Discover Inspiring Young Adult Authors

If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent countless hours lost in the pages of young adult novels, especially those that whisk you away to fantastical worlds or introduce you to characters who feel like your best friends. There’s something magical about YA books that blend sci-fi, fantasy, and queer themes with heartfelt stories about relationships that aren’t romantic but just as powerful—think siblings, best friends, chosen families. Today, I’m diving into the world of popular YA writers who are shaking up the genre and making it impossible to put their books down.

Why Popular YA Writers Are Changing the Game

Let’s be honest: YA literature isn’t just for teens anymore. It’s a vibrant, evolving genre that speaks to anyone who’s ever felt a little out of place or hungry for stories that reflect the messy, beautiful complexity of life. Popular YA writers are at the forefront of this movement, crafting narratives that are inclusive, imaginative, and downright addictive.

What sets these authors apart? For starters, they don’t shy away from tough topics or diverse characters. They embrace queer identities, explore sibling bonds that rival any romance, and build worlds where sci-fi and fantasy elements aren’t just window dressing but integral to the story. Plus, their writing style? Relatable, witty, and often sprinkled with humor that makes you feel like you’re chatting with a friend rather than reading a textbook.

If you want to get a taste of this fresh wave of storytelling, you might want to check out my debut series, a cyberpunk duology about criminals navigating their own mental health struggles and relationship problems.

A cozy reading nook filled with popular YA fantasy books

Meet Some of the My Favorite YA Writers Today

Okay, so here’s a non-exhaustive list of some authors you absolutely need on your radar:

• Leigh Bardugo: If you haven’t dived into the Grishaverse yet, what are you waiting for? Bardugo’s dark fantasy worlds and complex characters have captivated readers worldwide, including me, of course.

• R.F. Kuang: Her books are beautifully written with insane world-building and historical elements, often exploring the Asian identity and challenging social issues relevant to the community.

• F.T. Lukens: Each of their books is absolutely enchanting and portray sweet queer relationships, and they're definitely my go-to author when I want a little feel-good story to curl up with.

• Alice Oseman: You might know her because of Heartstopper, but Loveless is what got me back into reading during high school. As an aroace myself, I'd say it's a must-read for those dying for a-spec representation and a story where romance is not the answer.

  
  

These authors don’t just write stories; they create experiences that stick with you long after you turn the last page. And the best part? They’re constantly pushing the boundaries of what YA literature can be.

What are my top book recommendations?

Alright, let’s get to the most exciting part—what are the top 10 young adult books that you absolutely must read? Whether you’re new to YA or a seasoned fan, these picks are guaranteed to keep you hooked:

1. "The Poppy War" by R.F. Kuang - A grimdark fantasy drawn from mid-20th-century China politics.

2. "Six of Crows" by Leigh Bardugo - A gritty heist story with a ragtag crew you’ll root for.

3. "The Song of Achilles" by Madeline Miller - A beautifully written retelling of Greek mythology with a queer twist.

4. "In Deeper Waters" by F.T. Lukens - A sweet and fluffy story about gays, princes and pirates, and magic.

5. "Cemetery Boys" by Aiden Thomas - A supernatural tale featuring a trans Latinx protagonist.

6. "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas - A gripping novel about race, justice, and activism.

7. "Loveless" by Alice Oseman - A relatable journey in discovering aromanticism and asexuality.

8. "Vicious" by V.E. Schwab - A gritty story about individuals with superpowers who are far from heroes.

9. "If We Were Villains" by M.L. Rio - A contemporary dark academia mystery thriller involving queer theatre kids in a complicated friend group.

10. "Iron Widow" by Xiran Jay Zhao - An epic fusion of Chinese history and futuristic sci-fi with dark characters and polyamory.

Each of these books offers something special, whether it’s a fresh perspective, unforgettable characters, or a world you’ll want to revisit again and again. If I weren't drowning in my Master's degree right now, I'd be reading these books over and over again.

A bookshelf showcasing a variety of popular young adult books

How to Find Your Next Favorite YA Book

Finding your next favorite YA book can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. Here’s a little secret: start with what excites you most. Are you craving a sci-fi adventure? A fantasy epic? Stories that explore queer identities or sibling bonds? Once you know your vibe, it’s easier to narrow down your choices.

Here are some tips to help you on your quest:

• Follow popular YA writers on social media: They often share sneak peeks, book recommendations, and behind-the-scenes looks at their writing process.

• Join online book communities: Places like Goodreads, Reddit’s r/YAlit, or bookstagram on Instagram are goldmines for discovering new reads.

• Check out book subscription boxes: Many focus on diverse YA titles and can introduce you to authors you might not find otherwise.

• Read reviews and watch booktube videos: Honest opinions from fellow readers can guide you toward books that match your taste.

• Explore local libraries and bookstores: Don’t underestimate the power of a good chat with a librarian or bookseller who knows their YA section.

  
  

And hey, if you want to dive into stories that celebrate platonic and sibling relationships with a sci-fi and fantasy twist, definitely give my books a look :)

Why Diverse Voices Matter in YA Literature

One of the coolest things about the current YA landscape is the explosion of diverse voices. For years, mainstream YA was dominated by a narrow set of stories and characters. Now? We’re seeing authors from all backgrounds telling stories that reflect the real world’s rich tapestry.

Why does this matter? Because representation isn’t just about seeing yourself in a book (though that’s also huge). It’s about empathy, understanding, and expanding your worldview. When you read a book by a queer author or one that centers sibling relationships instead of just romantic ones, you get a fresh perspective that can change how you see the world.

Plus, diverse stories often bring new ideas and storytelling techniques that keep the genre exciting. They challenge stereotypes and open doors for readers who might have felt invisible before.

So, if you want to support this movement and enjoy some truly groundbreaking stories, keep an eye on authors like Astraea Long and others who are pushing YA literature into bold new territory.

Your Next Reading Adventure Awaits

There you have it --- a whirlwind tour of popular YA writers and the incredible stories they’re telling. Whether you’re into sci-fi, fantasy, or books that explore queer themes and sibling bonds, there’s something out there that’s just waiting to capture your heart.

Remember, the best part about YA literature is how it invites you to dream big, feel deeply, and maybe even laugh out loud at the chaos of growing up. So grab a book, find a cozy spot, and get ready to be inspired by some of the most talented young adult authors writing today.

And if you want to start with someone who truly understands the power of platonic and sibling relationships in a sci-fi setting, don’t miss out on Welcome to the Damned. As an aroace with the best big brother in the world, I did my best to incorporate these dynamics into my story. Honestly, I enjoyed reading it after I finally got to hold a copy of it in my hands, and I hope you do, too.

Happy reading!