Are you feeling a bit worn out by the same old book recommendations that seem to dominate every conversation? It’s easy to get caught up in the buzz surrounding bestsellers and highly acclaimed novels, but sometimes the real gems are hiding just beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered. That’s why we’re here to shake things up and shine a spotlight on some of the most underrated and overlooked YA novels out there.

Here are 13 underrated YA novels that deserve way more love and attention than they’ve been getting:

• Radio Silence by Alice Oseman: Join Frances and Aled on a journey of self-discovery as they navigate friendship, fandom, and the pressures of academia. Alice Oseman’s poignant exploration of identity, ambition, and the search for belonging is a must-read for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t quite fit in.

• When the Moon was Ours by Anna-Marie McLemore: Immerse yourself in a lush and lyrical tale of love, identity, and the power of storytelling. Anna-Marie McLemore’s magical realism transports readers to a world where roses grow from wrists, moons hang from trees, and love knows no bounds.

• The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo: Experience the power of spoken word poetry as Xiomara discovers her voice, her passion, and her place in the world. Elizabeth Acevedo’s stunning verse novel is a celebration of identity, self-expression, and the beauty of embracing who you are.

• Girl Made of Stars by Ashley Herring Blake: Follow Mara as she grapples with the fallout of her twin brother’s accusation of rape, confronting questions of loyalty, justice, and the complexity of love. Ashley Herring Blake’s powerful and timely novel is a heart-wrenching exploration of consent, trauma, and healing.

• The Space Between Worlds by Micaiah Johnson: Enter a multiverse where traversing alternate realities is possible—unless you’re too similar to your other selves. Join Cara as she navigates identity, privilege, and the consequences of her existence in this mind-bending debut novel.

• I’ll Give You the Sun by Jandy Nelson: Dive into the interconnected lives of twins Jude and Noah as they navigate love, loss, and the complexities of family and identity. Jandy Nelson’s beautifully crafted narrative alternates between perspectives and timelines, weaving a story that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking.

• The Weight of Feathers by Anna-Marie McLemore: Lose yourself in a tale of forbidden love between two rival families—the Palomas and the Corbeaus—as they navigate prejudice, superstition, and the power of storytelling. Anna-Marie McLemore’s enchanting prose and magical realism create a world where love transcends boundaries and feathers hold secrets.

• Words in Deep Blue by Cath Crowley: Explore the power of words, love, and second chances in a quaint Australian bookstore where lost letters and hidden truths bring people together. Cath Crowley’s heartfelt novel is a love letter to literature, friendship, and the enduring magic of books.

• The Bone Witch Series by Rin Chupeco: Enter a world of dark magic and political intrigue as Tea discovers her powers as a bone witch and navigates a society that fears and misunderstands her abilities. Rin Chupeco’s immersive world-building and richly detailed storytelling make for a spellbinding read.

• The Gilded Wolves Series by Roshani Chokshi: Join a diverse cast of characters in a lushly imagined alternate Paris as they embark on a high-stakes heist to reclaim lost treasures and unravel ancient secrets. Roshani Chokshi’s blend of history, magic, and adventure makes for a dazzling and unforgettable read.

• Wilder Girls by Rory Power: Step into the haunting world of the Raxter School for Girls, where a mysterious disease has transformed the students and the island itself. Rory Power’s atmospheric and chilling debut is a gripping exploration of friendship, survival, and the darkness that lurks within us all.

• We Set the Dark on Fire Series by Tehlor Kay Mejia: Explore a dystopian world divided by class and gender, where Dani must navigate a web of deception and rebellion as she confronts the truth about her society and her own desires. Tehlor Kay Mejia’s feminist dystopia is a timely and thought-provoking read.

• The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow: Follow January Scaller as she discovers a hidden world of magic, adventure, and forbidden love through a series of mysterious doors. Alix E. Harrow’s lush prose and imaginative storytelling make for an enchanting and unforgettable journey.

If you’re in the mood for something fresh, captivating, and a little off the beaten path, then look no further than these 13 underrated YA novels. Each one offers a unique and unforgettable literary journey that will transport you to new worlds, introduce you to fascinating characters, and leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.

Why stick to the same old stories when there’s a whole world of undiscovered treasures waiting to be explored? Whether you’re craving a dose of magic, a taste of adventure, or a journey of self-discovery, these hidden gems have something for everyone.

Pick up one of these underrated YA novels and prepare to be swept away on a literary adventure you won’t soon forget. Trust us—you’ll be glad you did!