When people think about young adult books, YA dystopian novels and cringey love triangles often come to mind. You might think of the success of The Hunger Games and the flood of books that tried to ride off of its popularity. But YA books are more than just dystopian cash grabs–and they don’t have to be enjoyed by just “young adults.” 20-somethings can still enjoy them too!
I’m a huge fan of YA, and I’ve been outside of the recommended 12-18 year old age range for a few years now. There are plenty of young adult books that can be enjoyed by older audiences. Personally, I think that some YA books are better when you’re older. Once your brain is more developed and you’re out of the angsty teenage phase, these books have new depths to explore. Here are my 5 favorite YA series. Don’t be scared by the YA label; there’s something for everyone here.
1. Lockwood and Co. by Jonathan Stroud
No matter how old I get, I will always come back to this series. There’s something about a ragtag group of teen ghost hunters in London that never fails to draw me back in.
After years of ghost outbreaks throughout the world, Lucy Carlyle joins a small agency of ghost hunters, run by the mysterious and charming Lockwood. As they fight supernatural specters, a mystery unfolds from an old murder case, and the agency vows to solve it.
This book is undeniably well-written and hilarious. All of the characters are so distinct and feel like real, living people. The first book is an iconic introduction to this world, and the series only gets better from there. Trust me when I say I’ll be returning to it time and time again.
If you end up loving the books like I do, I recommend checking out the phenomenal show on Netflix! Click here to watch
2. The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyers
A lot of people are familiar with fairytales, but this series retells them in the most creative way. Imagine if Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and Snow White took place in a futuristic sci-fi world where they had to fight the Evil Queen. Fairytales might seem like they’re for kids, but these YA books are perfect for 20-somethings as well.
Each of the books follows a fairytale character on a wild adventure that culminates in the final book, Winter. The main characters are vibrant and memorable, and the overall plot is an incredibly unique spin on classic tales. I can’t express how much fun this series is!
3. Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson
Drop everything you’re doing and pick up this book, because it is truly sensational. You might know the story of Peter Pan and Captain Hook, but do you know how they came to be who they are? Barry and Pearson’s wonderfully written series expands on Neverland and the magic that courses through the world.
The two men are the writing duo you never knew you needed. They are effortlessly witty and innovative with the story. The series honors the original tale while still fabricating new adventures for the characters. Don’t worry about being outside of the age range; I promise you’ll still enjoy it.
If possible, the series might almost be better to listen to! The audiobook, narrated by Jim Dale, is a wonderful alternative that I highly recommend. Listen now on Audible
4. Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan
A lot of 20-somethings read Percy Jackson when they were children; I know I did. But just because the books were a part of our childhoods doesn’t we can’t reread them when we’re grown up.
The best thing about this series is how one-of-a-kind it is. Rick Riordan is a master of witty lines and sarcastic comments that make his characters feel snappy and dynamic. Percy is a standout main character, but each of his friends and allies are equally enthralling. The adventure is riveting, the quips are sassy, and the monsters are vicious. 20-somethings will have a great time stepping back into Percy’s world and reliving the adventures we loved when we were kids.
Another amazing aspect of the series is its mythological premise. Anyone at any age can be inspired by the legends woven throughout.
5. Children of Blood and Bone by Tomi Adeyemi
If you like mysterious magic, elaborate world-building, and relatable characters, then this book is for you. It is one of my favorite YA books out there, and it’s an excellent read for 20-somethings.
In the fictional country of Orïsha, society is deeply divided between the magical divîners and the non-magical kosidán. With the help of her brother Tzain and Princess Amari, the hot-tempered divîner Zelie finds herself in a quest to understand her magic and bring justice to her people. She is simultaneously being tracked by the crowned prince Inan, who is determined to stop Zelie’s efforts to resurrect magic.
While the books contain fantastical adventures with magic and gods, there are plenty of real-world elements. Concepts like racism, colorism, and systemic oppression elevate the message and keep the series relevant for older readers. 20-somethings, who are more knowledgeable about the societal parallels, should certainly check it out.
Why give these books a chance?
YA books don’t have to be strictly reserved for “young adults.” Anyone can find enjoyment from them, and the five I’ve listed rank among my personal favorites. Some are rooted in childhood fables, others in real world topics, but they are all downright fun for everyone.
