10+ Best Clean Books for 15-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for clean books for 15-year-olds that are both engaging and appropriate? Finding the right reads for teens can be a bit of a balancing act, but don't worry—we've got you covered! In this article, we've curated a variety of lists packed with great options that are perfect for young readers. Whether you're a parent, a guardian, or a teenager yourself, keep reading to discover some fantastic books that are as enriching as they are entertaining.

Fun Clean Books for 15-Year-Olds

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a seemingly perfect community without suffering, choice, or pain, twelve-year-old Jonas is selected to inherit the position of Receiver of Memories. He learns the dark secrets behind his fragile community.
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges readers to think about the importance of emotions, memories, and individuality in a conformist society.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in thought-provoking stories and ethical dilemmas.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to a boys' detention center where they are tasked with digging holes daily. The story uncovers the reason behind the digging and explores themes of fate and justice.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a unique blend of an intriguing mystery and a survival story that also touches on historical events, making it both educational and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Teens who enjoy stories with complex plots and a mix of humor and adventure.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: An imaginative and talkative girl named Anne Shirley is mistakenly sent to live with two elderly siblings in Prince Edward Island. The novel follows her adventures and growth into a young woman.
  • Why we recommend this book: Anne's vibrant personality and the rich descriptions of her rural life offer a delightful reading experience and a positive outlook on life.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love character-driven stories and exploring themes of growth and belonging.

• Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is the son of Poseidon and is accused of stealing Zeus' lightning bolt. He must embark on a quest to find the real thief and prevent a war among the Greek gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines Greek mythology with modern adventure, making ancient stories accessible and exciting for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Fans of mythology, adventure seekers, and anyone who enjoys fast-paced, action-packed stories.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story of August Pullman, a boy with facial differences who goes to a mainstream school for the first time and strives for acceptance and kindness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It promotes empathy, understanding, and the importance of accepting others, regardless of their appearance.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate stories about overcoming challenges and the importance of kindness.

Educational Clean Books for 15-Year-Olds

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  • Genre(s): Classic, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in the Depression-era South, this novel follows young Scout Finch and her brother, Jem, as they navigate a world of racial injustice and moral dilemmas through the lens of their attorney father, Atticus Finch.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking about ethics and morality, understanding of historical racial dynamics, empathy, and literary analysis.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound narrative that deals with serious themes such as racial inequality and moral growth, presented in a way that is accessible and compelling for teens.
  • Perfect for: Students and young readers interested in American history, social justice, and powerful storytelling.

• Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a future society where books are banned and "firemen" burn any that are found, fireman Guy Montag begins to question his role in society and seeks to regain his freedom through books.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking on censorship, freedom of expression, and the role of technology in society; analytical reading.
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges readers to consider the value of intellectual freedom and the dangers of censorship and conformity.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in politics, technology, and philosophy, as well as those who enjoy thought-provoking speculative fiction.

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War
  • Synopsis: Narrated by Death, this novel tells the story of Liesel Meminger, a young girl living in Nazi Germany, who finds solace by stealing books and sharing them with others.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness of World War II, empathy, understanding the power of storytelling, and literary analysis.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on the horrors of war and the beauty of human resilience and connection through the power of words.
  • Perfect for: Young adults who are interested in history, particularly World War II, and those who value deeply moving narratives.

• The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This novel focuses on the tense relationship between two groups - the Socs and the Greasers - in 1960s Oklahoma, exploring themes of loyalty, violence, and social class.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of social structures, empathy, emotional intelligence, and literary analysis.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping story that captures the essence of adolescence and the struggles that come with it, making it relatable and impactful for teen readers.
  • Perfect for: Teens dealing with issues of identity, social conflict, and those who enjoy realistic, character-driven stories.

