Young Adult (YA) fiction has gifted readers some of the most unforgettable worlds, characters, and adventures in modern literature. From magical schools to dystopian battlegrounds, these stories define generations and continue to captivate new audiences. But with so many epic sagas to choose from, knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming. This guide cuts through the noise, highlighting nine of the most popular YA book series that have shaped the genre and remain essential must-reads for any fantasy or fiction enthusiast.
For each series featured, you will find a concise synopsis to quickly grasp its core premise, the official reading order to ensure you experience the narrative as intended, and key insights into what makes it a timeless classic. We focus on the intricate world-building, compelling character arcs, and the cultural impact that cemented their place in readers' hearts. Think of this as your definitive roadmap to discovering your next great literary escape or revisiting a cherished favorite. Whether you are a newcomer to the genre or a seasoned fan, this curated list provides everything you need to dive into these incredible stories with confidence and clarity.
1. Harry Potter
J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter series is more than just a collection of books; it's a cultural touchstone that redefined the landscape of young adult literature. The seven-book saga follows the orphaned Harry Potter, who discovers on his eleventh birthday that he is a wizard. He is whisked away to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he forges deep friendships, uncovers dark secrets about his past, and prepares for an inevitable confrontation with the malevolent Lord Voldemort.
This series stands as one of the most popular ya book series of all time, fundamentally shaping the genre for a new generation. Its success is staggering, with over 600 million copies sold and translations into more than 80 languages. The story's appeal lies in its intricate world-building, complex characters who mature with their readers, and timeless themes of love, loss, and the fight between good and evil.
Why It's a Must-Read
The series excels by growing alongside its audience. The initial books are whimsical and full of wonder, while later entries explore darker, more mature themes of prejudice, sacrifice, and political corruption. This thematic evolution allows the series to remain compelling for readers of all ages, offering new insights with every reread.
How to Get Started
Reading Order: Begin with Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (or Sorcerer's Stone in the US) and follow the publication order. The narrative is strictly chronological, and each installment builds directly upon the last. For a comprehensive list of all books in order, including companion works, you can explore this detailed Harry Potter series guide.
Best Experience: For an immersive journey, consider the audiobooks. The narrations by Jim Dale (US) and Stephen Fry (UK) are celebrated for their masterful vocal performances, bringing hundreds of characters to life.
When to Read: This series is perfect for anyone seeking an epic, multi-layered adventure. It is an ideal starting point for new fantasy readers and a comforting return for seasoned fans.
2. The Hunger Games
Suzanne Collins' The Hunger Games trilogy plunges readers into the grim, post-apocalyptic nation of Panem, where the tyrannical Capitol maintains control by forcing each of its twelve districts to offer up one boy and one girl to fight to the death in a televised spectacle. The series follows 16-year-old Katniss Everdeen, who volunteers in her younger sister’s place, unwittingly becoming a symbol of rebellion against an oppressive regime.
This series is a titan among popular ya book series, credited with spearheading the dystopian boom of the 2010s. With over 65 million copies sold in North America alone and four blockbuster film adaptations, its cultural impact is undeniable. The trilogy’s strength lies in its raw, unflinching exploration of survival, media manipulation, and the devastating human cost of war, all seen through the eyes of a reluctant but fiercely determined heroine.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Hunger Games excels with its gripping pace and profound social commentary. Collins masterfully critiques reality television, propaganda, and the desensitization to violence, forcing readers to question the world around them. Katniss Everdeen is a complex, flawed protagonist whose internal struggles with trauma and her role as a revolutionary figure provide a powerful emotional core.
How to Get Started
Reading Order: Start with The Hunger Games, followed by Catching Fire, and conclude with Mockingjay. The prequel, The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, is best read after the original trilogy to fully appreciate its connections. To get a complete overview of the series, check out this guide on where to start with The Hunger Games series.
Best Experience: Read the books as a complete trilogy to fully experience the escalating stakes and Katniss's character arc without interruption. Discussing the heavy themes with a book club or online community can greatly enrich the reading experience.
When to Read: This series is ideal for readers who enjoy fast-paced, high-stakes thrillers with deep political and social undertones. It’s a compelling read for anyone interested in stories of rebellion, resilience, and the power of one person to inspire change.
