The world of Young Adult literature is vast and vibrant, offering epic journeys, unforgettable characters, and worlds that feel as real as our own. But with so many options, finding the right series can be a quest in itself. Whether you're a seasoned reader or new to the genre, our curated list of the 12 best young adult series is your definitive guide to the most compelling, thought-provoking, and utterly binge-worthy stories. From dystopian battlegrounds and magical fae courts to poignant contemporary tales, these are the series that have captured hearts, sparked conversations, and defined a generation.
This guide is designed to be your ultimate resource. We'll provide a clear overview of each series, highlight its unique appeal, and detail the correct reading order to ensure you experience every twist and turn as the author intended. We've eliminated the guesswork so you can dive straight into your next favorite world. To fully enjoy your next literary adventure, consider enhancing your reading comfort with a versatile hands-free book and tablet holder, making it easy to get lost in these pages for hours. Get ready to discover your next obsession.
1. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games trilogy is a cornerstone of modern young adult fiction, setting a high bar for the dystopian genre. The series is set in Panem, a totalitarian nation where, as punishment for a past rebellion, one boy and one girl from each of the twelve districts are selected annually to participate in a televised fight to the death. The story follows 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who volunteers to take her younger sister's place in the games, igniting a spark of rebellion that threatens the Capitol's iron grip.
This series excels in its exploration of complex themes like survival, sacrifice, and the corrupting influence of power and media. Collins crafts a narrative that is both a thrilling page-turner and a sharp critique of reality television and governmental control, making it one of the best young adult series for readers who enjoy high-stakes action with profound social commentary.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Rebellion, survival, media manipulation, and the human cost of war.
Why It Stands Out: The series features a strong, complex female protagonist and a morally gray world that challenges readers to question authority and propaganda. Its fast-paced plot is perfectly balanced with deep character development.
Reading Order: Start with The Hunger Games, followed by Catching Fire, and conclude with Mockingjay. A prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, was also released. You can find a detailed guide to the complete Hunger Games reading order on BooksInOrder.org.
2. Percy Jackson & The Olympians by Rick Riordan
Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson & The Olympians masterfully blends ancient Greek mythology with the modern world, creating an adventure that has captivated a generation of readers. The series follows Percy Jackson, a seemingly ordinary 12-year-old who discovers he is the son of the Greek god Poseidon. Whisked away to Camp Half-Blood, a summer camp for demigods, Percy embarks on epic quests alongside his friends, battling mythological monsters and navigating the treacherous politics of the gods on Mount Olympus.
This series shines with its witty humor, fast-paced action, and an incredible ability to make classical mythology accessible and wildly entertaining. Riordan's narrative is a perfect mix of thrilling adventure and heartfelt coming-of-age story, making it one of the best young adult series for anyone who loves fantasy, friendship, and heroic journeys. For those who enjoy the epic tales of gods and heroes, you might also want to explore more Greek mythology audio stories.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Identity, heroism, friendship, and the clash between the ancient and modern worlds.
Why It Stands Out: The series is celebrated for its humor, relatable protagonist, and educational yet exciting take on Greek mythology. It makes learning about the gods, goddesses, and monsters of ancient Greece an unforgettable adventure.
Reading Order: Start with The Lightning Thief, followed by The Sea of Monsters, The Titan's Curse, The Battle of the Labyrinth, and The Last Olympian. You can learn more about how this series compares to other iconic series by reading about the Harry Potter book order.
3. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars is a monumental work in contemporary young adult fiction, standing as a poignant and unflinching exploration of life, love, and loss. The story introduces Hazel Grace Lancaster, a teen living with cancer, whose life is transformed when she meets the witty and charming Augustus Waters at a cancer support group. Together, they embark on a journey that navigates the complexities of illness, family, and the search for meaning in a finite existence.
While technically a standalone novel, its profound impact and the universe of thought it inspires place it firmly among the best young adult series' reads. Green masterfully blends sharp humor with heart-wrenching emotion, creating a narrative that is both intellectually stimulating and deeply moving. The book challenges readers to confront existential questions while celebrating the small infinities found in human connection.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Mortality, love, suffering, the meaning of life, and the impact of illness.
Why It Stands Out: Its authentic voice, intelligent humor, and profound philosophical questions set it apart. The novel avoids sentimental clichés, offering a realistic and powerful portrayal of teenagers facing immense challenges.
