10+ Best Must Read Books for 17-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Hey there! Are you on the hunt for the perfect page-turner or a story that sticks? Whether you're a bookworm or just looking to dive into some good reads, we've got you covered with our curated selection of must-read books for 17-year-olds. From captivating tales that mirror your own life adventures to those that whisk you away to fantastical realms, each book promises to be a memorable journey. Keep reading to discover our diverse lists of must-read books for 17-year-olds, tailored just for you!

Fun Must Read Books for 17-Year-Olds

• The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance, Tragedy
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Hazel Grace Lancaster, a sixteen-year-old cancer patient who reluctantly attends a support group where she meets and falls in love with Augustus Waters, a former basketball player and amputee.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching exploration of love and mortality, resonating deeply with emotional and philosophical themes that are relevant to teenagers dealing with the complexities of growing up.
  • Perfect for: Teens who appreciate emotional, thought-provoking stories and anyone dealing with personal challenges.

• The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Coming-of-Age, Epistolary
  • Synopsis: Through letters to an anonymous stranger, introverted high school freshman Charlie navigates the complex worlds of friendship, family, love, and mental health.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the essence of being a teenager with all its awkwardness and beauty, encouraging readers to embrace their individuality and pursue genuine connections.
  • Perfect for: Introverts and any teen feeling misunderstood or on the fringe.

• Cinder by Marissa Meyer
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Science Fiction, Fairy Tale Retelling
  • Synopsis: Cinder, a gifted mechanic in New Beijing, is also a cyborg. She gets tangled in an intergalactic struggle and a forbidden romance, as she uncovers secrets about her past.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a futuristic retelling of the classic Cinderella story that combines elements of romance and adventure, appealing to readers' imaginations and love for innovation.
  • Perfect for: Fans of science fiction and fairy tales, and those who enjoy stories with strong, resourceful female protagonists.

• Looking for Alaska by John Green
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Coming-of-Age, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Miles "Pudge" Halter attends Culver Creek Boarding School in search of his own "Great Perhaps". There he meets Alaska Young, and his life becomes irrevocably tied to her enigmatic allure and eventual mystery.
  • Why we recommend this book: It deals with profound themes such as the search for meaning and the impact of grief, providing a raw and compelling narrative that resonates with young adults.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy deep, philosophical questions mixed with the thrill of adolescent discovery.

• Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance, Drama
  • Synopsis: Set over the course of one school year in 1986, this is the story of two star-crossed misfits—smart enough to know that first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully captures the thrills and agony of young love and the power of connection to overcome life's challenges.
  • Perfect for: Anyone who loves a sweet, heart-wrenching romance that also tackles social issues.

• Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children by Ransom Riggs
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Fantasy, Mystery
  • Synopsis: After a family tragedy, Jacob discovers clues that lead him to a mysterious island, where he finds the ruins of Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children. As Jacob explores the abandoned bedrooms and hallways, he realizes that the children were more than just peculiar. They may have been dangerous, and they may still be alive.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling and mysterious read that combines photographs with narrative seamlessly, creating an engaging and imaginative adventure.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories with a mix of history, adventure, and supernatural elements.

Educational Must Read Books for 17-Year-Olds

• To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming-of-Age, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in the Depression-era South, this novel follows young Scout Finch and her brother Jem as their father, Atticus Finch, a lawyer, defends a black man accused of raping a white woman.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Ethics and morality, critical thinking, historical context of racial issues in America
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound and powerful exploration of racial injustice and moral growth, providing deep insights into human behavior and prejudice.
  • Perfect for: Students interested in American history, ethics, and social justice.

• 1984 by George Orwell
  • Genre(s): Dystopian, Political Fiction, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel presents a chilling depiction of life under a totalitarian regime that watches over every citizen's moves and manipulates truth and reality.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, political theory, understanding of totalitarianism and surveillance
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping warning against the dangers of totalitarianism and the loss of personal freedoms, which is increasingly relevant in today's digital age.
  • Perfect for: Young adults interested in politics, history, and critical examinations of society.

• Brave New World by Aldous Huxley
  • Genre(s): Dystopian, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel explores a future society that is seemingly perfect and free of pain, achieved through technological advancements, but at the cost of human individuality and emotional depth.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, social and ethical implications of technology, creative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It provokes thought about the balance between technology, government control, and personal freedom, encouraging readers to consider the value of true happiness.
  • Perfect for: Teens fascinated by science fiction and ethical dilemmas posed by technological advancement.

• The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
  • Genre(s): Classic, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: The story follows Holden Caulfield, a teenager from New York City, who is expelled from his prep school and his experiences in the city over three days as he struggles with the realities of growing up.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Analytical thinking, understanding of post-war American society, empathy
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the essence of teenage angst and the struggle against the phony elements of society, resonating with young adults everywhere.
  • Perfect for: Teenagers grappling with their identity and place in the world.

• Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book provides a sweeping overview of the history of humankind, from the emergence of Homo sapiens in the Stone Age up to the twenty-first century.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, critical thinking, understanding of human evolution
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers insightful analyses of key forces shaping human history, such as agriculture, science, capitalism, and politics.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds interested in a comprehensive understanding of how humans have shaped the world and themselves through the centuries.

Challenging Must Read Books for 17-Year-Olds

• Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace
  • Genre(s): Literary Fiction, Contemporary
  • Synopsis: This sprawling novel explores a multitude of themes including addiction, entertainment, and the complexities of the human condition, centered around a halfway house and a tennis academy.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features a complex narrative structure with extensive footnotes, a vast array of characters, and a depth of philosophical and cultural references.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a deep dive into modern American life with sharp, incisive commentary on the nature of entertainment and addiction. The complexity and breadth of the narrative offer a rewarding challenge for advanced readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a dense, thought-provoking novel that challenges their intellect and perceptions.

• Ulysses by James Joyce
  • Genre(s): Modernist, Literary Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set over the course of a single day in Dublin, this novel follows Leopold Bloom and a host of other characters, exploring the mundane and profound aspects of human life through an innovative stream-of-consciousness technique.
  • Why this book is challenging: Known for its complex language and style, allusions to classical literature, and non-linear narrative structure.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's considered one of the greatest literary works ever written, offering a revolutionary approach to storytelling and a deep exploration of life's trivialities and significances.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in the challenges of a highly experimental narrative and deep literary analysis.

• Gravity's Rainbow by Thomas Pynchon
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Postmodern
  • Synopsis: Set during the final months of World War II in Europe, this novel follows an extensive cast of characters, including Tyrone Slothrop, whose sexual escapades map the sites of V-2 rocket strikes in London.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its narrative is known for its complexity, with a fragmented storyline and a dense, allusive style that incorporates physics, mathematics, and history.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound examination of history, technology, and power, offering an intellectually stimulating experience with its richly layered narrative.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy tackling complex theories and intricate plots that challenge their comprehension and critical thinking skills.

• War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Epic, Philosophical
  • Synopsis: This novel chronicles the French invasion of Russia and the impact of the Napoleonic era on Tsarist society through the eyes of five aristocratic families.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its sheer length, numerous cast of characters, and the blending of historical detail with philosophical digressions make it a formidable read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a sweeping exploration of human emotion and society, and its historical and philosophical breadth provides a comprehensive insight into the human condition.
  • Perfect for: Those who are passionate about history and philosophy and are looking for a deeply immersive reading experience.

• The Brothers Karamazov by Fyodor Dostoevsky
  • Genre(s): Philosophical, Psychological Fiction, Crime
  • Synopsis: This novel revolves around the tumultuous lives of the Karamazov family and explores deep questions of faith, doubt, and morality.
  • Why this book is challenging: It delves into complex ethical debates and psychological analysis, demanding significant reflection and intellectual engagement from the reader.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a profound philosophical and psychological inquiry into faith, free will, and familial bonds, offering timeless insights into personal and moral dilemmas.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in psychology, philosophy, and deep moral questions.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're 17 and looking to dive into some must-read books, it's also a great time to develop solid reading habits that can enhance your understanding and enjoyment of what you read. Here are a few exercises tailored just for you to get the most out of your reading sessions.

• Set Specific Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on how many books you want to read in a month or choose specific times for reading.
  • How it helps: Helps in creating a consistent reading schedule and makes reading a priority.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Keep a Reading Journal
  • What it is: Maintain a journal to note down thoughts and favorite quotes from your readings.
  • How it helps: Helps establish a routine and keep track of reading progress and reflections.
  • Tips: Make it a habit of jotting down notes right after your reading session.

• Join or Start a Book Club
  • What it is: Gather a group of friends or join an existing club where members read and discuss books.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension through discussion and exposes you to diverse perspectives.
  • Tips: Choose books that will spark interesting discussions and ensure everyone gets a chance to speak.

• Read Broadly
  • What it is: Make a conscious effort to read books from various genres and authors.
  • How it helps: Expands your understanding and appreciation of different literary styles and cultures.
  • Tips: Regularly switch up your reading list to include something out of your usual preferences.

• Use Technology to Your Advantage
  • What it is: Utilize apps and tools that can enhance your reading experience.
  • How it helps: Technology can provide new ways of accessing books, such as audiobooks or e-readers, and tools for better comprehension.
  • Tips: Explore different apps that allow you to annotate texts or manage your reading list effectively.

• Reflect on Your Reading
  • What it is: Spend some time thinking about the book you've read and its impact on you.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding and personal connection to the reading material.
  • Tips: Try writing a brief summary or review of the book, discussing it with others, or even blogging about it.

These exercises are designed to not only improve your reading skills but also make reading a more integral and enjoyable part of your life. Whether you're reading for school, preparing for college, or just for pleasure, these habits will help you get the most out of your books. Happy reading!