Top 10 Best Book Series for Teens

There are so many amazing book series out there that it can be hard to decide what to read next. From magical adventures to dystopian battles to thrilling spy missions, the options are endless. You've probably heard of Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, and Alex Rider, but those are just the beginning. If you're looking for a new series to get lost in, you're in the right place.

This list is packed with must-read book series that have everything: action, unforgettable characters, epic worlds, and even a little romance. These books have been recommended by dedicated book lovers who know what makes a story impossible to put down. No matter what kind of reader you are, there's something here for you.

The Top Ten

  1. Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling

    Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling is a seven-book series that follows the adventures of a young wizard named Harry Potter and his friends Hermione Granger and Ron Weasley. The books are set in a magical world and explore themes such as love, friendship, and the fight between good and evil. Along with the main storyline, the series also delves into the history and politics of the magical world, as well as the complex relationships between its characters.

    Honestly, books are NOT my thing.

    But when I started reading Harry Potter out of boredom, I couldn't stop reading it! I always used to sneakily read it during class and boring history lectures. It absolutely takes me into a different world and gets me imagining all sorts of things!

    Now I'm really sad the whole series ended, and I already read the whole thing... But what the hell? I'm reading it again! BEST BOOK EVER! Love you, Miss Rowling!

    Harry Potter is my life. I first read it when I was 9, and I didn't put the book down. You live and die with all of the characters, and it's amazingly plotted.

    I wouldn't change a thing about it. Except... (spoilers) RIP Sirius. Harry, Ron, and Hermione are all relatable characters. Harry never backed down, and Snape never ceased to surprise us.

    I've lost count of the number of times I've read Harry Potter since that day 4 years ago when I first picked up the book.

  2. Percy Jackson & the Olympians by Rick Riordan

    Percy Jackson by Rick Riordan is a five-book series that follows the adventures of a young demigod named Percy Jackson and his friends Annabeth Chase and Grover Underwood. The books are set in a world where Greek mythology is real and explore themes such as friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery. Along with the main storyline, the series also delves into the history and politics of the gods and their interactions with humans.

    Bringing mythology to the modern world was a lot more interesting to read about than I thought. I was hesitant to begin this series but glad I did. Percy has an amazing way of narrating and is also very humorous.

    I loved the fights as well and how he never backed down, even when the situation seemed impossible. Annabeth was also a fun character to read about, and I wish there was more Grover in this series! Thank goodness there was another series following this one because I needed more Percy to read!

    I was always into Greek mythology, even before I started reading the series. Percy Jackson is my favorite book series ever, even beating Harry Potter for me, which is huge. It helped me learn a lot of mythology while keeping me hooked.

    I was reading one after another in two days, which actually isn't long at all for me. It's just my favorite series ever, and I was crying when it was over. Thank goodness for Heroes of Olympus.

  3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

    Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins is a three-book series that takes place in a dystopian future where a powerful government controls the population by forcing teenagers to participate in a televised fight to the death called the Hunger Games. The books explore themes such as rebellion, sacrifice, and the effects of power on individuals and society. Along with the main storyline, the series also delves into the complex relationships between its characters and the political machinations of the government.

    The Hunger Games is awesome. Also, a lot of the characters that died didn't deserve to die. Like Prim, Rue, Thresh, Madge, Cinna, President Coin (no, just kidding), and Foxface, to name a few.

    Anyway, the Hunger Games is an amazing series full of action and a great plot. One thing, though: the romance is really tacky.

    I think The Hunger Games is the best series of all time! I have read so many books, but none of them stick with me as The Hunger Games did. It had so many different ideas in one book.

    It's my favorite book series! I strongly recommend this series. The Hunger Games is by far the best book ever!

  4. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

    The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien is a three-book series that takes place in a fantastical world called Middle-earth and follows a hobbit named Frodo Baggins as he journeys to destroy a powerful ring that could lead to the destruction of the world. The books explore themes such as heroism, sacrifice, and the corrupting influence of power. Along with the main storyline, the series also delves into the history and mythology of Middle-earth and the complex relationships between its inhabitants.

