You may have heard that TikTok has emerged as one of the main hubs for book recommendations, affectionately called the BookTok corner. As a 17-year-old, navigating the world of literature can feel like exploring uncharted territory, and BookTok has been my guiding beacon through the realm of YA fiction, especially during my internship here at Audible.
It's within this digital realm that I stumbled upon treasures like If He Had Been With Me and They Both Die at the End. After listening to these books, I recognized how they were a testament to the power of storytelling, reminding me that within the chapters of a book, anything is possible. And for that, I am forever grateful to BookTok for leading me to these gems that have enhanced my life in ways I never thought possible. The titles I have compiled below showcase just a fraction of amazing YA books that have captured the hearts and minds of readers and listeners like myself on BookTok. By using the power of social media, young adults have transformed the way we discover, discuss, and celebrate literature, marking a new era of digital book culture that shows no signs of slowing down.
Whether you’re new to the app or an avid fan, I hope you’ll be inspired by my list of trending YA BookTok faves. What are yours?
Melissa Albert's writing effortlessly weaves together intricate details and clever analogies, painting a vivid picture that immerses you in the story. The Bad Ones gained traction on BookTok by resonating with readers who struggle with understanding the complexities of why bad things occur and the deep frustration that stems from feeling powerless to address injustices in the world. Narrator Emma Galvin also had listeners hooked from start to finish—they couldn't stop listening until it was done! If you're into mysteries that keep you guessing until the end, this one's for you. It's like going on an adventure that feels just like real life, with all its ups and downs. Together, Albert's storytelling and Galvin's narration create an unforgettable experience that will keep you captivated until the very end.
If Only I Had Told Her is personally one of my favorite novels because it has tugged on my heartstrings more than any other listen. I’m a sucker for stories about second chances and regret, and author Laura Nowlin gives us that in spades. This story made me feel so much. We finally get to understand Finny's thoughts and see things from his point of view. If Only I Had Told Her gained traction on BookTok because Nowlin's fans have just been dying for more after her first novel, If He Had Been With Me. Being able to get closure for the two main characters, Finny and Autumn, was such a relief after the strife in If He Had Been With Me. Tyler Darby and Gina Rogers also get a shoutout for their outstanding narration in this well-written work, bringing Finny and Autumn to life and giving them the justice they deserve.
As a teen, I am just starting my journey of self-discovery and growth in life, and that’s what reeled me into this book. BookTokkers were eager to get their hands on this listen because everyone loved Amber Smith’s first, The Way I Used to Be. Reading both books at different points in my life was a journey that unfolded layers of understanding and emotion within me. The Way I Used to Be resonated deeply, revealing that everyone faces struggles, and it taught me not to judge others harshly, as they may be silently battling their own demons. On the other hand, The Way I Am Now brought a sense of closure, reassuring me that everything eventually falls into place as it's meant to be. It reminded me that life isn't determined by one single event and that one shouldn't allow any single experience to overpower them. Overall, Amber Smith's works left me feeling enlightened and empowered, with a newfound perspective on empathy, resilience, and the inevitability of life's twists and turns. The voice actors, Jordan Fisher and Rebekkah Ross, did an excellent job narrating Eden and Josh, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in the story and truly experience Eden's journey alongside her.
Highly Suspicious and Unfairly Cute quickly became a sensation on BookTok thanks to its irresistible charm and witty storytelling. What truly sets this book apart is its realistic character development and razor-sharp dialogue, which kept listeners and readers both laughing and swooning. Narrators Amina Koroma and Jonathan Andrew Hume skillfully bring the characters to life with their engaging performances that hook listeners in from start to finish. With its mix of mystery, romance, and humor, this book has won over young adult listeners everywhere, making it a must-hear for any book lover.
Better Than the Movies hits it out of the park with both the romance and the friendships. Main character Liz hopes for a perfect rom-com moment with dreamy Michael. But she may need her annoying neighbor Wes's help to get his attention. Hopeless romantics have been raving about this one on BookTok, and movie buffs have also been jumping on board with the plethora of rom-com references in Better Than the Movies. So, if you enjoy listening to a good love story or just want to laugh at Liz's quirky misadventures, this will have you smiling the whole way through—and might even bring a tear to your eye. Moreover, the audiobook narration by Jesse Vilinsky allows listeners to empathize with the character’s journey on an emotional level, which makes it a truly unforgettable experience for readers and listeners alike.
BookTok followers have fallen in love with the delightful geekiness and angstiness of Dungeons and Drama. Despite initial doubts about the main love interest's emotions, readers and listeners were drawn in by the character development and were left craving more. As a romance enthusiast, I thought this book offered a satisfying mix of heartwarming moments and laugh-out-loud humor. Listening to Riley and Nathan's story had me rooting for the nerd life and inspired me to embrace my own geeky side a bit more. The audiobook rendition, narrated by Eva Kaminsky, has been especially beloved by listeners for her masterfully delivered quirkiness. Dungeons and Drama might just make you want to host your own geeky game night that is filled with epic quests and cheesy snacks!
Returning to the mega-hit world of The Inheritance Games, The Brothers Hawthorne has dual story lines, and mysteries abound. Isn't it just incredible how Jennifer Lynn Barnes has that magic touch? She has this uncanny ability to hook you in and keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Many went through a roller-coaster of emotions for those last 100 pages! It's like she knows exactly how to tap into that adrenaline rush that keeps us listening long into the night. Jay Ben Markson's narration was a fresh touch for the series since we have moved away from Avery's perspective, and his performance did not disappoint. With its stellar narration and plot, The Brother's Hawthorne is the kind of book that makes you wish you could erase your memory just to experience the twists all over again!
