21 Best Books for 13 Year Old Girls | Must Read YA Picks

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

If your teen loves crime shows or detective stories, this fast-paced mystery is impossible to put down. Pippa Fitz-Amobi starts investigating a local murder for a school project, but what begins as research spirals into a real-life crime thriller.

With unexpected twists and a strong female lead, this book is perfect for fans of true crime, suspense, and smart storytelling.

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

Imagine waking up to find out you’ve inherited a billionaire’s fortune from a stranger. Avery Grambs is suddenly thrust into a world of riddles, hidden clues, and family drama as she competes to solve a mystery. If your teen enjoys books like Knives Out, they’ll love this one.

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

A fun, uplifting story about a girl running for prom queen—not because she cares about popularity, but because she needs the scholarship. It’s a funny, heartwarming book about self-confidence, friendship, and first love.

Genre: Thriller/Suspense

From the author of A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, this book delivers non-stop tension and jaw-dropping twists. A road trip turns deadly when six friends get stranded and realize someone wants them dead. If your teen loves edge-of-your-seat survival thrillers, this is a must-read.

Genre: Historical Fiction

Set in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam, this gripping historical fiction follows Hanneke Bakker, a teenager drawn into the Dutch resistance when she’s tasked with finding a missing Jewish girl. A powerful and suspenseful story about courage, morality, and survival.

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

This book is raw, emotional, and deeply relevant. Starr Carter’s life changes after she witnesses a police shooting, and she’s forced to navigate family, friendships, and activism. If your teen likes books that make them think, this is one of the most powerful YA novels out there.

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

This book is a deeply personal and emotional read. It follows Aza Holmes, a girl struggling with OCD while trying to solve a mystery. If your teen enjoys thought-provoking stories about mental health, friendship, and self-discovery, this book will stick with them long after they finish it.

Genre: Fantasy/Science Fiction

For readers who love magical realism and adventure, this book delivers. Aria discovers she has extraordinary abilities that connect her to the universe in ways she never imagined. A fantastic pick for fans of self-discovery and cosmic mysteries.

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

A book that celebrates being different. Stargirl Caraway is quirky, fearless, and completely herself, but not everyone at school appreciates that. A perfect read for teens learning to embrace their individuality and navigate social pressures.

Genre: Historical Fiction

A fun, sharp, and inspiring historical fiction novel. Jo Kuan secretly becomes an advice columnist in 1890s Atlanta, tackling racism, gender roles, and societal norms. A great mix of history, humor, and strong female characters.

Genre: Self-Help/Guide

Geared towards empowering tween girls, this book offers practical advice on self-confidence, handling peer pressure, and navigating the challenges of adolescence.

Genre: Dystopian Fiction

A book that makes you question everything. Jonas lives in a world without pain, suffering, or choices—until he’s chosen to receive the community’s hidden memories. If your teen enjoys books that challenge their perspective on society, this classic is a must-read.

Genre: Dystopian Fiction

This modern classic is still one of the most gripping books for teens. Katniss Everdeen’s fight for survival in a ruthless, televised competition is filled with action, strategy, and moral dilemmas.

Even if they’ve seen the movies, the books offer deeper character insights and richer storytelling.

Genre: Thriller/Indigenous Fiction

A slow-burn thriller about an Ojibwe teen who goes undercover to solve a crime in her community. Smart, thought-provoking, and absolutely gripping.

Genre: Dystopian Fiction

If your teen loved The Hunger Games, this is a perfect next read. Two teens from opposite worlds—a criminal and a soldier—collide in this high-stakes dystopian thriller.

Genre: Coming of Age Fiction

This is one of those books that sticks with you long after you finish it. It’s raw, emotional, and perfectly captures the struggles of growing up in a world that feels stacked against you. Ponyboy and his friends, the Greasers, fight to survive in a society that judges them for where they come from, and their rivalry with the privileged Socs leads to moments of heartbreak, loyalty, and self-discovery.

If your teen enjoys realistic, emotional stories about friendship, identity, and belonging, this is a must-read classic that still feels just as relevant today.

Genre: Fantasy

A fantasy adventure following Alina Starkov as she discovers her power and is drawn into a world of magic, war, and betrayal.

Genre: Fantasy/Mythology

The thrilling finale to the Percy Jackson series! If your teen has read the first books, they won’t want to miss this action-packed conclusion. Full of Greek mythology, humor, and epic battles, this series is always a winner.

Genre: Mystery/Adventure

A fast-paced, unique adventure about a boy with a rare skin condition who must avoid sunlight. When his father disappears, he uncovers a mystery that changes everything. Great for teens who love exciting, unpredictable stories.

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

A funny, heartfelt story about family, food, and standing up for what’s right. If your teen enjoys stories with strong cultural themes and humor, they’ll love Arturo’s journey.

Genre: Mystery/Drama

A unique, brilliant mystery told from the perspective of a boy with autism. When Christopher investigates a neighborhood dog’s death, he uncovers more than he expected. A great choice for teens who enjoy deep, character-driven mysteries.