Vampires, magic spells, and giggly teens -- these are just some of the words that come to mind when an adult comes across a Young Adult, or YA book. While YA books are especially marketed toward teens, some are also surprisingly interesting for adults.
Here are some YA books that are full of life lessons and pieces of advice which even adults can learn from. Beyond the usual YA themes, these books resonate to a lot of readers.
Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
"Stargirl" is a story of Leo and Stargirl, the eccentric, banjo-playing, boho-skirt-wearing new girl in school. While everyone in the school, including Leo, is dying to fit in the crowd, Stargirl stands out and charms Leo with her uniqueness and tuncanny ability to see the beauty in everyday things.
The book teaches its readers, young and old alike, to embrace their own weirdness and not to lose their individuality for the sake of fitting in.
Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Peterson
Don't be fooled by the title, the book does not have anything to do with romantically-charged teenage girls.
"Jacob Have I Loved" is the story of Sara Louise, or Wheeze, and her immaculately perfect sister, Caroline. While Caroline is pretty and delicate, Wheeze is the complete opposite, and she struggles everyday to overcome her sister's shadow. As time goes by, Wheeze realizes that competing against Caroline is useless, and therefore forges her own identity away from home.
To everyone who has a sibling, this book will definitely be relatable in so many angles. It is truly a timeless read.
Jessica Darling Series by Megan McCafferty
Jessica Darling is the best friend we wish we all have. In McCafferty's series, Jessica, the main character, goes through life with her unique sense of humor -- something most people can relate to, regardless of age.
The "Jessica Darling series" is like reading your teenage life in paper, only written in a snarkier tone. Watch out for major throwback feels as the books will certainly make one wish he/she was back in high school.
Lord of the Flies by William Golding
Death and the loss of innocence are just some the themes present in this YA classic. For those who are looking for something darker and more powerful, then "Lord of the Flies" is a definite must-read.
The book is a story about a group of young British boys who were stranded after their plane crashed on a remote tropical island far from civilization. At first, the boys marvel at the fact that they are now living on their own. But things turn ugly when the boys begin to elect leaders among them. Factions are formed and betrayal became apparent among them.
The Giver by Lois Lowry
Forget the movie, and read the book instead.
"The Giver" is about Jonas' journey to discovering the truth about the seemingly perfect world that he lives in, where hurt and suffering do not exist. Upon turning twelve, Jonas is given the incredible ability to hold the memory of the world, memories that nobody knows about except for the "The Giver" himself.
When Jonas realizes that these memories are too powerful and beautiful to be hidden from people, he decides to run away and break all the rules.
For all those times when we feel so powerless against society, the book tells us that standing up for what one believes in is worth a shot.
Through YA books, adults can see life in a different perspective, and maybe even learn cherish the past and appreciate the present. Books meant for the younger generation does not mean they would not strike a familiar chord among the older audience.
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