    Beats all the book series all the way, yes, including Harry Potter. I'm an avid reader since the age of 6, and I've read hundreds of books. All I can say is that no books could ever best LOTR. I read Harry Potter when I was 16 and Lord of the Rings when I was 17, and I have to start telling people off for liking Harry Potter more after I finished reading both series. Yes, Harry Potter is a good series too, no denying that, but LOTR is just so awesome that it is indescribable in words. Those beautifully written characters, suspenseful story, and exciting adventures of Frodo keep you going all the way!

    And may I ask, why is LOTR ranked 5? And Darren Shan series third and fourth? Must be the crazy fans... Percy Jackson is a great series too, guys. Percy is full of humor, but he's a little dumb sometimes. Darren Shan books are like sleeping pills. I fell asleep reading them because they're boring. Seriously no offense. Anyway, LOTR is the best series ever written, hands down.

  5. The Saga of Darren Shan by Darren Shan

    The Saga of Darren Shan by Darren Shan is a twelve-book series that follows the life of a boy named Darren Shan as he becomes involved with a circus of supernatural beings and is turned into a vampire. The books explore themes such as fate, morality, and the struggle between good and evil. Along with the main storyline, the series also delves into the complex relationships between the characters and the history and mythology of the supernatural world.

    This is the series of books that really got me hooked on reading! I got the first book as a Christmas present and was immediately hooked. By February, I had read all of the books in this series. This series is one of my favorites, and I can honestly say I have read it about 5 times and can quote it!

    Because of this series, I have bought all of Mr. Shan's books. He has a section, a very large one I might add, on my bookshelf! He is my favorite author, and I have had the pleasure to meet him!

    I have to read this series again! It's full of action and very emotional. Because of my excessive talking about these books, my friends know everything about them, though they haven't read them! Love it so much!

  6. The Heroes of Olympus by Rick Riordan

    Heroes of Olympus by Rick Riordan is a five-book series that continues the story of Percy Jackson while introducing new characters, including Roman demigods, to the mix. The books are set in a world where Greek and Roman mythology coexist and explore themes such as acceptance, loyalty, and the balance between the two mythologies. Along with the main storyline, the series also delves into the history and politics of the two mythologies and the complex relationships between the characters.

    This should so be higher up. If you saw the all-caps explosion of fangirl above, that was me. These are perhaps even better than the original books. They are filled with great, lovable characters who had great, lovable flaws.

    They go through a lot and develop and change and live and die (maybe possibly, no spoilers here!) together. The seven main characters include characters from the old books and some new ones as well. There is rarely a dull moment, and they are absolutely worth the read.

    This should be up with the original Percy Jackson series. I love both series with all of my heart, and each one of the characters is so unique and amazing in their own ways.

    I'd recommend the books to anyone. If you haven't read them, do it. You won't regret it.

  7. The Demonata by Darren Shan

    The Demonata by Darren Shan is a ten-book series that takes place in a world where demons exist and can interact dangerously with humans. The books follow several characters as they try to survive in a world threatened by demons and explore themes such as identity, morality, and the nature of evil. Along with the main storyline, the series also delves into the history and hierarchy of the demon world and the complex relationships between its characters.

    I got the first book when I was in a mental hospital and was hooked. I only laid it down when I had to go to therapy. I ordered the next books to be sent straight to the hospital. The story is just wonderful!

    After the German ones were done (they didn't translate them all), I bought the following books in English without any hesitation. Kernel is so much like me, and Grubbs... Man, don't get me started on book 8! Darren Shan is an awesome writer!

    I started listening to the audiobooks, and because I know what will happen, I start to cry before anything ever really happens! Those books have really caught me and will probably never release me again!

  8. The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

    The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis is a seven-book series that follows the adventures of a group of children who find their way into the magical world of Narnia. The books are known for their Christian themes and allegories and are considered classics of children's literature.

    The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S Lewis are wonderful books to read, and I love them all, including The Horse and His Boy, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, and The Magician's Nephew.

