When Maverick unexpectedly becomes a teen dad, he must juggle family, loyalty, and responsibility to carve out a better future for his son.

Why Gen Z Loves It:

Gen Z consistently pushes for stories about redemption, growth, and breaking cycles, and Maverick’s raw yet hopeful story is a perfect fit. It’s a compassionate exploration of masculinity and fatherhood that resonates across backgrounds, making it a universal favorite.

6. Ace of Spades by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé

This gripping thriller set at an elite private school combines social commentary with a razor-sharp plot. The story follows Devon and Chiamaka, two students who are targeted by an anonymous bully with sinister motives, uncovering dangerous secrets along the way.

Why Gen Z Loves It:

Often called “Get Out meets Gossip Girl,” this book speaks directly to issues of privilege, race, and systemic power while keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Gen Z connects with its sharp critique of institutions that perpetuate inequality, alongside its unapologetic attitude.

7. We Hunt the Flame by Hafsah Faizal

Set in a lush, Arabian-inspired fantasy world, this debut follows Zafira, a huntress masquerading as a man, and Nasir, a deadly assassin, on a perilous quest to save their kingdom. Packed with intrigue, slow-burn romance, and stunning prose, this is the kind of fantasy that lingers with you long after you’ve read it.

Why Gen Z Loves It:

This generation embraces diverse voices and settings, and Faizal’s rich storytelling delivers both. The themes of identity, sacrifice, and courage in the face of impossible odds align with Gen Z’s desire for stories of resilience and representation.

8. Radio Silence by Alice Oseman

Alice Oseman’s relatable, heartwarming, yet bittersweet novel follows Frances, an overachieving student, and Aled, the shy creator of a viral podcast. Together, they find solace in their friendship while questioning the pressures of academic success and societal expectations.

Why Gen Z Loves It:

Gen Z understands the mental health struggles, academic stress, and search for authenticity that Oseman captures so well. The book’s celebration of platonic friendship and its inclusivity (aces, introverts, and creatives, rejoice!) make it a beloved mirror of Gen Z’s most pressing concerns.

9. Legendborn by Tracy Deonn

This fresh twist on Arthurian legend brings fierce magic and Southern Black culture to the forefront. When Bree Matthews discovers a secret society of magic users, she uncovers hidden truths about her lineage and her late mother’s mysterious death.

Why Gen Z Loves It:

Legendborn blends action, history, and emotional depth in a way that feels both fresh and timeless. Bree’s fight to claim her identity and rewrite her family’s history aligns with Gen Z’s passion for challenging systemic inequalities, making it a standout modern fantasy.

10. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller

Though technically crossover fiction, Miller’s retelling of the love between Patroclus and Achilles has found a massive audience among Gen Z readers. This lyrical reimagining of Greek mythology explores love, destiny, and sacrifice with raw passion and beauty.

Why Gen Z Loves It:

The tragic, tender relationship between the main characters hits all the emotional notes Gen Z craves. Themes of queerness, loyalty, and defiance resonate on a deeply emotional level, making this an enduring favorite and a TikTok staple.

Why Gen Z is Shaping the Next Literary Canon

Unlike older generations, Gen Z doesn’t see books as just stories; they see them as movements, a reflection of the world they want to build. Whether it’s tackling systemic change in The Hate U Give, finding a way to thrive in impossible circumstances like in We Hunt the Flame, or uncovering truths like in Ace of Spades, these books echo the values this generation holds most dear.