10+ Best Books for 16-18-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for a teen reader? Finding engaging and relatable books for 16-18-year-olds can seem daunting, but don't worry—we've got you covered! Whether you're a young adult diving into the world of literature or a parent seeking the best picks for your teenager, our curated lists cater to diverse interests and tastes. Keep reading to discover a treasure trove of books that will captivate and inspire readers in this age group.

Fun Books for 16-18-Year-Olds

• The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: The story follows Hazel Grace Lancaster, a sixteen-year-old cancer patient who reluctantly attends a support group where she meets and falls in love with Augustus Waters, a former basketball player and amputee.
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles heavy themes with humor and honesty, providing a raw and real perspective on life and love that resonates with young adults.
  • Perfect for: Teens looking for a heartfelt, thought-provoking story that explores life's tough questions.

• Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: A thrilling heist narrative following a band of outcasts led by the cunning criminal prodigy, Kaz Brekker, as they attempt an impossible heist that could make them wealthy beyond their wildest dreams.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fast-paced, complex, and character-driven story that offers excitement and a deep dive into strategic minds.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love intricate plots, ensemble casts, and rich world-building.

• Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: Set over the course of one school year in 1986, this is the story of two star-crossed misfits—smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the exhilaration of first love and the challenges of teenage life with authenticity and heart.
  • Perfect for: Anyone who enjoys realistic, heartfelt stories about love and personal growth.

• The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Coming-of-Age, Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel takes the form of letters written by Charlie, a shy and introspective teen, to an anonymous friend, and explores his struggles with friendship, first love, and mental health as he navigates his freshman year of high school.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a poignant and insightful look into adolescent life, dealing with complex issues that resonate with many teens today.
  • Perfect for: Teens and young adults who feel like outsiders and anyone dealing with mental health issues.

• Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, LGBT, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: The story of two Mexican-American boys, Aristotle and Dante, who develop a deep friendship that evolves into a tender love story as they discover important truths about themselves and each other.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully explores themes of identity, friendship, and love through the lens of adolescent discovery and acceptance.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a moving LGBTQ+ love story and those interested in poetic, thought-provoking narratives.

Educational Books for 16-18-Year-Olds

• Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book offers a compelling overview of the history of humankind, from the emergence of Homo sapiens in the Stone Age up to the twenty-first century, focusing on why our species succeeded in the battle for dominance.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, critical thinking, understanding of human evolution and societal development
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a fascinating insight into the factors that have shaped human societies throughout history, using a scientific perspective that is both accessible and thought-provoking.
  • Perfect for: Students interested in history, anthropology, and the scientific factors that influence human society.

• How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Business, Communication
  • Synopsis: This classic book offers timeless advice on how to make people like you, win people over to your way of thinking, and change people without causing offense or arousing resentment.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Interpersonal skills, communication, leadership
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a foundational text for anyone looking to improve their personal and professional relationships through proven psychological techniques.
  • Perfect for: Young adults preparing for the workforce or wanting to enhance their social and leadership skills.

• Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
  • Genre(s): Psychology, Non-fiction, Science
  • Synopsis: Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman explores the ways in which we think, revealing where we can and cannot trust our intuitions and how we can tap into the benefits of slow thinking.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, decision-making, understanding of cognitive biases
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers deep insights into the cognitive processes that govern our behavior in business, health, and our personal lives.
  • Perfect for: Students of psychology, as well as anyone interested in understanding how their mind works and how to make better decisions.

• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Henrietta Lacks, whose cells were taken without her knowledge in 1951 and led to significant scientific breakthroughs, touching on issues of ethics, race, and the intersection of science and personal rights.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Ethical reasoning, scientific understanding, historical awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling mix of biography and science that brings to light important ethical issues in scientific research.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in medical science, ethics, and the history of scientific discovery.

• Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, History, Science
  • Synopsis: Diamond examines the reasons why Western civilizations have survived and conquered others, arguing that geographical and environmental factors shaped the modern world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical analysis, understanding of global patterns, environmental science
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a groundbreaking look at the influence of geography on the course of human history.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy analyzing the factors that have shaped human history and the role of environment in societal development.

