a list of short books that are engaging and suitable for a 14-year-old reader:
- “The Giver” by Lois Lowry
A dystopian novel that explores themes of memory, individuality, and societal control. - “Holes” by Louis Sachar
A humorous and adventurous tale of a boy who is sent to a juvenile detention center, where he must dig holes as part of a bizarre punishment. - “The Outsiders” by S.E. Hinton
A classic coming-of-age story about teenage gangs and the struggles of identity, friendship, and family. - “Wonder” by R.J. Palacio
Follows the story of a boy with facial differences as he navigates school, friendship, and the power of kindness. - “The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank
The poignant diary of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl hiding from the Nazis during World War II. - “Tuck Everlasting” by Natalie Babbitt
A fantasy novel that explores the concept of immortality and its consequences. - “Bridge to Terabithia” by Katherine Paterson
A touching story of friendship between two young outsiders and their imaginative adventures in a magical world. - “Coraline” by Neil Gaiman
A dark fantasy about a girl who discovers an alternate reality that seems perfect, but hides a sinister secret. - “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie
A humorous and moving novel about a Native American boy who leaves his reservation to attend an all-white high school. - “The Westing Game” by Ellen Raskin
A mystery novel that follows a diverse group of people as they compete to solve a millionaire’s puzzle and claim his inheritance. - “The Graveyard Book” by Neil Gaiman
A blend of fantasy and horror that tells the story of a boy raised by ghosts in a graveyard. - “The House on Mango Street” by Sandra Cisneros
A collection of vignettes that offer insights into the life of a young Latina girl growing up in a Chicago neighborhood.
These books cover a range of genres and themes, so you can choose ones that align with the reader’s interests and preferences. Remember that reading preferences can vary greatly, so it’s a good idea to discuss options with the teenager to ensure they find something they’ll enjoy.
