10+ Best Fiction Books for 14-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect page-turner for your teen? Finding the right fiction books for 14-year-olds can be a game changer, sparking a lifelong love of reading. Whether they're into thrilling adventures, mysterious plots, or heartwarming tales, we've got you covered. Keep reading to discover our top picks of fiction books that are sure to captivate any 14-year-old reader’s imagination and keep those pages turning!

Fun Fiction Books for 14-Year-Olds

• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book introduces Harry Potter, an eleven-year-old boy who discovers he is a wizard and attends Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Here, he makes friends, faces a dark villain, and uncovers his magical heritage.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gateway to a magical universe that captivates the imagination, encourages reading for pleasure, and explores themes of friendship and courage.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love magic and adventure, and anyone new to the fantasy genre.

• The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: In a dystopian future, Katniss Everdeen volunteers to replace her sister in the Hunger Games, a televised competition where participants must fight to the death. The story explores themes of survival, totalitarianism, and resistance.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling, fast-paced novel that discusses important social issues, making it both exciting and thought-provoking.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in action-packed narratives and exploring complex societal issues.

• Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure, Mythology
  • Synopsis: Percy Jackson discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon, and is sent to Camp Half-Blood where he embarks on a quest to prevent a war among the gods.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines Greek mythology with modern adventure, making ancient stories accessible and exciting.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy fast-paced stories and learning about mythology in a fun way.

• To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han
  • Genre(s): Romance, Young Adult
  • Synopsis: Lara Jean Song keeps her love letters in a hatbox her mother gave her. One day, her secret letters to every boy she’s ever fallen for are mysteriously mailed out.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a light-hearted, charming read that explores young love and the complexities of growing up.
  • Perfect for: Teens who appreciate heartfelt romance and relatable family dynamics.

• Eragon by Christopher Paolini
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A young farm boy named Eragon discovers a mysterious stone that turns out to be a dragon egg, leading him on a path to become a Dragon Rider and fight an evil king.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an expansive fantasy world filled with dragons, magic, and battles, perfect for losing oneself in a detailed otherworldly adventure.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who dream of dragons and epic quests.

• Coraline by Neil Gaiman, illustrated by Dave McKean
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Horror
  • Synopsis: Coraline Jones finds a secret door that leads to a parallel universe that initially seems better than her own world. However, she soon realizes that this alternate world holds dark secrets.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling, slightly spooky tale that teaches about bravery and the importance of being satisfied with what you have.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy a good scare and a strong female protagonist.

Educational Fiction Books for 14-Year-Olds

• The Giver by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: This novel follows twelve-year-old Jonas who lives in a seemingly ideal, if colorless, world of conformity and contentment. When he begins to spend time with The Giver, who is the sole keeper of the community's memories, Jonas discovers the dark and deadly truths of his community’s secret past.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, ethical reasoning, understanding of dystopian literature
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges readers to think about the importance of memory, individuality, and freedom, making it a thought-provoking read.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in deep, philosophical questions about society and human nature.

• Holes by Louis Sachar
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Stanley Yelnats is sent to Camp Green Lake, a juvenile detention center where boys are forced to dig large holes every day. Stanley soon realizes the warden is looking for something specific and the digging serves a greater purpose.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, understanding of themes like justice and redemption, historical knowledge (particularly the history of racial discrimination in America)
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a unique blend of an intriguing mystery and a harsh critique of injustice, packaged in an engaging story.
  • Perfect for: Teens who enjoy a good mystery and stories that feature underdogs overcoming great odds.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Copenhagen, Denmark, during World War II, this story follows ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen as she helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape from the Nazis.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, empathy, understanding of World War II and the Holocaust
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a sensitive and appropriate introduction to the horrors of the Holocaust through the eyes of a child.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are interested in history and stories of bravery and friendship during difficult times.

• The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton
  • Genre(s): Drama, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Ponyboy Curtis and his struggles with right and wrong in a society in which he believes that he is an outsider. As he deals with the challenges of growing up, he learns valuable lessons about loyalty, friendship, and the gap between the rich and the poor.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social awareness, emotional intelligence, understanding of socio-economic disparities
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful and enduring tale of friendship and the struggles of growing up as an outsider.
  • Perfect for: Teens navigating their own journey of self-discovery and those interested in societal roles and class conflicts.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Contemporary, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: August Pullman, born with facial differences that have prevented him from going to a mainstream school, starts fifth grade at Beecher Prep. He wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid—but his new classmates can’t get past Auggie’s extraordinary face.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding of diversity and acceptance, social skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that promotes the importance of kindness, acceptance, and the strength of the human spirit.
  • Perfect for: Young readers learning about empathy, courage, and the impact of kindness.