Reading Order: As a standalone novel, it can be read on its own. Its thematic depth makes it an excellent choice for discussion, and you can explore engaging book club discussion questions on BooksInOrder.org.
4. The Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer
Stephenie Meyer's The Twilight Saga is a cultural phenomenon that redefined the paranormal romance genre for a new generation. The series follows teenager Bella Swan as she moves to the small town of Forks, Washington, and falls in love with Edward Cullen, a mysterious and alluring classmate who is secretly a vampire. Their forbidden romance unfolds against a backdrop of supernatural conflict, family loyalties, and the struggles of first love.
This saga captivated millions with its blend of intense romance, high-stakes danger, and a unique take on vampire and werewolf mythology. Meyer's world-building is immersive, turning the rainy Pacific Northwest into an iconic setting. The series' exploration of eternal love, choice, and what it means to be human makes it one of the best young adult series for readers who crave a sweeping and emotional love story.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Forbidden love, choice versus fate, self-sacrifice, and family bonds.
Why It Stands Out: The series launched the mainstream YA paranormal romance boom and created a dedicated global fanbase. Its focus on the emotional depth of its central relationship, combined with accessible lore, made it an unstoppable force in pop culture.
Reading Order: Start with Twilight, then New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn. Meyer has also released companion novels, including The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner and Midnight Sun, which retells the first book from Edward's perspective. You can explore the full reading order on BooksInOrder.org.
5. The Divergent Series by Veronica Roth
Veronica Roth’s Divergent trilogy offers a thrilling take on the dystopian genre, carving out its own unique space in the young adult landscape. The series is set in a post-apocalyptic Chicago where society is divided into five distinct factions, each dedicated to a particular virtue: Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). The story follows Beatrice "Tris" Prior, who discovers she is Divergent and doesn't fit into any one faction, a secret she must protect at all costs as it threatens to unravel her society's fragile order.
This series is celebrated for its high-octane action and exploration of identity, choice, and conformity. Roth builds a world that forces its characters and readers to question whether human nature can truly be confined to a single defining trait. The rapid pacing and constant sense of danger make it one of the best young adult series for fans of action-packed stories with a compelling psychological core.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Identity, choice versus destiny, societal control, and the meaning of bravery.
Why It Stands Out: Its unique faction-based social structure provides a fascinating framework for exploring themes of belonging and individuality. The series features a dynamic, evolving protagonist and a compelling romantic subplot.
Reading Order: The main trilogy should be read in order: Divergent, Insurgent, and Allegiant. Roth also released Four: A Divergent Collection, a companion book of short stories from Tobias Eaton's perspective.
6. The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer
Marissa Meyer’s The Lunar Chronicles masterfully blends science fiction with classic fairy tales, creating a futuristic world brimming with cyborgs, androids, and political tension between Earth and its lunar colony. The series reimagines Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Rapunzel, and Snow White as interconnected heroines fighting against a tyrannical lunar queen. The story begins with Linh Cinder, a gifted mechanic and cyborg, whose life becomes entangled with the handsome Prince Kai, thrusting her into a galaxy-spanning conflict.
This series is a brilliant example of creative world-building and character-driven storytelling. Meyer weaves together multiple plotlines and perspectives flawlessly, crafting an epic saga about identity, freedom, and revolution. It's one of the best young adult series for readers who love inventive retellings, found family dynamics, and a sprawling, high-stakes plot that builds with each installment.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Identity, destiny vs. free will, oppression, and revolution.
Why It Stands Out: Its unique premise of sci-fi fairy tale retellings is executed perfectly. The interconnected narratives of strong female protagonists create a rich and compelling universe that feels both familiar and entirely new.
Reading Order: Start with Cinder, then read Scarlet, Cress, and Winter. Companion books include the prequel Fairest and the short story collection Stars Above. You can explore the full series on Marissa Meyer's official website.
7. The Maze Runner by James Dashner
James Dashner’s The Maze Runner series is a high-octane blend of dystopian science fiction, mystery, and survival thriller. The story begins with Thomas, a teenage boy who wakes up in a metal box with no memory except for his name. He finds himself in the Glade, a large expanse populated by other boys, all trapped by a colossal and deadly maze that shifts every night. Together, they must navigate the treacherous maze, evade monstrous creatures called Grievers, and uncover the dark conspiracy behind their imprisonment.
