Timeless Books for Teenagers to Read

In a society captivated by changing trends and shifting fashions, there is something unmistakably comforting about the concept of a ‘timeless’ book. 

And, for young people, this couldn’t come at a better time. Thanks to social media’s ever-growing influence, teenagers and young adults have the ever-changing tide of what’s ‘in’ to contend with.

When it comes to the books on this list, however, there’s no expiration date on how trendy or relevant they are. Simply put, these books have been delighting, consoling, challenging, and appealing to young minds for decades — some even centuries.

The Noughts & Crosses Series , Malorie Blackman (2001- 2021)

Starting off with something relatively modern, we have a novel series written by British author, Malorie Blackman. Using the innovative concept of race reversal, Blackman’s stories unfold in an alternative 21st century Britain where ‘Crosses’ (dark-skinned people) control ‘Noughts’ (lighter-skinned people).

Prompting important questions to be asked about prejudice, racial bias, and power dynamics, Blackman’s fiction introduces essential concepts to young people without preaching. With well-defined, lovable characters for readers to latch onto, the narratives allow young readers to get up close and personal with alternative experiences than their own. 

Note: This book is suitable for ages 12 and above. 

The Lord of the Rings, J. R. R. Tolkien (1954)

Moving into more traditional and canonicalised material, every teenager should read The Lord of the Rings. 

When children are young, they are often enthralled by all things fantasy — from mermaids and dragons to castles and giants. But, as is so often the case, as children get older, they tend to lose their connection to ‘magic’. 

Tolkein’s timeless series is the cornerstone of epic high-fantasy, more than capable of allowing older children to fall back in love with the mystical and ancient. For young adults, especially, having a safe space or an alternate world — like Middle-earth — to visit becomes essential as they begin to navigate the complexities of their own lives.

Catcher in the Rye, J. D. Salinger (1951)

Although from a similar era, Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye offers less of an escape from the teenage experience as a mirroring or understanding of it. Few books in literature capture so vividly the angst and volatility that come with being a young adult in education than this book. 

Holden Caulfield, the charming — yet somewhat unreliable — narrator has since become an icon for the rebellious teenage spirit and speaks, even today, to teenagers of all ages seeking purpose and understanding in their lives.

This is the perfect book for any teenager perhaps struggling with school, friends, and fitting in.

Little Women, Louisa May Alcott (1868)

Travelling back in time to the Victoria era, Little Women offers an emotional and captivating coming of age tale. Free from the dark undercurrents of Jane Eyre, Alcott’s story follows Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy as they navigate what it means to grow up.

For many readers, Little Women becomes a book kept at the front of the shelf well into adulthood.

Heartstopper, Alice Oseman (2019)

Heartstopper is well on its way to becoming a modern classic. Speaking to and for millions of teenagers — both in and outside of the LGBTQ+ community — Oseman’s novel tells the tale of two British boys, Nick and Charlie, who meet and fall in love. 

Since its publication in 2019, Heartstopper has been illuminating the young, queer experience in colour for all to enjoy, navigating the ups and downs and first love, friendships, being gay, coming out, and dealing with mental health problems in a refreshing way.

Heartstopper — and the following books in the series — feels like a kind, warm, older sibling to teenagers looking for guidance and representation with sexuality, school, and everything in between.

The Perks of Being A Wallflower, Stephen Chbosky (1999)

Jumping ahead by a hundred years, Chbosky’s heartfelt tale is excellent for the quiet soul; teenagers who feel a little different. Teaching readers that it’s ok not to want to be in the spotlight all the time, 

The Perks of Being A Wallflower centres around a shy protagonist, Charlie, as he deals with the challenges that Freshman year throws at him. 

Each chapter is a letter written by Charlie and addressed to ‘dear friend’, drawing readers into an intimate friendship with this lovable character and forging a deeper understanding of his relatable worries, embarrassing moments, and observations.

Excellent reading material for any young person who feels ‘on the sidelines’ of their own life, this book reminds its readers of the inherent value in taking your time and being yourself.

The Burning, Laura Bates (2019)

Another modern soon-to-be classic, Laura Bates’ debut YA novel is essential for any teenager — though, especially young girls — contending with bullying at school and online. 

Powerful in its historical undertones, this novel tells the tale of a young girl who researches the witch trial in her village while being on the receiving end of somewhat of a social witchhunt herself. 

Laura Bates, feminist and author of the revolutionary Everyday Sexism, writes to uplift, teach, and empower young minds to stand up for what they believe in and be unapologetically themselves.

Bringing the harsh truths of the past in line with the present to reveal some shocking similarities, this book is a light in the dark for any teenager feeling as though their school, family, or even the world’s against them.

Discover more fiction for all ages

Whether you’re a parent looking to use literature to help your teen navigate tough times, or a young adult yourself after some gripping fiction just for you, we hope you enjoy exploring these titles. 

If you’re looking to branch out into mainstream fiction, head over to our latest reviews and top rated pages for some inspiration. And, as always, be sure to read our blog to keep your finger on the pulse of all things literary.