Top 7 Action & Adventure Novels for Young Adults
Book RaiderBuckle up, dear reader, because we're about to embark on a world tour of thrills, spills and chills, all from the comfort of your favourite reading spot. Whether it's swinging through the jungles of South America, sleuthing in the rain-slicked streets of London or battling cyborgs in a dystopian future, our list of top & adventure novels for young adults has got you covered. Who said armchair travel has to be dull?
Now, let's not mess around. We know young adults don't want to be treated kids, but also aren't quite into the heavier worlds of adult fiction. We are sure to skirt that happy median line, delivering stories that are both engaging and age-appropriate. And if you're prone to devouring books faster than a bag of popcorn on movie night, fear not! This list has depth to match your appetite. Ready? Then let’s turn that first page and dive into adventure.
Divergent
by Veronica Roth
Why Divergent is on this list: Divergent has everything - action, adventure, dystopia, and a touch of romance - making it a perfect fit for our list. The thrilling pace and nail-biting suspense keep you turning pages faster than you can say 'Dauntless'.
Divergent takes us to a future version of Chicago, where society is divided into five factions, emphasizing a different virtue. Our protagonist, Tris, doesn't fit into any of these factions and is declared Divergent, leading to a series of adventurous, life-threatening events. It's a high-stakes game of survival, with enough plot twists to make you dizzy (in a good way).
What readers like: Readers adore Veronica Roth's intricate world-building, the relentless pace, and of course, our strong, relatable heroine, Tris. It's lauded for its gripping narrative and thought-provoking themes of identity and choices. Plus, the gentle romantic subplot is like a cherry on top of a very exciting sundae.
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I Am Number Four
by Pittacus Lore
Why I Am Number Four is on this list: Because it's a gripping page-turner full of action, adventure and even a bit of alien intrigue, that's just right for young adult readers who crave a good thrill.
This novel introduces us to the extraordinary world of John Smith, an alien from the destroyed planet Lorien who is hiding on earth from nasty extraterrestrial baddies looking to wipe his species out. When he learns he's next on the hit list, it's up to him and his friends to stand against the merciless predators. What ensues is a whirlwind of adrenaline-pumping and heart-stopping action.
What readers like: Most readers rave about its fast pace, captivating plot and believable characters. They also love the way the story blends suspense, adventure, romance and teen angst, with a good dose of life-on-the-run. Should you gear up for an all-night reading marathon? You bet!
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Alive
by Scott Sigler
Why Alive is on this list: This story takes a dive into the dark of action and adventure, with a twist of suspense that keeps young adults glued to its pages. It suits young adults who crave a thrilling journey through the unknown.
The story revolves around a young girl named Em wakes up in a coffin no memory of who she is or how got there. From there a heart-pounding, eerie journey as she navigates her way out with a group of, equally clueless and afraid. Together, they must survive the treacherous labyrinth filled with monstrous creatures and secretive traps, all while trying desperately to unravel the mystery of their existence.
What readers like: Alive is an obsession engineer. It's the twists and turns that make this story thrilling. Readers love the smart and resourceful characters, especially Em, who keeps pushing forward despite the odds. They also admire Sigler's storytelling prowess that strikes the perfect balance between suspense, surprises and the human will to survive.
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Legend
by Marie Lu
Why Legend is on this list: Legend offers the perfect blend of heart-racing action and thrilling adventure, with relatable young adult protagonists who are simply impossible not to root for.
Legend is the story of a renowned teenage criminal and the country's finest prodigy crossing paths, set in a dystopian future where the United States is divided between the wealthy Republic and the war-torn Colonies. Can two youngsters from opposite sides of the fence find common ground societal chaos?
What readers like: Readers enjoy the gripping plot, the seamless world-building, and the smartly-constructed characters of Day and June. The constant switch of perspectives between these two dynamic characters provides deeper insights into their actions and motivations, making the reading experience immersive and addicting.
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Scythe
by Neal Shusterman
Why Scythe is on this list: As an action-packed rollercoaster of a ride, Scythe is sure to whet the adventurous appetite of young adult readers. It has everything tension, excitement, and a fresh, original plot. It's a page-flipper that will keep you pinned to your reading nook.
The world of Scythe is one where humanity has conquered death, and to control population, Scythes are selected to 'glean' people. The story focuses on two teens, Citra and Rowan, who are drafted as apprentice Scythes - the very last thing they want. Strapped onto this merry-go-round of moral dilemmas and life-or-death decisions, they must navigate through political intrigue, personal ethics, and their dangerous duty.
What readers like: Readers love Scythe for its original storyline - it's not every day you're introduced to a utopia wrestling with the concept of mortality. The characters are incredibly human and their struggles with their heavy responsibilities resonate well. Plus, the action is relentless. It's like a Hollywood blockbuster in book form, without any of the cheesy lines.
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The 5th Wave
by Yancey Rick
Why The 5th Wave is on this list: If your idea of an exciting read involves alien invasions, survival, and young people showing more guts than a butcher shop, then look no further than 'The th Wave'. It's an action and adventure novel with young adults at its heart, making it a snug for this list.
Rick Yancey's 'The 5th Wave' takes reader on a suspenseful roller coaster ride in a postocalyptic world invaded by aliens, simply known as 'The Others'. The heroine, 16-year-old Cassie Sullivan, has to brave the world alone to find and save her younger brother, fighting off these mysterious extraterrestrial beings who have unleashed various waves of catastrophes to wipe out humanity. It's a riveting story about the strength of the human spirit when pushed to its limit.
What readers like: Readers have particularly praised 'The 5th Wave' for Rick Yancey's cinematic writing style which vividly paints each scene, the palpable tension throughout, and the raw, engaging characters who aren’t just teens but battle-hardened warriors. There's a dash of romance too to sweeten the whole doomsday-y setting. This one has all the makings of a page turner that will keep you reading under your blanket late into the night.
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Illuminae
by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff
Why Illuminae is on this list: If the hunger for adventure in space with relentless action is what your young mind craves, then Illuminae happily serves that on a platter. It's an action-packed space opera, which makes it an excellent fit for our.
So imagine this, two mega corporations battling it out in the infinite expanse of space, and our teen heroes, Kady and Ezra, right in the middle of this celestial clash. They end up finding out that the AI running the ship they escape to...has kinda lost it. Now, they have to navigate their way through a star-littered war zone brimming with deadly battleships, plague-infested space crafts, and a love-smitten artificial intelligence. All while trying to avoid a messy breakup. Good luck with that.
What readers like: Readers have admired the unique storytelling, where the tale unfolds through hacked documents, emails, schematics, military files, and IMs. The real-time action combined with the high-stakes drama is a total page-turner. It's not just the action; readers have warmed to the authentic teen voices, injecting humour and heart into an otherwise wildly chaotic situation. And yeah, 'love in the time of interstellar war' is a theme that strikes a chord with many.
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