The series is celebrated for its relentless pace and constant sense of mystery, keeping readers guessing with every new revelation. Dashner crafts a world filled with danger and suspense, forcing his characters to rely on teamwork and courage to survive. The Maze Runner is an essential read for fans of action-packed stories and one of the best young adult series for those who love a good puzzle box-style narrative.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Survival, memory, loyalty, and the ethics of scientific experimentation.
Why It Stands Out: Its unique premise combines a contained-environment mystery with sprawling post-apocalyptic world-building. The unrelenting action and constant plot twists make it nearly impossible to put down.
Reading Order: Begin with The Maze Runner, then The Scorch Trials, and The Death Cure. Dashner also wrote two prequels, The Kill Order and The Fever Code, that expand on the world's origins.
8. Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Leigh Bardugo's Six of Crows duology delivers a masterclass in fantasy heist storytelling, set within her richly imagined Grishaverse. The story is centered in the bustling, crime-ridden city of Ketterdam, where criminal prodigy Kaz Brekker assembles a crew of six dangerous outcasts for an impossible mission: break into the impenetrable Ice Court and retrieve a valuable asset. Each member of the crew brings their own unique skills and haunted past to the table, creating a dynamic and volatile team.
This duology is celebrated for its intricate, high-stakes plotting and its morally gray characters. Bardugo weaves a complex narrative with multiple perspectives, giving readers deep insight into the motivations and vulnerabilities of each protagonist. For readers who love found families, clever schemes, and character-driven fantasy, Six of Crows is undeniably one of the best young adult series available.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Found family, trauma and survival, moral ambiguity, and redemption.
Why It Stands Out: Its incredible character depth, sharp dialogue, and flawless execution of a high-stakes heist plot set it apart. The series features phenomenal world-building and diverse representation.
Reading Order: Start with Six of Crows and conclude with its sequel, Crooked Kingdom. While it can be read on its own, it is set in the same world as the Shadow and Bone trilogy. You can find more details about this popular YA book series here.
9. The Cruel Prince by Holly Black
Holly Black’s The Cruel Prince whisks readers away to the treacherous and enchanting world of Faerie, solidifying its place as a staple of modern YA fantasy. The series centers on Jude Duarte, a mortal girl who was stolen away to live in the High Court of Faerie after her parents were murdered. Surrounded by powerful, immortal beings who despise mortals, she must use her wits and ambition to survive, all while navigating a dangerous political landscape and a complicated relationship with the arrogant and wicked Prince Cardan.
This series is celebrated for its intricate world-building, political intrigue, and morally gray characters. Black crafts a narrative filled with betrayals, alliances, and a slow-burn enemies-to-lovers romance that has captivated a massive audience. It's a perfect choice for readers seeking a fantasy series that is as dark and cunning as it is magical, truly one of the best young adult series for those who love court politics and fae lore.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Power dynamics, belonging, ambition, and deception.
Why It Stands Out: Its complex protagonist, Jude, is driven by ambition rather than pure morality, offering a refreshing perspective. The series excels at political maneuvering and features a rich, atmospheric world.
Reading Order: The main trilogy begins with The Cruel Prince, followed by The Wicked King, and concludes with The Queen of Nothing. A companion novella, How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories, offers additional insight into Cardan's perspective.
10. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
Angie Thomas's The Hate U Give is a groundbreaking work of contemporary young adult fiction that has become a vital voice in modern literature. The series, which also includes the prequel Concrete Rose and the companion novel On the Come Up, centers on Starr Carter, a Black teen who lives a double life between her poor, predominantly Black neighborhood and her affluent, mostly white private school. Her world is shattered when she becomes the sole witness to the fatal police shooting of her childhood best friend, Khalil. The story follows Starr as she finds the courage to speak her truth, navigating the treacherous waters of activism, racial injustice, and identity.
This series is celebrated for its raw, unflinching, and authentic portrayal of systemic racism and police brutality. Thomas masterfully blends heavy, critical themes with moments of humor, family love, and hope, making the narrative accessible and deeply human. It stands as one of the best young adult series for its powerful social commentary and its ability to spark necessary conversations while telling an unforgettable story.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Racial injustice, activism, identity, community, and the power of voice.
Why It Stands Out: The series offers a poignant and timely exploration of complex social issues from an authentic teen perspective. Its characters are richly developed, and the narrative is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Reading Order: The books can be read in publication order, starting with The Hate U Give, followed by On the Come Up and Concrete Rose. For a chronological experience, start with the prequel Concrete Rose.