3. Twilight Saga
Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight Saga captivated millions, reigniting the vampire romance subgenre and becoming a global phenomenon. The four-book series follows the introspective teenager Bella Swan as she moves to the perpetually overcast town of Forks, Washington, and finds herself inexplicably drawn to the mysterious and alluring Edward Cullen, who she soon discovers is a vampire. Their story explores themes of forbidden love, mortality, and the intense, all-consuming nature of a first romance.
The series' monumental success, with over 160 million copies sold worldwide and five blockbuster film adaptations, cemented its status as one of the most popular ya book series of the 21st century. Its influence extended far beyond book sales, sparking a massive fan fiction community and defining a new era of paranormal romance that dominated the young adult market for years.
Why It's a Must-Read
Twilight excels at creating an addictive and immersive romantic fantasy. The central relationship between Bella and Edward is the undeniable core of its appeal, offering a potent blend of danger, devotion, and high-stakes drama. It's a quintessential comfort read for those who enjoy character-driven stories centered on epic, supernatural love.
How to Get Started
Reading Order: Start with Twilight and proceed chronologically through New Moon, Eclipse, and Breaking Dawn. For an added layer, consider reading Midnight Sun, which retells the first book from Edward Cullen's perspective.
Best Experience: Approach the series understanding it is a romantic fantasy. Its strength lies in its emotional escapism rather than realistic relationship dynamics.
When to Read: This saga is ideal for readers looking for a sweeping, dramatic romance with a supernatural twist. It's a perfect entry point for the paranormal romance genre and a nostalgic classic for longtime fans.
4. The Fault in Our Stars
John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars is a poignant standalone novel that has earned its place among the most impactful young adult stories of its generation. The book introduces readers to Hazel Grace Lancaster, a sharp-witted sixteen-year-old living with terminal thyroid cancer. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she meets the charming and endlessly optimistic Augustus Waters at a cancer patient support group, sparking a profound and unforgettable love story.
While not a series in the traditional sense, its immense cultural impact and thematic resonance make it a cornerstone of the YA canon, often grouped with Green's other beloved works. The novel debuted at #1 on the New York Times Best Seller list and its powerful narrative about love, life, and mortality cemented its status as one of the most popular ya book series-adjacent titles. Its success was further amplified by the acclaimed 2014 film adaptation starring Shailene Woodley and Ansel Elgort.
Why It's a Must-Read
The novel masterfully balances humor and heartbreak, tackling the immense weight of mortality with authenticity and grace. Green’s writing refuses to romanticize illness, instead offering a raw, intelligent, and deeply human look at what it means to find infinite meaning within a finite number of days. Its characters are witty and relatable, making their journey all the more moving.
How to Get Started
Reading Order: As a standalone novel, you can dive right into The Fault in Our Stars. If you enjoy John Green's distinctive style, you can explore his other works like Looking for Alaska or Paper Towns next. You can find more about his bibliography on his official website.
Best Experience: Have tissues at the ready. This story is celebrated for its emotional depth and is an excellent choice for a book club, as it opens the door to meaningful discussions about life's biggest questions.
When to Read: Read this when you are in the mood for a thought-provoking, emotionally resonant story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished the last page. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate realistic fiction that doesn't shy away from difficult topics.
5. Divergent Series
Veronica Roth’s Divergent trilogy thrust readers into a gripping, high-stakes future Chicago where society is partitioned into five factions, each dedicated to a specific virtue. The series introduces Beatrice "Tris" Prior, a sixteen-year-old who discovers she is "Divergent," meaning she doesn't fit into any single faction. This secret puts her life in danger as she uncovers a sinister plot to eliminate all Divergents and seize control of their fractured world.
This series became a cornerstone of the dystopian boom, cementing its place as one of the most popular ya book series of the 2010s. With over 35 million copies sold globally and a successful film trilogy starring Shailene Woodley, its impact is undeniable. The story’s strength lies in its fast-paced action, compelling moral dilemmas, and the central theme of forging one’s own identity against societal pressures.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Divergent series excels at exploring the complexities of identity, choice, and conformity. Its faction-based society provides a fascinating, if flawed, framework for examining human nature and the dangers of putting people into boxes. Tris’s journey from a quiet, selfless girl to a brave, decisive warrior is both empowering and deeply resonant for young adult readers.
