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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read for a 17-year-old or perhaps you are one yourself, looking to dive into new literary worlds? Finding the right books for 17-year-olds can be a thrilling adventure, as the options are as diverse and dynamic as the readers themselves. Whether you're in the mood for a gripping tale that mirrors the rollercoaster of being 17 or a story that transports you to fantastical realms, the right book is just waiting to be discovered. Keep reading to explore our curated lists of books that are sure to resonate with young adults on the brink of adulthood.

Fun Books for 17-Year-Olds

• The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the heart-wrenching story of Hazel Grace Lancaster and Augustus Waters, two teenagers who meet at a cancer support group and embark on a profound journey together.
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles complex themes like mortality and love with humor and honesty, making it a deeply emotional read that resonates with young adults.
  • Perfect for: Teens looking for a touching story that's both realistic and poignant.

• 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: With its relatable characters and emotionally charged narrative, it captures the essence of young love and the struggles of fitting in.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy heartfelt, nostalgic, and character-driven stories.

• The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Coming-of-Age, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Through letters to an anonymous stranger, introverted high school freshman Charlie navigates the complex worlds of friendship, family, love, and mental health.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a moving tale that speaks directly to the uncertainties and excitements of adolescence, encouraging empathy and self-discovery.
  • Perfect for: Teens who feel like outsiders and those who appreciate deep, introspective narratives.

• Looking for Alaska by John Green
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Fiction, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: Miles "Pudge" Halter attends Culver Creek Boarding School where he meets Alaska Young. The book explores their deep friendship and the unexpected events that unfold.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a profound exploration of life's big questions through the lens of young adults, which can be both entertaining and enlightening for teen readers.
  • Perfect for: Young adults who enjoy stories that mix humor, tragedy, and philosophical questions.

• Cinder by Marissa Meyer
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Fantasy, Science Fiction, Romance
  • Synopsis: In this futuristic retelling of Cinderella, Cinder is a cyborg mechanic who becomes entangled in political intrigue and a forbidden romance.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fresh take on a classic fairy tale, blending elements of science fiction with romance in a way that's both fun and thought-provoking.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love retellings of classic stories with a modern, fantastical twist.

Educational Books for 17-Year-Olds

• 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 why our species succeeded in the battle for dominance.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, understanding of human history, scientific inquiry
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a compelling overview of human history, combining science, history, and philosophy in an accessible and engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds interested in the evolution of human societies and the factors that have shaped the modern world.

• How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Business, Communication
  • Synopsis: This classic book offers timeless advice on building relationships, influencing others, and achieving personal and professional success.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Interpersonal skills, communication, leadership
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a foundational text for understanding the art of persuasion and developing effective communication skills that are essential in all areas of life.
  • Perfect for: Teens looking to improve their social skills and gain confidence in personal and professional interactions.

• A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Science, Astronomy
  • Synopsis: Stephen Hawking explains complex concepts like space, black holes, and the universe in language accessible to the general reader, discussing the structure, origin, development, and eventual fate of the universe.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific understanding, critical thinking, conceptual comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes complex scientific ideas accessible and engaging, sparking curiosity about the universe and our place in it.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists and anyone interested in the mysteries of the cosmos.

• Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
  • Genre(s): Psychology, Non-fiction, Business
  • Synopsis: Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman explores how our minds work, detailing the two systems that drive our thought processes: the fast, intuitive, and emotional system, and the slower, more deliberative, and more logical system.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Decision-making, critical thinking, psychology
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers deep insights into how decisions are made and the psychological processes that guide our daily lives.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in psychology and improving their decision-making skills.

• The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Henrietta Lacks and the immortal cell line, known as HeLa, that came from Lacks' cervical cancer cells in 1951.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Ethical judgement, scientific literacy, historical awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It raises important questions about science and ethics, particularly regarding the intersection of race, poverty, and medical exploitation.
  • Perfect for: Students interested in science and ethics, or those who enjoy compelling stories that blend personal narrative with historical impact.