11. The Inheritance Games by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Jennifer Lynn Barnes delivers a thrilling blend of mystery and puzzle-solving in The Inheritance Games series. The story introduces Avery Kylie Grambs, an ordinary teenager whose life is turned upside down when she inexplicably inherits the massive fortune of a deceased billionaire, Tobias Hawthorne. To claim her inheritance, Avery must move into the sprawling Hawthorne House, a mansion filled with secret passages, riddles, and the billionaire's four brilliant, disinherited grandsons.
This series is a masterclass in suspense, weaving intricate puzzles and family secrets into a high-stakes narrative. Avery must navigate a world of wealth, danger, and deception, all while trying to figure out why a man she never met left her everything. The Inheritance Games is one of the best young adult series for fans of escape rooms, brain-teasing riddles, and a healthy dose of romantic tension.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Mystery, wealth, family secrets, and identity.
Why It Stands Out: The series is packed with clever puzzles and riddles that readers can solve alongside the protagonist. Its compelling "rags-to-riches" premise is given a unique twist with a constant undercurrent of danger and intrigue.
Reading Order: The main trilogy begins with The Inheritance Games, followed by The Hawthorne Legacy, and concludes with The Final Gambit. A companion book, The Brothers Hawthorne, continues the story.
12. We Were Liars by E. Lockhart
E. Lockhart’s We Were Liars is a masterful contemporary mystery that captivates with its haunting atmosphere and an unforgettable twist. The story centers on the wealthy, seemingly perfect Sinclair family and their summers on a private island. It is narrated by Cadence Sinclair Eastman, who suffers amnesia after a mysterious accident. As she struggles to piece together her fragmented memories, she uncovers the dark truths and devastating secrets her family has fought so hard to bury.
This series is a brilliant exploration of privilege, grief, and the destructive nature of secrets. Lockhart's lyrical prose and unreliable narrator create an immersive and suspenseful experience that builds to a shocking conclusion. Its unique narrative style and psychological depth make it one of the best young adult series for readers who appreciate a slow-burn thriller with a powerful emotional punch.
Key Series Highlights
Core Themes: Family secrets, grief, privilege, and the fallibility of memory.
Why It Stands Out: The book is renowned for its stunning plot twist and poetic, atmospheric writing. It tackles complex emotional issues with a sophisticated narrative structure that keeps readers guessing until the very end.
Reading Order: Start with the original novel, We Were Liars. The prequel, Family of Liars, delves into the previous generation's secrets and can be read second. You can learn more about the author and her work on her official website.
Top 12 Young Adult Series Comparison
| Title | Reading complexity | Commitment / Resources | Expected experience / Outcomes | Ideal reader / Use cases | Key advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Hunger Games (Suzanne Collins) | Moderate — fast prose with political themes | Trilogy; moderate time investment | Tense action, political drama, emotional stakes | Ages 14+, readers of dystopian action and social commentary | Gripping narrative, strong protagonist, thought-provoking themes |
| Percy Jackson & The Olympians (Rick Riordan) | Easy to moderate — humorous, accessible prose | Five-book series; family-friendly length | Energetic adventure, myth-learning, comedic tone | Ages 10–16; reluctant readers, mythology fans | Entertaining gateway to classics, inclusive representation |
| The Fault in Our Stars (John Green) | Moderate — literary contemporary with philosophical dialogue | Single novel; low time commitment | Emotionally intense, reflective exploration of mortality | Ages 14+; readers seeking poignant contemporary romance | Deep emotional impact, authentic portrayal of illness |
| The Twilight Saga (Stephenie Meyer) | Easy to moderate — repetitive, emotionally driven | Four main books; moderate commitment | Romantic, gothic atmosphere, melodrama | Ages 13+; fans of paranormal romance | Immersive world-building, major cultural impact, film tie-ins |
| The Divergent Series (Veronica Roth) | Moderate — dystopian with identity themes | Trilogy (plus extras); moderate investment | Identity-driven action, faction-based politics | Ages 14+; dystopian aficionados | Distinct faction system, fast-paced, themes of individuality |
| The Lunar Chronicles (Marissa Meyer) | Moderate to high — multiple POVs and sci-fi elements | Four main books plus novellas; higher commitment | Fairytale retellings in futuristic setting, interconnected plot | Ages 13+; fans of fairytales and sci‑fi blends | Original retellings, diverse cast, strong character arcs |