• A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: The story of young Francie Nolan, who grows up in the slums of Williamsburg during the early 20th century, dealing with life's trials and tribulations with hope and determination.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical context of early 20th-century America, resilience, socio-economic awareness, and literary appreciation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a poignant look at the struggles and joys of a bygone era, with themes of perseverance and the importance of family.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy historical narratives and stories of personal growth and resilience.

Challenging Clean Books for 15-Year-Olds

• Moby-Dick by Herman Melville
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Classic
  • Synopsis: The epic tale of Captain Ahab's obsessive quest to seek revenge on Moby Dick, the white whale that maimed him, exploring complex themes of fate, revenge, and existentialism.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative style is dense and allusive, with extended expository digressions on whaling and natural history, requiring advanced reading skills and patience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound literary classic that offers rich language and deep philosophical questions, providing a robust challenge for advanced readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love classic literature and are looking for a deep dive into complex themes and historical details.

• Crime and Punishment by Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Genre(s): Psychological Fiction, Philosophical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the mental anguish and moral dilemmas of Rodion Raskolnikov, an impoverished ex-student in Saint Petersburg who formulates and executes a plan to kill an unscrupulous pawnbroker for her money.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book delves into complex issues of morality, guilt, and redemption, with dense psychological analysis and philosophical discourse.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping exploration of the human condition, justice, and the possibility of redemption, encouraging deep thought and ethical debate.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in psychology, philosophy, and challenging narratives that encourage reflection on moral questions.

• Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë
  • Genre(s): Gothic, Romance
  • Synopsis: An orphaned girl, Jane Eyre, grows up in the home of her heartless aunt and later at a harsh boarding school, but emerges as a strong-willed governess who falls in love with her mysterious employer, Mr. Rochester.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features intricate thematic content on social criticism, morality, and the struggles of a strong female protagonist in a restrictive Victorian society.
  • Why we recommend this book: Jane's resilience and moral fortitude provide a powerful role model, and the rich prose offers a rewarding challenge.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate a strong, complex heroine and enjoy themes of romance and personal growth amidst adversity.

• Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
  • Genre(s): Bildungsroman, Social Criticism
  • Synopsis: The story of Pip, an orphan boy adopted by a blacksmith's family, who has a mysterious benefactor setting him up as a gentleman in London.
  • Why this book is challenging: Dickens' use of intricate plot twists and his rich, descriptive language require careful and thoughtful reading.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling tale of personal growth and social mobility wrapped in a critique of Victorian society.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy complex characters and plots that offer insights into social and historical contexts.

• Les Misérables by Victor Hugo
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Epic
  • Synopsis: This sweeping novel covers the life of Jean Valjean, a former convict who struggles to escape his past and is pursued relentlessly by the lawman Javert, set against the backdrop of political upheaval in 19th-century France.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel presents a vast and detailed narrative, including lengthy digressions into history, philosophy, and politics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides profound insights into justice, morality, and redemption, with complex characters and interwoven storylines that depict the human experience.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are fascinated by history and are looking for a story that combines deep moral questions with a rich historical setting.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into some clean books and you're around 15 years old, you might be looking for ways to make reading more engaging and beneficial. Here are a few exercises designed to help you develop good reading habits while enjoying your books. These exercises are simple, fun, and super effective for boosting your reading skills and enjoyment!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Helps create a consistent reading habit and makes the task manageable.
  • Tips: Start with small goals and gradually increase them as you get more comfortable.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and enhances concentration.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try to express what emotions and thoughts the book evokes in you.

• Use a Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Keep a list of new or interesting words you find while reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and understanding of the language.
  • Tips: Look up definitions and try to use new words in your daily conversations or writing.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Read the book out loud instead of silently.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and can make the reading experience more engaging.
  • Tips: Try different voices for different characters to make it more fun.

• Summarize Each Chapter
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you finish it.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and memory of the story.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries concise and focus on the main points.

These exercises aren't just tasks; they're stepping stones to becoming a more skilled and enthusiastic reader. Give them a try, and see how much more you can get out of your reading sessions. Happy reading!