Challenging Books for 17-Year-Olds

• Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
  • Genre(s): Literary Fiction, Postmodernism
  • Synopsis: This sprawling novel centers around an addiction recovery center and a tennis academy, weaving together a complex narrative that explores themes of entertainment, addiction, and the complexities of human experience.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its length, extensive footnotes, and non-linear narrative structure make it a demanding read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a deep dive into modern American life with rich, intricate storytelling that rewards patient and thoughtful readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a challenging read that pushes the boundaries of traditional narrative structures.

• Ulysses by James Joyce
  • Genre(s): Modernist Literature
  • Synopsis: This novel details the passage of Leopold Bloom through Dublin during an ordinary day, June 16, 1904. The book parallels Homer's epic, "The Odyssey," with its complex stream-of-consciousness technique and rich characterizations.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its stream-of-consciousness narrative, dense allusions, and lack of traditional structure make it notoriously difficult to navigate.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's considered one of the most important works of modernist literature, offering a revolutionary approach to storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Literature enthusiasts who appreciate deep literary analysis and are up for a substantial reading challenge.

• Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Postmodernism
  • Synopsis: Set during World War II, this complex novel explores the design, production, and dispatch of V-2 rockets by the German military. Through its sprawling narrative, it delves into themes such as technology, paranoia, and the destruction of war.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its complex plot, multitude of characters, and frequent diversions into scientific and philosophical discourse present a formidable challenge.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a masterful blend of historical detail and speculative science, offering a unique and intellectually stimulating experience.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy complex narratives and are interested in history and science.

• The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Genre(s): Philosophy, Crime, Drama
  • Synopsis: This novel revolves around the tumultuous lives of the Karamazov family and explores deep philosophical questions about God, free will, and morality.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its deep philosophical discussions and complex characters require careful and reflective reading.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides profound insights into human nature and moral dilemmas, making it a timeless piece of literature.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in philosophy and classic literature that challenges both intellect and emotions.

• War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Philosophy
  • Synopsis: This epic novel tells the story of Russian society during the Napoleonic Wars, focusing on four aristocratic families.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its vast scope, large cast of characters, and detailed depiction of Russian life and history make it a lengthy and demanding read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a sweeping view of human life, war, and peace, painted on a vast historical canvas.
  • Perfect for: Those who appreciate historical depth and philosophical pondering in their reading choices.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're 17 and looking to build or improve your reading habits, you're in the right place. Here are some fun and effective exercises designed just for you. These will not only enhance your reading skills but also make the process enjoyable. Let's dive in!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of books or pages to read each week or month.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and motivated to read regularly.
  • Tips: Start with manageable goals and gradually increase them as you get more comfortable.

• Join a Book Club
  • What it is: Participate in a book club either online or in your community.
  • How it helps: Encourages you to read more and exposes you to different perspectives.
  • Tips: Choose a club that reads a variety of genres to broaden your horizons.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a comfortable, dedicated space at home for reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances your reading experience by making it more enjoyable and relaxing.
  • Tips: Include comfy seating, good lighting, and keep your favorite books close at hand.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize a digital app to track your reading habits and discover new books.
  • How it helps: Keeps you organized and introduces you to books you might not have found otherwise.
  • Tips: Try apps like Goodreads or Libby to get started.

• Read Across Genres
  • What it is: Make a conscious effort to read books from different genres.
  • How it helps: Broadens your understanding and appreciation of literature.
  • Tips: Rotate genres each month to keep things exciting and fresh.

• Summarize What You Read
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each book after you finish reading it.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries concise and reflect on what you learned from the book.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books you read with friends or family members.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding through discussion and can offer new insights.
  • Tips: Try to articulate not just what you liked, but why you liked it.

• Take Breaks
  • What it is: Allow yourself short breaks while reading, especially during longer sessions.
  • How it helps: Keeps you from getting overwhelmed and helps maintain your concentration.
  • Tips: Use a timer to remind yourself to take a 5-10 minute break every hour.

By incorporating these exercises into your routine, you'll not only develop stronger reading habits but also discover more about yourself and the world through books. Happy reading!