    I really love these books very much.

    I have loved these since I learned to read. Even though the series is great for teens, it is also great for just about any age.

    Ok, I haven't read the entire series, only bits and pieces, but The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is amazing!

  9. Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer

    Artemis Fowl by Eoin Colfer is a series of science fantasy novels aimed at children and young adults. The books follow the adventures of a teenage criminal mastermind named Artemis Fowl as he becomes involved in a world of magic and mythological creatures. The series is known for its humor and action-packed storytelling.

    I like this series. Artemis is cool. I believe he is smarter than his younger brothers. He did a lot more impressive stuff than they did, and they have a super AI helping them!

    A very fast and exciting story. With its laugh-out-loud jokes and extremely modern technology, Artemis really hooks readers. A very new idea and a spectacular mix of myth, modernity, magic, and crime.

    Why is this so far down the list? Artemis Fowl is a great series, and the characters all got character development, and the plot is really exciting.

  10. The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare

    The Mortal Instruments by Cassandra Clare is a six-book series set in a world of demons, angels, and supernatural beings. The story follows a teenage girl named Clary Fray as she discovers her own supernatural abilities and becomes involved in a world of demon-hunting and magic.

    I absolutely adore this series! I just finished City of Fallen Angels (Book 4) and I am literally counting down the minutes until I can go get book 5.

    I have to say that my favorite series are Rick Riordan's books, but this series is amazing and seriously deserves to be a lot higher.

    I am obsessed with books. I have literally read all the books on this list plus more, and this series seemed like the best.

    I started reading it and literally finished the series in a week. I know, nothing is better than Harry Potter, but seriously...

    11. The Newcomers
  11. ?

    Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark by Alvin Schwartz

    This book series is a collection of horror stories for children, featuring urban legends, folktales, and ghost stories that are sure to give readers a good scare. The stories are accompanied by eerie and disturbing illustrations by Stephen Gammell, making the series a classic in the horror genre for both kids and adults.

  12. ?

    The Riftwar Cycle by Raymond E. Feist

    This series is a high fantasy series that follows various characters in the fantasy world of Midkemia as they face threats to their kingdom and world. The series spans multiple generations and features magic, politics, and warfare as central themes. The series is known for its complex world-building and engaging plotlines, making it a classic in the genre of high fantasy.

    13. The Contenders

  13. Warriors by Erin Hunter

    Warriors by Erin Hunter is a six-book series that follows the lives of feral cats who live in clans and must fight to survive in a dangerous world. The books explore themes such as loyalty, family, and the balance between nature and civilization. Along with the main storyline, the series also delves into the intricate social structures of the cat clans and the relationships between its characters.

    Such a deep series with so many lovable characters! These books have changed my life for the better in so many ways. Firestar showed me that you can be whatever you want if you just follow your heart. Tigerstar taught me to be careful who I trust. Jayfeather, Briarlight, and Cinderpelt taught me that even with a disability, you can still do great things! I also learned how important loyalty and love are from numerous characters. My favorite is Sleekwhisker, for anyone wondering. So thanks, Erin Hunter, for giving me the best series ever. I totally recommend it to preteens and teens because there is violence and gore.

  14. Zom-B by Darren Shan

    Zom-B by Darren Shan is a 12-part horror series about a teenage girl named B Smith who is living in London when a zombie apocalypse occurs. The series follows B's journey as she tries to survive in this new world while also discovering the cause of the outbreak. The books also deal with themes of racism and discrimination.

    Incredible! A good few twists that I wasn't expecting. Teen reading? No! It's for all ages!

    I just read the review, but I am interested. I hope I can read all of them ASAP! I always try to be a Shanster. Mr. Shan is amazing!

  15. Alex Rider by Anthony Horowitz

    Alex Rider by Anthony Horowitz is a series of spy novels aimed at young adults. The books follow the adventures of teenage spy Alex Rider as he goes on missions for the British government. The series is known for its fast-paced action and exciting plot twists.