How to Get Started
Reading Order: Start with Divergent, followed by Insurgent, and conclude with Allegiant. The narrative is strictly chronological. For additional context, the prequel Four: A Divergent Collection can be read after the main trilogy.
Best Experience: For a deeper understanding of the world, try mapping out the five factions (Abnegation, Amity, Candor, Dauntless, Erudite) and their manifestos as you read. This enhances the political and social intrigue of the story.
When to Read: This series is perfect for readers who love action-packed dystopian fiction like The Hunger Games. It’s a compelling choice for those interested in stories centered on identity, rebellion, and a strong female protagonist.
6. Percy Jackson & The Olympians
Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson & The Olympians series revitalized interest in mythology for a new generation by brilliantly blending ancient Greek legends with modern American life. The five-book series introduces Percy Jackson, a snarky and relatable teenager with ADHD and dyslexia who discovers he is a demigod, the son of the sea god Poseidon. He is brought to Camp Half-Blood, a sanctuary for other demigods, where he learns to harness his powers, undertakes perilous quests, and attempts to prevent a catastrophic war among the gods.
This series has earned its place as one of the most popular ya book series by making mythology accessible, humorous, and action-packed. With over 180 million copies of Riordan's books sold worldwide, its influence is undeniable, spawning multiple spin-off series and a successful Disney+ adaptation. The story’s strength lies in its witty narration, fast-paced adventure, and heartfelt exploration of friendship, identity, and heroism.
Why It's a Must-Read
The series is celebrated for its clever reinterpretation of Greek myths, presenting legendary figures and monsters in contemporary, often hilarious, contexts. Percy’s struggles with his learning differences are framed as strengths in the demigod world, providing powerful and positive representation. The seamless integration of lore makes learning about mythology feel like an exciting discovery rather than a history lesson.
How to Get Started
Reading Order: Start with The Lightning Thief and proceed chronologically through the five main books. The overarching plot is tightly woven, and character development builds significantly with each installment.
Best Experience: For readers who love interconnected stories, continue with the spin-off series like The Heroes of Olympus and The Trials of Apollo to see the universe expand with new characters and mythologies.
When to Read: This series is perfect for readers who love adventure, humor, and fantasy. It is especially rewarding for those interested in mythology or looking for a character-driven saga with high stakes and a lot of heart.
7. The Maze Runner Series
James Dashner’s The Maze Runner series drops readers directly into a high-stakes mystery, beginning with a boy named Thomas waking up in a metal box with no memory of his past. He arrives in the Glade, a strange encampment populated by other teenage boys and surrounded by a vast, ever-changing, and deadly maze. Together, they must navigate the treacherous labyrinth and uncover the dark secrets of the organization that put them there.
This series cemented its place as a cornerstone of the dystopian boom, standing out as one of the most action-packed and mysterious popular ya book series of its era. With over 10 million copies sold and a successful trilogy of film adaptations, its appeal lies in its relentless pacing, intriguing premise, and a plot that continually expands, revealing a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by solar flares and a terrifying plague.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Maze Runner thrives on suspense and a constant sense of discovery. The mystery-box narrative keeps readers guessing, as each answer only leads to more complex and dangerous questions. Dashner’s world-building is immersive, creating a unique slang and a claustrophobic atmosphere that makes the Gladers' plight feel urgent and real.
How to Get Started
Reading Order: Start with the first book, The Maze Runner, and continue with the original trilogy in publication order. To get the full story, including the prequel novels that provide crucial backstory on the world's collapse, you can find the complete reading sequence in this Maze Runner series guide.
Best Experience: Due to its breakneck pace, this series is best consumed quickly to maintain momentum. The constant cliffhangers and reveals are most effective when you can jump straight into the next installment.
When to Read: This series is perfect for readers who love fast-paced, plot-driven thrillers with a strong element of mystery. If you enjoy stories about survival, conspiracy, and piecing together a fractured world, you'll be hooked from the very first page.
8. Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children
Ransom Riggs’s Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children is a uniquely haunting series that masterfully blends dark fantasy with authentic, vintage photography. The story begins with sixteen-year-old Jacob Portman, who, following a horrific family tragedy, travels to a remote island off the coast of Wales. There, he discovers the ruins of an orphanage and a portal that leads him to a secret refuge for children with extraordinary, and often strange, supernatural abilities.
This series earned its spot as one of the most popular ya book series through its innovative storytelling approach. The found photographs are not just illustrations; they are integral to the plot, inspiring the characters and driving the narrative forward. This creative fusion of text and image, which became a #1 New York Times bestseller and inspired a Tim Burton film, offers a chilling and unforgettable reading experience.
Why It's a Must-Read
The series is a compelling exploration of found family, identity, and the beauty in what makes us different. The eerie, real-life photographs ground the fantastical elements in a tangible, unsettling reality, creating an atmospheric world that feels both historical and otherworldly. Jacob's journey from an ordinary teenager to a courageous protector is a gripping coming-of-age tale set against a backdrop of time loops and monstrous 'hollowgast' that hunt the peculiar.
How to Get Started
Reading Order: Start with Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children and proceed chronologically through the two trilogies. The first book sets up the world, and each subsequent novel builds directly on the last, so following the publication order is essential.
Best Experience: Take your time to appreciate the photographs scattered throughout the pages. They are key to the story's unique charm and atmosphere. Consider reading in a well-lit space, as the book's aesthetic and some plot points are genuinely spooky.
When to Read: This series is perfect for readers who enjoy visual storytelling and are looking for something different from traditional fantasy. It's an excellent choice for fans of dark academia, gothic fiction, and stories with a touch of horror.
9. Shadow and Bone (The Grishaverse)
Leigh Bardugo’s Grishaverse saga begins with Shadow and Bone, an epic fantasy that introduces readers to the war-torn nation of Ravka. The story follows Alina Starkov, a seemingly ordinary mapmaker who discovers she possesses a rare and immense power that could be the key to destroying the Shadow Fold, a swath of monster-filled darkness that has divided her country for centuries. As she is trained among the Grisha, Ravka's magical elite, Alina must navigate a world of political intrigue, dangerous alliances, and the immense weight of her destiny.
The Grishaverse has solidified its place as one of the most popular ya book series through its intricate world-building and interconnected narratives, including the beloved Six of Crows duology and King of Scars duology. Its success has spawned multiple New York Times bestsellers and a hit Netflix adaptation, drawing countless fans into its richly imagined, Russian-inspired fantasy setting.
Why It's a Must-Read
The Grishaverse stands out for its unique magic system, known as the Small Science, and its morally gray characters. Bardugo’s world feels lived-in and complex, exploring themes of power, belonging, and the cost of war. The interconnected nature of the series allows readers to explore different corners of the world and see events from multiple perspectives, creating a deeply rewarding reading experience.
How to Get Started
Reading Order: New readers should start with the Shadow and Bone trilogy to understand the foundational world and magic system. From there, move to the Six of Crows duology, which takes place after the trilogy and is a fan-favorite for its heist plot and ensemble cast. For fans of similar expansive fantasy worlds, you can explore the works of other authors, such as this guide to Sarah J. Maas's series.
Best Experience: Don't skip the companion books like The Language of Thorns. These illustrated collections of fairytales and myths add incredible depth and flavor to the world.
When to Read: This series is perfect for readers who love detailed world-building, complex magic systems, and character-driven stories with high stakes. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for a sprawling fantasy universe to get lost in.
