Are you looking for reading recommendations for teens? We can help! Visit us in person or online to get great ideas for your next great read. For one-on-one help call or ask a Library staff member at any of our locations. You can also call, text, or email ask-a- librarian! Here are some more ideas to help you find what to read next.
- Follow our staff’s most recently published book lists on the library catalog home page.
- Don’t miss our If You Like… suggestions that cover all the favorite genres like science fiction, graphic novels, romance, and more.
- Join us Sunday nights at 8:30 p.m. on Facebook for Currently Reading where book enthusiasts offer their suggestions.
- Tune in every other Wednesday at 10 a.m. to the Indy Now Book Club with Ryan and Jillian on Fox59 for reading recommendations and IndyPL program highlights from your own local librarians.
- You can also get reading recommendations online from NovelList or Book Connections. Read book reviews, see “read alike” lists, browse starred reviews, and more.
Reading Recommendations for Teens – October 2023
Make a selection from one of the book lists below created by our staff of avid readers whose reading experiences and tastes cover about any interest you can think of!
Teen Horror Books
As if raging hormones, annoying parents, and having to navigate the high school and college experience wasn’t enough, these books and movies will give teens and young adults something to truly worry about. Adults might even find them scary too.
Native Voices for Young Readers
Commemorate Indigenous People’s Day (October 10th) and American Indian Heritage Month (November) by reading some books by Indigenous authors! Whether you want to learn more about Native culture and history, or want an exciting and original fiction story – this list’s got it all! You’ll find here books for elementary schoolers, middle-graders, teens, and young adults – there’s something for everyone.
Witchy Reads for Halloween
Get into the Halloween season with these witch-themed books and graphic novels for kids and teens.
Time Travel Graphic Novels for Teens
Check out this selection of graphic novels and manga from our teen collection that feature elements of time travel. These graphic novels are filled with chances to change the past/future, bearing witness to historical events, jumping between realities, letters from a future self, and manipulation of space and time by powerful beings.
Dungeon and Dragons Stories
This list is a look at some stories of dungeon divers, dungeon clubs, dungeon trainers and dungeons in general. Enjoy! See our full listing of Dugneon and Dragon upcoming programs.
Knitting Pop Culture
It’s hot outside! If you’re staying indoors, binge-watching movies and tv shows, try knitting while you watch. This winter you could be wearing mittens inspired by Little Women, a hat inspired by The Great Gatsby, a knitted Princess Leia’s snow vest, a homemade knitted sweater of your favorite Disney character, or a Hogwarts house cardigan.
Teen Manga
Explore the teen Manga collection at IndyPL! Manga is a style of Japanese comic books, aimed at adults, teens, and children. If you’re new to the genre, you’ll find the first book of many popular teen series here. Click on the book to find the rest in the series!
Teens in Peril in Space
Nothing spices up adolescence like killer aliens. Or hard vacuum. Or a sinister interstellar conspiracy.
In-Person & Online Book Discussions for Teens
- Event: Teen Book Club at East 38th Street
- Date & Time: Monday, October 23, 5:30pm
- Location: East 38th Street Branch
- Description: Join us as we read and discuss teen literature featuring authors and characters of color. This month’s title is “Piecing Me Together” by Renee Watson.
- Register Here
- Event: Teen Book Club at East 38th Street
- Date & Time: Monday, November 27, 5:30pm
- Location: East 38th Street Branch
- Description: Join us as we read and discuss teen literature featuring authors and characters of color. This month’s title is “Don’t Ask Me Where I’m From” by Jennifer De Leon.
- Register Here