10+ Best Books for 17-Year-Old Boy w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect books for a 17-year-old boy? Whether he’s into thrilling adventures, gripping mysteries, or something entirely unique, finding the right book can be a game changer. In this blog, we’ve rounded up a diverse selection of books that are sure to captivate and inspire any 17-year-old reader. Keep reading to discover our top picks that cater specifically to the interests and challenges of teenage boys. Let’s dive in!

Fun Books for 17-Year-Old Boy

• The Martian by Andy Weir
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: An astronaut, Mark Watney, finds himself stranded on Mars and must rely on his ingenuity and scientific skills to survive until he can be rescued.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines real scientific principles with thrilling survival tactics in an alien environment, making it an engaging and educational read.
  • Perfect for: Science enthusiasts and anyone who loves a gripping survival story.

• Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Young Ender Wiggin is recruited into an elite military school in space to prepare for a future alien invasion.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling mix of action, strategy, and ethical dilemmas, providing both entertainment and material for reflection.
  • Perfect for: Strategy game lovers and readers who appreciate complex characters and moral questions.

• The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: The story follows a few days in the life of Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned teenager navigating his way through the challenges of adolescence in New York City.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its themes of teenage angst and alienation are timeless, resonating with young adults as they navigate their own journeys.
  • Perfect for: Teens who feel misunderstood and those who appreciate introspective narratives.

• Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a near-future dystopian society, teenager Wade Watts escapes from his bleak surroundings by logging into OASIS, a globally networked virtual utopia where users can lead idyllic alternate lives.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fast-paced adventure filled with 80s pop culture references and thrilling virtual reality experiences.
  • Perfect for: Gamers and anyone who loves pop culture and virtual reality.

• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
  • Genre(s): Dystopian, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: In a future American society where books are outlawed and "firemen" burn any that are found, fireman Guy Montag begins to question his role and the society's values.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful cautionary tale about censorship and the importance of independent thinking.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in politics and philosophy, and those who value freedom of expression.

• Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is sent to a camp for demigods where he embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an exciting introduction to Greek mythology, woven into modern adventure, making it both educational and highly entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Fans of mythology and action-packed adventures.

Educational Books for 17-Year-Old Boy

• Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book explores the history of humankind from the emergence of Homo sapiens in the Stone Age up to the twenty-first century, focusing on the ways in which biology and history have defined us and enhanced our understanding of what it means to be "human."
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, critical thinking, understanding of societal development
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a compelling overview of human history, packed with insightful analyses and thought-provoking perspectives on the development of human societies.
  • Perfect for: History buffs and anyone interested in the evolution of human societies and our impact on the world.

• A Short History of Nearly Everything by Bill Bryson
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Science, History
  • Synopsis: Bill Bryson attempts to understand and explain science to the general public by exploring the most significant events in the history of science, from the Big Bang to the rise of civilization.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific knowledge, curiosity about the natural world, understanding complex scientific concepts
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes the vast world of science accessible and entertaining, explaining complex subjects in a way that is both engaging and easy to understand.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who enjoy a blend of humor with their science and history.

• Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
  • Genre(s): Psychology, Non-Fiction, Self-Help
  • Synopsis: Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman explores the different ways our minds work, distinguishing between fast, intuitive thinking, and slower, more deliberate thought. This book reveals how our minds are tripped up by error and prejudice (even when we think we are being logical).
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, decision-making, psychological understanding
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers deep insights into how decisions are made, the biases that affect us, and how we can think more clearly and effectively.
  • Perfect for: Anyone interested in psychology and improving their cognitive skills.

• Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, History, Science
  • Synopsis: Jared Diamond examines the reasons why some societies have succeeded and dominated others by looking at environmental and geographical factors that have shaped the modern world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of historical patterns, environmental influence on societies, critical analysis
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a new perspective on the rise of civilizations and offers a convincing explanation of the broad patterns that have shaped human history.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy interdisciplinary approaches to history and science.

• Astrophysics for Young People in a Hurry by Neil deGrasse Tyson
  • Genre(s): Science, Astrophysics, Non-Fiction
  • Synopsis: Adapted from his bestselling book for adults, this version provides young readers with an accessible and entertaining introduction to the fundamentals of astrophysics.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Basic astrophysics, scientific literacy, curiosity about the universe
  • Why we recommend this book: It distills complex ideas into clear, understandable concepts and sparks curiosity about the universe in a concise and engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in science and the mysteries of space.