Top 9 Popular YA Book Series Comparison
| Series | Implementation Complexity | Resource Requirements | Expected Outcomes | Ideal Use Cases | Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harry Potter | Moderate world-building, multiple volumes | Moderate reading time, some prior fantasy familiarity | Deep character development, immersive magical world | Young readers, fantasy fans, coming-of-age themes | Rich mythology, appeals across ages, strong morals |
| The Hunger Games | Straightforward narrative, dystopian setting | Moderate reading, some thematic maturity required | Engaging action, political and social reflection | Fans of dystopian, social commentary, fast-paced | Strong female lead, relevant social themes |
| Twilight Saga | Simple paranormal romance structure | Low to moderate reading investment | Romantic, supernatural love story with some complexity | Romance readers, paranormal fiction enthusiasts | Accessible writing, strong fanbase, romance focus |
| The Fault in Our Stars | Single realistic narrative, emotional depth | Moderate reading investment, emotional resilience needed | Thought-provoking, emotional journey through illness and love | Readers interested in contemporary realistic fiction | Honest illness portrayal, balance of humor & grief |
| Divergent Series | Complex faction system, action-driven | Moderate to high for world understanding | Identity exploration, fast-paced dystopian narrative | Dystopian fiction fans, action and romance seekers | Unique world concept, identity theme focus |
| Percy Jackson & The Olympians | Urban fantasy with mythology integration | Moderate, some mythology familiarity beneficial | Educational and adventurous, mythological learning | Mythology enthusiasts, younger readers | Makes mythology accessible, humor and adventure mix |
| The Maze Runner Series | Mystery and survival elements, expanding plot | Moderate, requires attention to detail | Tense mystery, survival narrative, dystopian world | Readers of suspense, dystopian action | Strong mystery, engaging plot, survival themes |
| Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children | Visual integration with dark fantasy, time travel complexity | Moderate, visual engagement plus narrative | Gothic atmosphere, unique storytelling | Fans of dark fantasy and visual storytelling | Unique photograph use, imaginative supernatural elements |
| Shadow and Bone (The Grishaverse) | Dense world-building, multiple interlinked series | High, requires attention to complex magic system and characters | Deep fantasy immersion with interconnected stories | Fantasy readers seeking rich worlds and series | Rich world-building, complex magic, diverse characters |
Your Next Adventure Awaits
The world of Young Adult literature is a dynamic and ever-expanding universe, brimming with portals to unforgettable adventures. The nine popular YA book series we've explored in this guide, from the magical halls of Hogwarts in Harry Potter to the dystopian arenas of The Hunger Games, represent the pinnacle of modern storytelling. They have not only defined a generation of readers but continue to captivate new audiences with their intricate worlds, compelling characters, and universal themes of courage, love, and identity.
Each series offers a distinct escape. You can join Percy Jackson in a world where ancient myths are dangerously real, navigate the treacherous political landscape of the Grishaverse, or uncover the secrets of a hidden home for peculiar children. These narratives do more than entertain; they provide a lens through which we can explore complex questions about society, morality, and our own place in the world.
Key Takeaways for Your Reading Journey
As you decide which literary world to dive into next, remember the core elements that make these series so enduring:
World-Building as a Character: The most beloved series feature settings that are as rich and detailed as any protagonist. Panem, the Grishaverse, and the wizarding world feel like real places, governed by their own unique rules, histories, and cultures. This depth is what makes them so immersive.
Characters Who Grow With You: Protagonists like Katniss Everdeen, Harry Potter, and Tris Prior are not static heroes. They are flawed, they make mistakes, and they evolve in response to the monumental challenges they face. Their growth is what makes their stories relatable and inspiring.
The Power of a Fandom: Part of the magic of a popular YA book series is the community that grows around it. Engaging with fellow fans, discussing theories, and sharing your passion for the story can enrich your reading experience exponentially.
Your Actionable Next Steps
Embarking on a new series can feel like a big commitment, but the reward is a deeply satisfying narrative experience. To make the process seamless, here’s a simple plan to get you started:
- Select Your Series: Revisit the list above. Did a particular synopsis catch your eye? Perhaps the high-stakes action of The Maze Runner or the epic romance of Twilight calls to you. Trust your instincts and pick the one that sparks the most curiosity.
- Confirm the Reading Order: Don't let confusion derail your journey before it begins. The most crucial first step is to confirm the correct reading sequence, whether it's by publication date or chronological order, to experience the story as the author intended.
- Start with Book One: Once you have your starting point, there’s nothing left to do but dive in. Find a cozy spot, open the first page, and allow yourself to be completely swept away by the adventure that awaits.
Ready to start your next literary obsession but worried about navigating a complex timeline or prequel novellas? For a definitive guide to the reading order of every popular YA book series, visit Books In Order. Our verified, easy-to-follow lists ensure you never miss a single moment of the story. Find your next series and its correct reading path at Books In Order today.
Tags: popular ya book series, ya fantasy, best book series, young adult fiction, must-read books