Book Recommendations for Teens

Explore new books from authors of color created by the Library’s expert staff to amplify and celebrate diverse voices, promote discussion, and expand understanding.

Our expert librarians have selected 2023's best books for teens. Check out these outstanding titles—plus discover accessible titles.

Find your new favorite reads with this collection of top titles curated by our expert librarians.

In honor of the 50th anniversary of hip-hop, check out these recommended reads that explore the hip-hop's influence and impact, including memoirs by landmark artists, explorations of fashion, fiction inspired by hip-hop culture, and more. 

Discover books for teens highlighting transgender, nonbinary, and gender nonconforming voices recommended by NYPL staff. Plus, discover which titles are available in accessible formats.

Explore books for teens that spotlight a range of experiences within Asian American and Pacific Islander communities—plus, find out which titles are available in accessible formats.

In honor of the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, the Library created Essential Reads on Feminism book lists, featuring titles that trace the history of feminism and the suffrage movement, its impact on the complex push for gender equality, and the issues and challenges that many women face today.

Explore essential titles for teens selected by the Schomburg Center as it marks 95 years of collecting and preserving Black history, arts, and culture. Plus, discover which titles are available in accessible formats.

New York City is many things: powerful, resilient, funny, fascinating, a center of culture and literary life—a city that contains multitudes. During the Library's 125th year, we pay tribute to the city we call home with a book list that reflects its diversity, energy, and life. Plus, find out which titles are available in accessible formats.

Celebrate the Library's 125th anniversary with 125 books just for teens, filled with stories and characters that will be sure to make readers think, laugh, cry—and perhaps recognize a part of themselves. 

Explore even more expert-curated lists filled with must-read books for teens across all genres. Or take a deep dive into The New York Public Library's research collections with posts written by our librarians, curators, and staff. Plus, discover the diverse array of programs, resources, services, and materials offered by NYPL.