The Greatest "Fiction, Children's books, Coming of age" Books Since 1990

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 300 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Fiction

Children's books

Children's books are a category of literature that is specifically written and designed for children. These books are typically aimed at readers between the ages of 0-12 and cover a wide range of topics, from picture books for toddlers to chapter books for older children. Children's books often feature colorful illustrations, simple language, and engaging stories that are meant to entertain, educate, and inspire young readers. They can cover a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and more, and are an essential part of a child's early education and development.

Coming of age

The "Coming of age" category of books typically refers to stories that explore the transition from adolescence to adulthood. These books often focus on the challenges and experiences that young people face as they navigate the complexities of growing up, including issues such as identity, relationships, sexuality, and personal growth. Coming of age stories can be set in any time period or cultural context, and may feature protagonists of any gender, race, or background. Overall, the genre offers readers a glimpse into the universal struggles and triumphs of youth, and the process of becoming a fully realized adult.

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  1. 1. Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban by J. K Rowling

    In this third installment of the popular fantasy series, the protagonist enters his third year at a magical school, only to find out that a notorious prisoner has escaped from a supposedly inescapable prison and is believed to be after him. As the school year progresses, he learns more about his parents' history, uncovers secrets about his professor, and discovers a magical map. He also learns to summon a powerful defensive spell, confronts the escaped prisoner, and uncovers the truth about his parents' betrayal and death. The book ends with him saving an innocent life and learning a valuable lesson about the complexity of human nature and the importance of true friendship.

  2. 2. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix by J. K Rowling

    In the fifth installment of this iconic series, the young wizard Harry Potter returns for his fifth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, only to discover that much of the wizarding world, including the Ministry of Magic, is in denial about the teenager's recent encounter with the evil Lord Voldemort. Harry is also beset by disturbing dreams while the sinister prison guards of Azkaban have been stationed at Hogwarts to protect the school, and Harry's budding abilities as a wizard are put to the test. Meanwhile, a secret society, the Order of the Phoenix, is working to fight Voldemort and his followers, and Harry's role in the coming conflict is becoming ever more significant.

  3. 3. Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince by J. K Rowling

    In the sixth installment of the series, the protagonist returns for his sixth year at a magical school, where he excels in potions class with the help of an old textbook once belonging to the mysterious "Half-Blood Prince". As he delves deeper into his enemy's past through private lessons with the headmaster, he learns more about the Dark wizard's history and his own destiny. Amidst this, the school is no longer the safe haven it once was, and danger lurks within the castle walls. The year ends with a devastating loss, setting the stage for the final showdown.

  4. 4. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J. K Rowling

    In the final installment of this popular series, the protagonist and his friends decide to leave their school to complete the mission left to them by their late headmaster - to destroy the remaining pieces of the antagonist's soul, hidden in various objects. As they journey through the wizarding world, they uncover the truth about the antagonist's past and the legend of the Deathly Hallows. Amidst the escalating war, they are captured and narrowly escape, leading to the ultimate battle at their school where many lives are lost. The protagonist learns he must sacrifice himself to truly defeat the antagonist, but is given a second chance at life and finally triumphs, ending the war. The story concludes with a glimpse into the peaceful future they have all earned.

  5. 5. The Golden Compass by Philip Pullman

    The book follows the journey of a young girl in a parallel universe where people's souls exist outside of their bodies as animal companions, called daemons. When her friend is kidnapped by a mysterious organization, she sets off on a quest to rescue him, armed with a truth-telling device known as the golden compass. Along the way, she encounters a variety of characters, including witches, armored bears, and aeronauts, and uncovers a sinister plot involving the children of her world.

  6. 6. Noughts and Crosses by Malorie Blackman

    "Noughts and Crosses" is a thought-provoking novel set in a dystopian society where racial segregation is reversed. It follows the lives of two main characters: a girl from the ruling class (Crosses) and a boy from the underclass (Noughts). Despite their different backgrounds, they form a deep bond that eventually turns into a romantic relationship, challenging the societal norms and prejudices. The novel explores themes of love, racism, and power, offering a poignant commentary on the repercussions of societal divisions.

  7. 7. Holes by Louis Sachar

    This book follows the story of a young boy who is falsely accused of stealing a pair of sneakers and is sent to a juvenile detention center in the middle of a desert. Here, the boys are made to dig holes every day as a form of punishment. As the protagonist digs, he discovers the truth about the warden's obsession with the holes, the mystery of a hidden treasure, and a curse that has been haunting his family for generations. The story is a blend of adventure, mystery, and coming-of-age themes.