    Spectacular series! It's my favorite, and once I started reading it, I couldn't stop!

    And what about this Darren Shan thing? I have never heard of it, and I don't think it deserves to rank ahead of sensational books like The Hunger Games, Percy Jackson, and Alex Rider!

    Who agrees with me? Give me a thumbs up!

    A wonderful and completely original story. Action-packed and ingenious.

    It never has a dull moment and is filled with excitement. Alex Rider is a reluctant teenage spy working for MI6, and in my opinion, it's the best series!

  16. Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

    The Diary of the Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney is a series of humorous novels aimed at children and young adults. The books are written in the form of a diary and follow the misadventures of a middle school student named Greg Heffley. The series has become extremely popular and has spawned a successful film franchise.

    Go Greg, go! You are the awesome protagonist of my favorite book series, which is ranked here on number... 13?!? This low?!?

    I like the format of these books. There are drawings and lined paper inside. This book is great, and I like the type of writing.

    Like, DUH! It's really popular, and who doesn't know about these books?

  17. The Maze Runner by James Dashner

    Maze Runner Series by James Dashner is a dystopian young adult series set in a post-apocalyptic world. The story follows a group of teenagers who are trapped in a deadly maze and must find a way to escape. The series explores themes of survival, identity, and sacrifice.

    This trilogy was one of the best I've ever read. James Dashner is an excellent writer and isn't afraid to add curveballs here and there. You will never put the books down, so don't expect a lot of sleep. I usually don't cry when I read, but reading this, I was crying, laughing, getting freaked out, living, and dying with all of the characters. After finishing, you won't know what to do with your life! This trilogy will make you forget that you even exist, and you'll be transported to another world. Anyone looking for a good read should definitely go to the library and check out the Maze Runner trilogy!

    The thing about the Maze Runner trilogy is the fact that you will always face twists, no matter at what point. And even though you know about what's probably gonna happen, you will still be surprised.

    The only problem with these books is that they are addictive. Especially the first book, which is like a moving film that doesn't stop.

    Dashner knows what he's doing, and though the last book suffers from the same thing as the latest books of The Hunger Games and Divergent, it has the most surprising ending of them all.

  18. Divergent by Veronica Roth

    Divergent by Veronica Roth is a young adult dystopian series set in a post-apocalyptic Chicago. The story follows a teenager named Beatrice "Tris" Prior as she navigates a society divided into factions based on personality traits. The series explores themes of identity, belonging, and rebellion.

    This series was not afraid to do things differently, to throw in a curveball here and there. I am an avid reader, so I don't cry when reading, but this one did. It made me cry and hurt, and I couldn't put it down.

    Amazing! This book had me hooked from the start, and I read the rest nonstop. This was a compelling story of love, compassion, and the true meaning of bravery.

    This book series is amazing! It is clearly the best. You will surely be disappointed when it ends.

    I want to read them over again. Veronica Roth did a fantastic job. This should without a doubt be at the top of the list!

  19. The Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer

    The Twilight Series by Stephenie Meyer is a young adult paranormal romance series that centers on the relationship between a teenage girl named Bella Swan and a vampire named Edward Cullen. The series explores themes of love, loyalty, and the struggle between good and evil. The books have become incredibly popular and have been adapted into a successful film franchise.

    Stephenie Meyer has the underrated ability to create fascinating dynamics between the characters and make you visualize stunning landscapes through sophisticated descriptions better than probably any other author. The way her books are re-readable to the extent that you never get tired of them, and how she can smoothly integrate humor and tension into almost any scenario, along with a hundred other things, are why I voted.

    The Twilight Series from Stephenie Meyer is a must-read. My favorite book in the series is New Moon, and I am team Jacob all the way through the book series because Taylor Lautner is so handsome, so adorable, and has awesome good looks.

  20. Lorien Legacies by Pittacus Lore

    I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore is a young adult science fiction series that follows the adventures of a group of aliens who are hiding on Earth from a deadly enemy. The story focuses on the fourth member of the group, John Smith, as he struggles to survive and protect his friends.