Challenging Books for 16-18-Year-Olds

• 1984 by George Orwell
  • Genre(s): Dystopian, Political Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in a totalitarian future, George Orwell's 1984 follows Winston Smith, a low-ranking member of the ruling Party in London, in a grim world where the government controls everything and suppresses independent thinking.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into complex themes of surveillance, individuality, and political manipulation, layered with dense political theory and bleak prognostications.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a critical examination of totalitarianism and the extremes of ideological control, which remains profoundly relevant today.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in politics, history, and thought-provoking dystopian themes.

• Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Genre(s): Psychological Fiction, Philosophical Novel
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Raskolnikov, a destitute and desperate former student who wanders through the slums of St. Petersburg and commits a random murder without remorse or regret, imagining himself to be a great man who is permitted to transgress moral law.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores deep psychological and moral issues, requiring readers to grapple with complex emotions and philosophical questions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a profound exploration of morality, guilt, and redemption, encouraging deep ethical and existential contemplation.
  • Perfect for: Those who enjoy deep psychological character studies and moral dilemmas.

• War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Philosophical Novel
  • Synopsis: This epic novel by Leo Tolstoy delves into the lives of five aristocratic families in Russia during the Napoleonic Wars, exploring a broad spectrum of human emotions and behaviors as they manifest in a time of crisis and change.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its sheer length, a large cast of characters, and the integration of complex historical detail and philosophical discourse make it a demanding read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a monumental and sweeping saga that provides profound insights into human nature and society.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are not intimidated by length and complexity and have a keen interest in history and philosophy.

• The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Genre(s): Philosophical Novel, Crime Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel revolves around the tumultuous lives of the Karamazov family and their internal conflicts, ultimately leading to the murder of their own father.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles deep philosophical questions about faith, doubt, and morality interwoven with a complex narrative structure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines a gripping plot with stimulating philosophical debates, offering both a thrilling and intellectually rewarding experience.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate deep philosophical inquiry and complex narratives.

• Les Misérables by Victor Hugo
  • Genre(s): Historical Novel, Epic Novel
  • Synopsis: This sprawling epic covers the lives of several characters over several decades in the 19th century France, focusing on the struggles of ex-convict Jean Valjean and his experience of redemption.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents a vast and detailed narrative, including historical context, social commentary, and lengthy philosophical discussions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound moral and philosophical discussion woven into a compelling narrative of love, justice, and humanity.
  • Perfect for: Those who are passionate about history, social justice, and epic storytelling.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're between the ages of 16 and 18, you might be looking for ways to enhance your reading habits. Good reading habits not only improve your comprehension and analytical skills but also open up a world of knowledge and imagination. Here are some exercises designed to help you develop and maintain strong reading habits:

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of books to read each month or year.
  • How it helps: Setting goals can motivate you to read regularly and track your progress.
  • Tips: Choose realistic goals based on your schedule and interests.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: A dedicated space can enhance concentration and make your reading sessions more enjoyable.
  • Tips: Ensure your reading area is quiet, comfortable, and free from distractions.

• Join or Start a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a group that reads and discusses books on a regular basis.
  • How it helps: Engaging in discussions can deepen your understanding and enhance your critical thinking skills.
  • Tips: Try to find or start a club that reads books from various genres to broaden your horizons.

• Use Technology to Your Advantage
  • What it is: Utilize apps and devices designed for reading and organizing your books.
  • How it helps: Technology can make reading more accessible and help you manage your reading list efficiently.
  • Tips: Explore different e-reader apps and find one that suits your reading style.

• Read Broadly
  • What it is: Make a conscious effort to read books from a variety of genres and authors.
  • How it helps: This exposes you to different writing styles, cultures, and perspectives, enhancing empathy and knowledge.
  • Tips: Periodically check book lists and recommendations in genres you usually don't explore.

• Reflect on What You Read
  • What it is: Spend some time thinking about the book after you finish it.
  • How it helps: Reflection helps you connect with the material on a deeper level and improves memory retention.
  • Tips: Write a brief summary or discuss the book with friends to solidify your understanding.

• Schedule Regular Reading Times
  • What it is: Set aside specific times each day or week exclusively for reading.
  • How it helps: Regularity turns reading into a habit rather than a chore.
  • Tips: Consider reading at times when you are most alert and relaxed.

These exercises are not just about reading more but reading better. By incorporating these habits into your routine, you'll not only improve your ability to comprehend and analyze texts but also enjoy the process more. So grab a book, find your favorite spot, and start your journey into the wonderful world of reading!