Challenging Fiction Books for 14-Year-Olds

• 1984 by George Orwell
  • Genre(s): Dystopian, Political Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel presents a chilling depiction of life under a totalitarian regime that watches over every action and manipulates truth and reality. Winston Smith, the protagonist, struggles with oppression in a world where independent thinking is a crime.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex political theories and the sophisticated use of language to explore themes of surveillance, freedom, and truth.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provokes critical thinking about privacy, freedom, and government control, encouraging readers to value and question the world around them.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in politics and social studies, and those who enjoy deep, thought-provoking narratives.

• 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, Guy Montag begins to question his role as a fireman and the society's norms after meeting a young woman who reads secretly.
  • Why this book is challenging: It uses a rich, figurative language and explores complex themes like censorship, the role of technology in society, and the importance of literature.
  • Why we recommend this book: It champions the importance of intellectual freedom and the dangers of censorship, offering a powerful message about the role of books in human culture.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are passionate about literature and rights to freedom of expression.

• Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
  • Genre(s): Science Fiction, Dystopian
  • Synopsis: This novel imagines a futuristic society that has achieved apparent peace and stability through oppressive societal control, including the use of technology and conditioning. The story explores the cost of sacrificing individuality for harmony.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into complex philosophical and ethical questions about the use of technology in controlling human behavior and the definition of happiness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a provocative exploration of the balance between individual freedom and societal order, stimulating deep reflection and discussion.
  • Perfect for: Students interested in philosophy, ethics, and the potential consequences of technological advancements.

• Lord of the Flies by William Golding
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Psychological Thriller
  • Synopsis: A group of British boys are stranded on a deserted island and attempt to govern themselves, with disastrous results. The novel explores the dark side of human nature and the breakdown of societal norms.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores deep themes such as the inherent evil in humanity, the fragility of civilization, and the use of symbolism and allegory.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling tale that examines the complexities of human behavior and the thin veneer of civilization, encouraging readers to think about morality and leadership.
  • Perfect for: Teens who enjoy intense, thought-provoking stories and discussions about human nature and society.

• A Clockwork Orange by Anthony Burgess
  • Genre(s): Dystopian, Psychological Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows Alex, a delinquent teenager who delights in violence and classical music. After being captured by the authorities, he undergoes an experimental psychological treatment to reform him.
  • Why this book is challenging: It employs inventive language (Nadsat slang), complex themes of free will versus state control, and the moral questions surrounding crime and punishment.
  • Why we recommend this book: It challenges readers to consider the limits of ethical psychological intervention and the nature of free will, making it a deeply engaging and provocative read.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers interested in psychology, ethics, and dystopian narratives.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're 14 and diving into the world of fiction books, you're in for an incredible adventure. To make the most out of your reading experience, here are some fun and effective exercises that can help you develop good reading habits. These will not only enhance your understanding but also make your reading time more enjoyable.

• Set a Daily Reading Goal
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Ensures consistent reading and gradual improvement in reading speed and comprehension.
  • Tips: Start with a manageable goal and increase it gradually as you become more comfortable.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Reduces distractions and creates a comfortable environment that can enhance your reading experience.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s well-lit and quiet, and maybe add a cozy chair or some cushions.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the books you're reading with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the book’s content, and can offer new perspectives.
  • Tips: Try to express what emotions and thoughts the book evokes in you during these discussions.

• Use a Reading App
  • What it is: Utilize a digital application to track your reading habits and discover new books.
  • How it helps: Keeps you organized and motivated; some apps also provide community features to connect with other readers.
  • Tips: Choose an app that allows you to set reminders and gives you personalized recommendations.

• 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 regularly and exposes you to genres and authors you might not explore on your own.
  • Tips: Be active in discussions and don’t be afraid to suggest books that interest you.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes from the books you read.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keeps track of progress and reflections.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of filling out the journal every day after your reading session.

By incorporating these exercises into your daily routine, you'll not only improve your reading skills but also deepen your appreciation for literature. Remember, the key to becoming a better reader is consistency and engagement, so pick the exercises that excite you the most and get started today. Happy reading!