KIRKUS REVIEWS THE BEST 100 YA BOOKS OF THE CENTURY (SO FAR)

Naming just 100 titles as the best YA books of the century is daunting. How to weigh literary execution, cultural impact, authorial significance, and other factors? Lists such as these—like library collections—are meant for readers other than those who compile them; they can't be simply a self-indulgent gathering of personal favorites. But there's value in applying individual expertise to guide readers beyond the (many fabulous) bestsellers, celebrity book club picks, and award winners they already know. In that spirit, here is a spotlight on six surprisingly original, beautifully written, emotionally devastating books that appear on the list and deserve to be much better known. (Taken from Kirkus Reviews Article, by Laura Simeon • April 1, 2025)