5 Young Adult Books That Are Sorely Underrated

As we delve deeper into the autumn, the days are getting shorter and the weather is turning colder and colder (well, that also depends on which side of the Equator you're on, but those who have summer knocking on their doorstep, you may find some interesting stuff here as well, so bear with me), it becomes increasingly tempting to just stay inside the warm house and curl up with a good book and a cup of coffee.

Sounds good, am I right?

But what to read? There are so many books out there!

Well, even if you're a dedicated bookworm with a mile long to-read list, such as myself, it's always good to have a look out for more, because we bookish people are like that: there is no such thing as enough books! And long enough TBR list.

So, I decided to make a brief list of recommendations of young adult books that are fun, original and interesting, but nevertheless, woefully underrated. I will never know why! They definitely deserve more attention then they got, so here I'll show you some hidden treasures that will make for a great read. Pinkie promise!

1. Erin Morgenstern: The Night Circus

One of my favourite books of all time is this gem here! Magic, circus, dreams, star-crossed young lovers in a bit of Romeo&Juliet style and a special atmosphere that you can't find anywhere else. What else do you need?

If you like your books a bit more serious, mysterious, bittersweet and touching at the same time, look no further. THIS IS IT! This is everything magic should be, wrapped up in a book to keep you dreaming on rainy days about a circus that only opens when the sun is down and the stars are shining.
Also, it's not a series so that means no cliffhanger!

Learn more by checking it out on Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes&Noble

2. Victoria Schwab: The Archived

The next item on our list is this beauty, that is the kickstarter of a trilogy, but works as a stand-alone with an open ending as well. The Archived, while fits a lot more the general expectation when it comes to YA books, is dealing with some heavy stuff as well.
The humour is sarcastic and thourougly enjoyable but make no mistake: it's not a lighthearted read. It deals with death, and grief and letting go. And sometimes we need these books.
It's fast paced, exciting with loveable characters and an interesting world building, but it also gives you something more. There is a meaning behind the fun, and that's the best combination that exists in the world of fiction! And look how insanely beautiful it is! *drooling*

Learn more at Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes&Noble

3. Meg Cabot: Teen Idol

Oldie but goodie. Such a heartwarming, cute story! If one could wrap up smiles and nostalgia in a book, this is what it'd look like. Don't let the glitzy pink cover scare you, this is not about Barbie and Ken, I promise!
Seriously, you can't go wrong with Meg Cabot!
A small town, a good girl, some great quirky friends and a superstar who is trying to prepare for his next role by blending in to the high school crowd and getting a feel of the regular student life. You think you know where this is heading, right? Hahh! I thought I did as well. I've never been so happy about being wrong. Give it a try, you won't regret it!
I'd recommend this book to every teenage girl who felt like they are too ordinary, too good, too boring to have some interesting stuff happening to them!

Learn more at Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes&Noble

4. Kelly Oram: The Avery Shaw Experiment

If your face doesn't hurt from all the smiling you've done over Teen Idol, then Kelly Oram' absolutely endearing book will do the trick.
Avery is all about science, and she decided to cure herself from heartache caused by his best friend's unrequited love, by doing a series of experiments.
But she needs a partner, who ends up being Grayson, the brother of her best friend.
Feel the drama boiling yet?
This book is your typical average geek girl - cool guy combo, but it's done in such a sweet way that you just can't resist. A must-read for all the romantic nerds out there!

Learn more at Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes&Noble

5. Michael Grant: Messenger of Fear

If all that sweetness and sugar is not your style and you prefer mysteries, a touch of horror and crazy plot twists, this is the book for you!
The Messenger of Fear is certainly one of a kind, and it demands all of your attention. This is a book that will keep you up all night, because you want to know sooo much what is going on! It certainly happened to me, and I rarely get surprised, believe me.
There is a quite strong philosophical undertone, and it sometimes feels like it's lecturing you about right and wrong. But don't stop just because of that, because it will also give you a unique experience and some jaw-dropping moments that make it all worthwhile!

Learn more at Goodreads, Amazon and Barnes&Noble

So, that was my selection of underrated Young Adult books that are worth your time. Have I spooked your curiosity? Have you already read them? Got any other books to add?

Let me know in the comments below and happy reading!