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Nineteen novels made SLJ's list of the most exemplary young adult books published in 2020. 

Nonfiction works and sequels don’t usually win the Printz, but this year many such books—about a thrilling escape from tragedy, an inspiring refugee story, and more—are serious contenders.

Short story and essay collections for teens can be a classroom tool, an introduction to a new author or genre, and an opportunity for readers to feel seen. These selections celebrate diversity and intersectionality, exploring identity in new and dynamic ways.

This year’s top YA titles help us escape, look inward, and navigate our times.

Looking for books for teens that feature Latinx protagonists? Check out these titles, running the gamut from contemporary immigration stories to science fiction. 

Teens have long been engaged in the world around them, and this year many of them may be voting for the first time. As you encourage young people to be civic-minded, recommend these election-themed YA books that tackle family, friendship, love, and making their voices heard.

Each month until the 2021 ALA Youth Media Awards on Monday, January 25, our Pondering Printz column will feature expert predictions and analysis of this year's Michael L. Printz Award by former committee members. This month our columnist asks, how can this year’s Printz Award contenders help us process our world?

These titles for middle and high school readers celebrate joy in the lives of Black teens and tweens. The characters in these stories laugh honestly, love fiercely, and exist wholly.

When the world feels heavy, when the days are full of restless energy, it feels great to sink into a book that can elicit some laughs. These teen titles explore complex topics with humor.