  8. 8. The Story of Tracy Beaker by Jacqueline Wilson

    The book revolves around a feisty 10-year-old girl named Tracy Beaker, who is living in a children's residential care home (nicknamed "The Dumping Ground") as she is in foster care. Tracy has a wild imagination and often tells stories about her life, which is filled with dreams of her mother coming back to take her away. The book is written in Tracy's voice, with her drawings scattered throughout, giving readers a glimpse into her mind and emotions. Despite the harsh reality of her situation, Tracy remains hopeful and defiant, making her a relatable and inspiring character.

  9. 9. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

    In this enchanting twist on the Cinderella fairy tale, a young girl named Ella is cursed with the "gift" of obedience by a well-meaning but misguided fairy. This compulsion forces her to obey any direct command, leading to a life of manipulation and frustration. Determined to reclaim control over her life, Ella embarks on a quest to find the fairy who cursed her and break the spell. Along the way, she encounters ogres, giants, wicked stepsisters, and a charming prince, weaving a story of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of true love. Her journey is not only about breaking the curse but also about finding her voice and the strength to stand up for herself in a world that tries to define her destiny.

  10. 10. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

    The book is a young adult novel that explores the themes of nonconformity and self-expression through the story of an eccentric and free-spirited girl who calls herself Stargirl. She arrives at Mica High School in Arizona and immediately stands out for her unique behavior and homemade clothes. Her presence challenges the status quo and prompts varying reactions from the other students, ranging from admiration to hostility. As the protagonist captures the attention of the narrator, a boy named Leo, he finds himself drawn to her authenticity and spirit, but also struggles with his desire for social acceptance. The story delves into the impact of individuality on peer relationships and the courage it takes to be true to oneself in the face of conformity.

  11. 11. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

    The novel follows the unusual life of a boy named Nobody "Bod" Owens who, after his family is murdered, is raised by the supernatural inhabitants of a graveyard. Under the protection of ghosts and his guardian, who is neither living nor dead, Bod learns about the living world and the dangers it holds, including the man Jack who continues to hunt for him. As he grows up among tombstones and crypts, Bod explores the limits of his graveyard home, encounters creatures of the night, and ultimately confronts the sinister forces that took his family from him, all while trying to lead a normal life despite his extraordinary upbringing.

  12. 12. American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang

    "American Born Chinese" by Gene Luen Yang is a graphic novel that weaves together three distinct storylines to explore themes of identity, cultural assimilation, and self-acceptance. The book follows the lives of Jin Wang, a Chinese-American boy struggling to fit in at school, the Monkey King, a mythical character striving for acceptance among his peers, and Danny, a white American teenager dealing with his Chinese cousin's visit. Through these interconnected narratives, the book delves into the complexities of being an immigrant and the challenges of navigating multiple cultural identities in America.

  13. 13. Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

    The book is a humorous portrayal of the protagonist's daily life as he navigates the trials and tribulations of middle school. Through his diary entries, the reader gets a glimpse into his struggles with family, friends, and school. With a unique blend of text and cartoons, the book provides an engaging and relatable depiction of the protagonist's attempts to gain popularity and survive the school year, despite his many embarrassing incidents and frequent misadventures.

  14. 14. The Suitcase Kid by Jacqueline Wilson

    The book centers on a young girl named Andrea, known as Andy, who is struggling to cope with her parents' divorce. She is shuffled between her mother's new family in a cramped, unwelcoming house and her father's life with his new girlfriend, feeling out of place and longing for the past. Andy clings to a small suitcase filled with memories of her former life and her beloved doll, Radish, as she dreams of reuniting her parents and returning to Mulberry Cottage, the only place she ever felt truly at home. Throughout the story, Andy grapples with the complexities of a divided family, the challenges of adapting to new environments, and the journey towards finding a sense of belonging amidst the turmoil of change.

  15. 15. Tangerine by Edward Bloor

    The novel follows the life of a legally blind middle schooler who moves to Tangerine County, Florida, where he confronts a multitude of challenges ranging from environmental disasters to his struggle for acceptance in the shadow of his football-star brother. As he adjusts to his new surroundings, he uncovers dark family secrets and finds his strength through joining the soccer team at his school. The story is a journey of self-discovery, as the protagonist grapples with the truth about his impairment and the corrupt world around him, ultimately finding his place and voice in a community fraught with adversity.

  16. 16. Girls In Love by Jacqueline Wilson

    The book follows the life of a teenage girl navigating the complexities of adolescence, friendships, and romantic relationships. As she deals with the ups and downs of growing up, she and her two best friends support each other through their various experiences with boys, school, and family issues. The protagonist's witty and candid narration offers a humorous yet poignant look at the trials and tribulations of teenage life, capturing the essence of what it means to be a young girl in love and in search of one's identity.

