2020 is finally nearing its end, and we’re all heaving a collective sigh of relief! But just because the year didn’t exactly go to plan doesn’t mean there weren’t a few good things to come out of it. And on the other hand, quarantine definitely made us appreciate the songs, movies, TV shows, and books that saved us from mind-numbing boredom all that much more. Here’s YEM’s 2020 Top 5 List to look back on the best YA content this year had to offer.
1.Felix Ever After
A gripping story about a transgender teen grappling with his identity, family, and blossoming love, Felix Ever After is a 2020 YA novel you definitely won’t want to miss. Check out YEM’s interview with author Kacen Callender here!
2.How It all Blew Up
This book will take you on a journey through the ups and downs of life that make you cry and laugh – sometimes at the same time. At its core is a story of a young Muslim boy who finds himself in a precarious situation. Be sure to check it out!
3.Sia Martinez and the Moonlit Beginning of Everything
At first glance, this book looks like a typical YA romance novel. The story unfolds into so much more, featuring powerful passages addressing friendship, sexual assault, and grief. Check out YEM’s interview with author Raquel Vasquez Gilliland here.
4.Clap When You Land
Clap When You Land is a YA novel that follows a young girl through the turbulence of losing a beloved family member. It’s a must-read for any teen struggling to cope with loss.
5.The Invincible Summer of Juniper Jones
Told from the perspective of a mixed-race kid in 1955, this book delves into the topic of identity and how the world perceives us. The story embraces the quirks and the unconventional to say they all have a place in the world.
Honorable Mention: All This Time
