True crime has an undeniable allure, drawing readers into the gritty, mysterious world of criminal investigations and the human psyche.
Young adult (YA) literature, with its unique blend of suspense and relatable characters, is an exciting playground for the true crime genre.
If you’re looking for the best YA true crime books to dive into, this curated list is your compass to an unforgettable reading journey.
Introduction: The YA True Crime Renaissance
Over the past decade, young adult literature has experienced a true crime renaissance.
From chilling murder mysteries to mind-bending investigations, YA true crime books have captured the imaginations of both young and adult readers alike.
Here, we present a selection of the best titles that promise to keep you hooked from the first page to the last.
1. Sadie by Courtney Summers
- Plot: A gripping blend of a podcast narrative and a missing girl mystery, “Sadie” follows the story of a determined teenager tracking her sister’s killer.
- Why It Shines: Courtney Summers masterfully uses multiple perspectives and formats, creating an immersive reading experience with a relentless pursuit of justice.
2. Stalking Jack the Ripper by Kerri Maniscalco
- Plot: This thrilling historical fiction novel introduces Audrey Rose Wadsworth, a young woman determined to uncover the identity of Jack the Ripper in 19th-century London.
- Why It Shines: Maniscalco weaves a captivating mix of forensic science, romance, and historical intrigue that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
3. The Female of the Species by Mindy McGinnis
- Plot: The book explores the dark side of humanity as it follows Alex Craft, a girl seeking revenge against those who have wronged her and other girls.
- Why It Shines: “The Female of the Species” delves into the complex psychology of revenge, anger, and morality, making it a powerful and thought-provoking read.
4. The 57 Bus by Dashka Slater
- Plot: Based on a true story, this book delves into the lives of Sasha, a non-binary teenager, and Richard, a young man who sets Sasha’s skirt on fire while they’re sleeping on a city bus.
- Why It Shines: Slater’s non-fiction narrative tackles critical issues of gender, identity, and justice, providing a deep and relevant exploration for young readers.
5. Genuine Fraud by E. Lockhart
- Plot: The story of two girls, Jule and Imogen, unfolds backward in time, with a web of secrets, lies, and murder that keeps the reader guessing.
- Why It Shines: “Genuine Fraud” challenges the traditional narrative structure and offers a unique, mind-bending reading experience.
6. The Naturals by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
- Plot: This series introduces Cassie, a teenager with a natural gift for profiling, who joins a secret FBI program for young criminologists.
- Why It Shines: Barnes creates a thrilling and suspenseful world of crime-solving, filled with engaging characters and intricate mysteries.
7. A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson
- Plot: In a small town, a high school senior, Pip, investigates an unsolved murder for her senior project, uncovering dark secrets.
- Why It Shines: This page-turner combines a modern setting with classic whodunit elements, making it an addictive and cleverly plotted mystery.
8. Little Monsters by Kara Thomas
- Plot: A dark and atmospheric tale about the disappearance of a high school girl in a small town, with secrets that slowly unravel.
- Why It Shines: Thomas crafts a chilling and atmospheric narrative, keeping readers guessing until the very end.
9. The Hand on the Wall by Maureen Johnson
- Plot: The final installment of the Truly Devious trilogy, where Stevie Bell races against time to solve a decades-old mystery.
- Why It Shines: Johnson skillfully ties up loose ends, providing a satisfying conclusion to this thrilling series filled with intrigue and suspense.
The World of YA True Crime Books is Diverse and Thrilling!
These novels are not just for young adults; they are for anyone seeking an adrenaline-pumping, thought-provoking reading experience.
Whether you’re a dedicated true crime enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these books are bound to keep you turning the pages long into the night.
Dive into these gripping narratives and embark on a journey into the captivating, and often chilling, world of YA true crime literature.
Vincent Salera
Founder @ World's Best Story™ amplifier of creativity & fun!