| The Maze Runner (James Dashner) | Easy to moderate — action-heavy, mystery focus | Trilogy with prequels; moderate commitment | High-tension survival thriller, gradual revelations | Ages 13+; action/thriller readers | Fast-paced, unique premise, strong suspense |
| Six of Crows (Leigh Bardugo) | High — intricate plotting and multiple POVs | Duology; moderate time investment | Complex heist, morally gray characters, tight pacing | Ages 14+; sophisticated fantasy readers | Brilliant plotting, character chemistry, strong representation |
| The Cruel Prince (Holly Black) | Moderate to high — political intrigue in faerie court | Trilogy; moderate commitment | Dark court politics, moral ambiguity, emotional intensity | Ages 15+; mature YA readers who like dark fantasy | Rich world-building, compelling protagonist, gothic tone |
| The Hate U Give (Angie Thomas) | Moderate — contemporary voice with social themes | Single novel (expanded universe available); low commitment | Socially relevant, emotionally powerful, activist perspective | Ages 14+; readers interested in racial justice and contemporary issues | Timely relevance, authentic Black representation, sparks discussion |
| The Inheritance Games (Jennifer Lynn Barnes) | Moderate — puzzle-driven with accessible prose | Series (multiple books); moderate commitment | Clever mysteries, puzzle-solving, estate intrigue | Ages 12+; mystery and puzzle enthusiasts | Engaging puzzles, accessible reading, strong found-family element |
| We Were Liars (E. Lockhart) | Moderate — lyrical prose with unreliable narrator | Single novel (companion books exist); low commitment | Psychological mystery, twist-driven emotional impact | Ages 14+; readers of contemporary mysteries and literary twists | Elegant prose, powerful twist, re-readable with foreshadowing |
Keeping Your Worlds in Order
Navigating the expansive and compelling universes detailed in this list is an adventure in itself. From the dystopian districts of The Hunger Games to the intricate political webs of The Cruel Prince, each series offers a meticulously crafted narrative journey. We've explored sagas that redefined the genre, like Twilight and Divergent, and contemporary masterpieces such as The Hate U Give that ground us in powerful, real-world issues. The common thread weaving through all these incredible stories is their sequential nature. The emotional weight of a character's sacrifice or the shock of a sudden plot twist hinges on the foundation laid by previous installments.
The power of the best young adult series lies in their ability to build momentum. The slow-burn romance in Six of Crows, the escalating stakes in The Maze Runner, and the mythological world-building in Percy Jackson are all designed to be experienced in a specific order. Reading them correctly isn't just about following a plot; it's about honoring the author's intended pacing, allowing character development to unfold organically, and ensuring that every reveal lands with maximum impact. Stepping into these worlds out of sequence is like arriving at a grand finale without having seen the opening act; you might understand the events, but you’ll miss the crucial context that gives them meaning.
Your Next Steps into New Worlds
As you decide which series to dive into next, consider what you're looking for in a reading experience. Are you seeking high-stakes action, thought-provoking contemporary themes, or enchanting fantasy?
For Thrills and Intrigue: If the high-stakes puzzles of The Inheritance Games or the survival challenges in The Hunger Games resonated with you, your next step should be to map out the entire series. Pay close attention to any prequel novellas or companion books, as these often provide essential backstory that enriches the main narrative.
For Expansive Fantasy: For those drawn to the magic of Leigh Bardugo's Grishaverse or Holly Black's Faerie, understanding the interconnectedness of different series is key. Many fantasy worlds have multiple entry points and overlapping timelines, making a reliable reading guide indispensable for a cohesive experience.
For Emotional Depth: If standalone-style series like The Fault in Our Stars or The Hate U Give left an impression, exploring the author's other works is a fantastic next step. Authors like John Green and Angie Thomas often explore similar powerful themes across their bibliographies, creating a thematically connected reading journey.
Ultimately, the journey through the best young adult series is a personal one, but it's a journey best taken with a reliable map. Ensuring you have the correct reading order transforms a simple pastime into an immersive and unforgettable experience. It allows you to fully appreciate the author's vision and connect deeply with the characters as their stories unfold, one book at a time.
Ready to start your next literary adventure without the confusion of mixed-up timelines? Visit Books In Order to find verified chronological and publication reading lists for every series featured here and thousands more. Let our comprehensive guides ensure you experience every story exactly as the author intended.
Tags: best young adult series, YA book series, top teen books, must-read YA, popular YA fantasy