1. “Rainbow Boys” by Alex Sanchez

The first novel in a trilogy focuses on not only out youth, but a closeted generation as well. This book is heartwarming and depicts some of the difficulties LGBTQ people must overcome.

2. “It’s Kind of a Funny Story” by Ned Vizzini

This young adult fiction/comedy novel is based on Vizzini’s brief hospitalization for depression in 2004. This novel focuses on mental health issues along with teen romance and funny experiences.

3. “I’ll Give You the Sun” by Jandy Nelson

This young adult fiction novel is told in two separate points of view, from Jude and her twin brother Noah, in different points in time. This novel covers loss, family, first love and betrayal. It is a thrilling reading experience.

4. “Letting Ana Go” by Anonymous

This fictional novel focuses on a young teen who develops an eating disorder and her strenuous journey to overcome it. This is a very touching book because it provides an insight on body image issues teens face due to social pressures.

5. “This Lullaby” by Sarah Dessen

This romance novel focuses on a teenage girl who has no faith in love partly because her father left when she was very young, and because her mother has gone through five marriages. Her view on love changes after meeting a young teenage boy, Dexter. This book is humorous and overall an entertaining read.