    Dudes and dudesses, seriously, read this. The whole series is awesome. If you're looking for a good sci-fi series to start reading, filled with plot twists and excitement, this is the one.

    At first, it may appear normal, but keep reading. You'll be surprised.

    Badass teenage aliens with superpowers train to fight an army of genocidal xenoforms responsible for massacring their entire planet. As that one meme says, "Still a better love story than 'Twilight.'"

    This is a good series. I love it. It is a really good series. I like it. It is really good.

  21. Goosebumps by R.L. Stine

    Goosebumps is a horror fiction series aimed at young readers. Written by R. L. Stine, the series consists of over sixty books, each featuring a different scary story. The books were first published in 1992 and quickly became a popular franchise. Goosebumps has been adapted into a TV series and several movies.

    Extremely chilling and addicting. Excellent writing and fast-paced.

  22. The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan

    The Kane Chronicles by Rick Riordan is a trilogy of young adult fantasy novels that draw on Egyptian mythology. The story follows two siblings, Carter and Sadie Kane, as they discover their own magical abilities and become embroiled in a battle against the gods of Ancient Egypt.

    I really feel like this series never gets enough credit. People are always saying that Percy Jackson is so much better, and I do agree. But just because this is by Rick Riordan doesn't mean that it's automatically a Percy Jackson book, even if there are crossovers. It's a different series and a totally amazing one. I totally fell in love with the characters and the plot and devoured it like I would any other good book.

    Ancient Egypt needs to be out there! How many book series are about Greek or Roman gods? These books were great, but I recommend reading them in order. It makes no sense otherwise.

  23. Skulduggery Pleasant by Derek Landy

    Skulduggery Pleasant is a fantasy series written by Derek Landy. The series follows the adventures of a detective named Skulduggery Pleasant, who is a magical skeleton. The books are set in Ireland and feature a mix of humor, action, and fantasy. The series consists of nine books and was published between 2007 and 2014.

    These books never get enough credit. I have never waited so eagerly for a book in my whole life. I was extremely disappointed when not many people knew this series quite well.

  24. The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan

    The Wheel of Time by Robert Jordan is a high fantasy book series consisting of fourteen volumes. The story is set in a world where magic exists and follows the journey of the Dragon Reborn, a man who is prophesied to save the world or destroy it. Along with a group of companions, he travels across the world to fulfill his destiny. The series was completed by Brandon Sanderson after Robert Jordan's death.

  25. Fablehaven by Brandon Mull

    Fablehaven is a fantasy series written by Brandon Mull. The series follows the adventures of Kendra and Seth Sorenson, who discover that their grandparents are the caretakers of a magical sanctuary for mythical creatures called Fablehaven. The series consists of five books and was published between 2006 and 2010.

    I have to say, Brandon Mull easily became one of my favorite YA authors. I originally got his book, "The Candy Shop Wars," for a road trip with my two boys (6 and 8 at the time). We fell in love with the story and the sense of adventure that pulled us in and left us invested in the various characters.

    So, for the next trip, the boys requested more by Brandon Mull. That's when I found Fablehaven. Wow! The story was absolutely amazing and had my husband and me on the edge of our seats as much as both the boys.

    The whole family binge-listened to this series, and the boys have both listened to it at least twice more each in the last couple of years. This series helped develop my kids' love for books, adventures, and reading.

  26. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

    Vampire Academy is a young adult paranormal romance series written by Richelle Mead. The series is set in a world where vampires and humans coexist and follows the story of Rose Hathaway, a Dhampir (half-human, half-vampire) who is training to become a guardian for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi (a peaceful, mortal vampire). The series consists of six books and was published between 2007 and 2010.

    Love these books! Amazing vampire world.

    The book should have a seventh part.

  27. The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis

    Parvana Series by Deborah Ellis is a four-part series of children's books that follow the story of a young girl named Parvana living in Afghanistan under Taliban rule. The series deals with themes of war, oppression, and gender inequality. The books were inspired by the author's experiences working with Afghan refugees.

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