  17. 17. Dustbin Baby by Jacqueline Wilson

    The book follows the emotional journey of April, a teenage girl who was abandoned in a dustbin as a baby. On her fourteenth birthday, she decides to skip school and embark on a quest to uncover her past. April's search for her biological mother and understanding of her identity leads her through various experiences, from her time in foster care to living with her adoptive mother. Throughout her day, she confronts the challenges of her past and the complexities of her feelings, ultimately seeking a sense of belonging and acceptance in a world where she has often felt discarded.

  18. 18. Girls In Tears by Jacqueline Wilson

    In this poignant coming-of-age novel, a group of adolescent girls navigate the complexities of teenage life, dealing with issues such as friendship, family, love, and identity. The protagonist and her friends face a series of emotional challenges and misunderstandings that test the strength of their bond. As they confront their individual problems, from romantic dilemmas to family disputes, they learn valuable lessons about trust, honesty, and the importance of communication. Through tears and laughter, the girls learn to support each other, illustrating the resilience of friendship amidst the turmoil of adolescence.

  19. 19. Lola Rose by Jacqueline Wilson

    The book follows the tumultuous life of a young girl who, after her mother wins a substantial amount of money in a lottery, adopts the name Lola Rose. Their windfall allows them to escape an abusive home environment and start anew. However, their fresh start is threatened when her mother becomes seriously ill, leaving Lola Rose to care for her younger brother and confront adult responsibilities far beyond her years. The story is a poignant exploration of family, resilience, and the challenges of navigating unexpected hardships through the eyes of a child forced to grow up too quickly.

  20. 20. Walk Two Moons by Sharon Creech

    This novel follows the emotional journey of a young girl named Salamanca Tree Hiddle, who travels across the United States with her eccentric grandparents to visit her mother's final resting place in Idaho. Along the way, Sal tells the story of her friend Phoebe Winterbottom, whose mother also disappeared. Through these intertwined tales of mystery, loss, and love, the protagonist grapples with her own grief and learns the importance of understanding and forgiveness. The narrative beautifully weaves themes of family, identity, and the complexities of human relationships, ultimately delivering a poignant message about the journey of healing and the power of storytelling.

  21. 21. Out Of My Mind by Sharon M Draper

    "Out of My Mind" is a captivating and heart-wrenching story that follows the life of Melody, a brilliant and determined girl with cerebral palsy. Trapped in a body that does not cooperate with her brilliant mind, Melody struggles to communicate and is often overlooked by those around her. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she gains access to a communication device that allows her to finally express herself. Through perseverance and the support of her family and friends, Melody embarks on a journey to prove that she is more than her disability and has the ability to achieve greatness.

  22. 22. The Higher Power Of Lucky by Susan Patron

    This children's novel follows the story of ten-year-old Lucky Trimble as she navigates life in the small desert community of Hard Pan, California, population 43. After the death of her mother, Lucky lives with her guardian, Brigitte, who has come from France to care for her. Yearning for stability and a true home, Lucky fears that Brigitte will return to France and leave her behind. Throughout the story, Lucky eavesdrops on the town's residents, searching for the "higher power" that she hears mentioned in the 12-step program meetings held at the Found Object Wind Chime Museum and Visitor Center where she works. Her journey is one of self-discovery, friendship, and finding her own "higher power," culminating in an act of bravery that helps her understand where she belongs and what family truly means.

  23. 23. When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead

    This novel unfolds in 1970s New York, where a young girl begins receiving mysterious notes that predict the future and seem to hint at a connection to her favorite book about time travel. As she navigates her daily life, dealing with the complexities of friendship, family, and growing up, she must also unravel the mystery of the notes. The story masterfully blends elements of science fiction with the poignant coming-of-age narrative, leading to a surprising and deeply satisfying conclusion that ties together the seemingly disparate elements of her life in an unexpected way.

  24. 24. A Kind Of Spark by Elle McNicoll

    "A Kind of Spark" tells the story of Addie, an 11-year-old girl with autism who is determined to fight for acceptance and understanding in her small town. Inspired by the historical injustices faced by those accused of witchcraft, Addie embarks on a mission to have a memorial erected in memory of the people who were wrongfully persecuted. Through her unwavering determination, Addie not only educates her community about neurodiversity but also discovers the power of her own voice. This heartfelt and empowering novel explores themes of identity, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right.

  25. 25. Merci Suárez Changes Gears by Meg Medina

    In "Merci Suárez Changes Gears," readers follow the life of Merci Suárez, a sixth grader navigating the complexities of both adolescence and her scholarship at an elite private school. As she deals with typical issues like difficult friendships and school pressures, Merci also faces unique family challenges, particularly her grandfather’s worsening Alzheimer’s disease. The novel explores themes of identity, socio-economic differences, and the bonds of family, all through the lens of a relatable and resilient young protagonist.

Reading Statistics

Click the button below to see how many of these books you've read!

Download

If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

Download