Challenging Books for 17-Year-Old Boy

• Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
  • Genre(s): Literary Fiction, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: This sprawling novel centers around an addiction recovery center and a tennis academy, weaving together a complex narrative that explores themes of addiction, entertainment, and the pursuit of happiness in America.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel's intricate narrative structure, extensive endnotes, and dense prose demand significant attention and analytical skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound exploration of modern American life with rich, multi-layered themes and dark humor that encourages deep reflection and critical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a substantial literary challenge and those interested in deep, philosophical questions about society and self.

• Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Postmodern
  • Synopsis: Set during the final months of World War II in Europe, the novel follows several characters, including Tyrone Slothrop, whose sexual exploits appear to predict the V-2 rocket strikes.
  • Why this book is challenging: Pynchon's complex narrative style, including a vast array of characters, scientific and metaphysical digressions, and a non-linear storyline, makes it a demanding read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique blend of historical insights, scientific theory, and cultural critique, all delivered in a richly poetic yet challenging prose style.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy puzzles and complex narratives with a blend of history and speculative science.

• Ulysses by James Joyce
  • Genre(s): Modernist, Literary Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel details the peripatetic appointments and encounters of Leopold Bloom in Dublin over the course of an ordinary day, 16 June 1904.
  • Why this book is challenging: Joyce's stream-of-consciousness writing style, classical and literary allusions, and richly detailed characterizations create a dense and labyrinthine narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's considered one of the most important works of modernist literature, offering revolutionary narrative techniques and deep human insights.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in a deep dive into character psychology and those who appreciate literary innovation.

• The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Genre(s): Philosophical Novel, Crime Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel revolves around the murder of Fyodor Pavlovich Karamazov and the subsequent trial of his sons, exploring themes of faith, doubt, and morality.
  • Why this book is challenging: The deep philosophical discourse interwoven with a complex narrative structure requires thoughtful engagement and contemplation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound philosophical and psychological inquiry into faith, doubt, and the nature of justice, offering readers a chance to explore deep ethical questions.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in philosophy, ethics, and psychology, and readers who enjoy deep, narrative-driven explorations of human nature.

• Blood Meridian by Cormac McCarthy
  • Genre(s): Western, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The novel follows a teenage runaway known as "the Kid" and his encounters with a violent scalp-hunter named Judge Holden, exploring themes of violence and manifest destiny in the American West.
  • Why this book is challenging: McCarthy's sparse punctuation, esoteric vocabulary, and the novel's brutal and unrelenting depiction of violence make it a tough but rewarding read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a stark, poetic vision of the American frontier, challenging readers to confront the myths of the Old West and the nature of violence and evil.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in American history and literature, and those who appreciate stark, powerful prose exploring complex themes.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're a 17-year-old guy or know someone who is, getting into the habit of reading can be a game-changer. It's not just about acing your literature class; it's about exploring new worlds, ideas, and experiences. Here are some exercises designed to help you develop good reading habits that stick:

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of books or pages to read each week or month.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and creates a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Start with manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Enhances focus and makes your reading sessions more enjoyable.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and free from distractions.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a book club either locally or online.
  • How it helps: Encourages you to read more and exposes you to different perspectives.
  • Tips: Try to contribute to discussions to get the most out of the experience.

• Use Technology to Your Advantage
  • What it is: Utilize e-readers, reading apps, or audiobooks to read.
  • How it helps: Makes reading more accessible and convenient.
  • Tips: Explore different formats to find what works best for you.

• Read Broadly
  • What it is: Make a conscious effort to read books from various genres and authors.
  • How it helps: Expands your understanding and appreciation of different narratives and styles.
  • Tips: Rotate between fiction, non-fiction, fantasy, science fiction, and other genres.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes from your readings.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of progress.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day.

• Schedule Daily Reading Times
  • What it is: Set aside a specific time each day dedicated solely to reading.
  • How it helps: Builds a strong, consistent reading habit.
  • Tips: Even 20 minutes a day can make a big difference.

• Challenge Yourself with Reading Challenges
  • What it is: Participate in or create personal reading challenges.
  • How it helps: Pushes you to read more and often outside your comfort zone.
  • Tips: Use websites like Goodreads to track your progress and find new challenges.

Developing good reading habits can truly transform your life, offering not just academic benefits but also personal growth and enjoyment. Each of these exercises is a step towards becoming a more engaged, knowledgeable, and versatile reader. So, grab a book and start exploring today! Happy reading!