13 best nonfiction for teens

Nonfiction for teens, also known as Young Adult (YA) nonfiction, is a diverse and growing genre that caters to the interests and needs of teenagers. These books cover a wide range of topics, providing information, guidance, and insights relevant to young readers. Here are some key aspects of nonfiction for teens:

  1. Diversity of Topics: YA nonfiction covers an extensive range of subjects, from history and science to self-help and memoirs. This diversity allows teens to explore their interests and learn about the world around them.

  2. Education and Learning: Many nonfiction books for teens are designed to be educational. They provide information in an engaging and accessible manner, making it easier for young readers to grasp complex concepts and facts.

  3. Personal Development: Self-help and personal development books aimed at teens often address topics like self-esteem, mental health, relationships, and decision-making.They provide guidance and advice to help teens navigate the challenges of adolescence.

  4. Biographies and Memoirs: Biographies and memoirs of inspirational figures, both historical and contemporary, are popular choices among teens. These books offer insights into the lives and achievements of notable individuals.

  5. Social Issues: YA nonfiction also delves into pressing social issues such as racism, gender equality, climate change, and activism. These books empower young readers to engage with and better understand the world's challenges.

  6. How-To and Guides: Practical guides and how-to books provide teens with valuable skills, whether it's cooking, coding, or mastering a hobby. These resources can be both educational and entertaining.

  7. Visual and Interactive Elements: Many nonfiction books for teens incorporate visual elements, such as illustrations, infographics, and photographs, to enhance understanding and engagement. Interactive features like quizzes and activities are also common.

  8. Relatability: YA nonfiction often speaks directly to the experiences and concerns of teenagers. Authors use relatable language and anecdotes to connect with their young audience.

  9. Award-Winning Titles: Some nonfiction books for teens have received prestigious awards, such as the Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature, recognizing their literary quality and impact on teen readers.

  10. Reading Levels: Nonfiction for teens is typically written at a level that is accessible to young readers, with clear language and explanations tailored to their age group.

  11. Educational Value: Schools and libraries often incorporate YA nonfiction into their curriculum to supplement learning and promote critical thinking skills.

In summary, nonfiction for teens covers a wide spectrum of topics and serves the dual purpose of education and engagement. These books are designed to meet the specific needs and interests of teenagers, making learning enjoyable and relevant to their lives.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best nonfiction for teens on the market
  

Brave: A Teen Girl's Guide to Beating Worry and Anxiety

Bethany House Publishers

Based on 44 reviews Check latest price

Product features

Catherine, 16—

“Sissy explained the parts of my anxiety that I’ve never been able to articulate. Being able to pull out the book and hear Sissy’s insightful tips in the exact moment that I was feeling anxious was so helpful. This book is a game changer!”

Kaitlyn, 13—

“I love this book because it feels like Sissy really connects with me and is having a conversation with me. It is important to know that you are not the only one who deals with worry and anxiety. Don’t let the Worry Monster get under your skin! God is always in control!”

Sydney, 14—

“This book confirms what I’ve always known: Sissy has the ability to really understand me! As a teenage girl who struggles with ADHD and anxiety, Sissy’s words encourage me and help me feel not so alone. Balancing funny with serious, she makes talking about hard stuff not so daunting. I know other girls will connect with this book and it will help them too!”

Hallie, 13—

“As someone who struggles with anxiety, I am very thankful for this book. It made me feel like Ms. Sissy was right there, sitting and talking with me. I related to all of her examples, and it made me feel not so alone knowing that other girls would be reading this and relating to it as well. This book will be something I forever hold close to my heart. I hope other girls can feel as thankful for Ms. Sissy as I do.”

The Finest Hours (Young Readers Edition): The True Story of a Heroic Sea Rescue (True Rescue Series)

Square Fish

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Four Perfect Pebbles: A True Story of the Holocaust

Greenwillow Books

Based on 679 reviews Check latest price

The 57 Bus: A True Story of Two Teenagers and the Crime That Changed Their Lives

Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR)

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Cloudbuster Nine: The Untold Story of Ted Williams and the Baseball Team That Helped Win World War II

Sports Publishing

Based on 383 reviews Check latest price

True or False: A CIA Analyst's Guide to Spotting Fake News

Feiwel & Friends

Based on 170 reviews Check latest price

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind, Young Reader's Edition

Puffin Books

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

The Code Book: The Secrets Behind Codebreaking

Ember

Based on 245 reviews Check latest price

I Want More Pizza: Real World Money Skills For High School, College, And Beyond

Overcome Publishing LLC

Based on 113 reviews Check latest price

The Running Dream (Schneider Family Book Award - Teen Book Winner)

Ember

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Because I Was a Girl: True Stories for Girls of All Ages

Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)

Based on 166 reviews Check latest price

The Boys Who Challenged Hitler: Knud Pedersen and the Churchill Club (Bccb Blue Ribbon Nonfiction Book Award (Awards))

Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR)

Based on 732 reviews Check latest price

The Healthy Cookbook for Teens: 100 Fast & Easy Delicious Recipes

Rockridge Press

Based on 164 reviews Check latest price

Product features

A look inside:

From family dinners to a whole chapter dedicated to 'main course dinners, breakfast to desserts, 100 recipes for every meal of the day.

Latest Reviews

View all