Best Young Adult Books for a Virtual Book Club

Running a virtual book club can be a rewarding experience, especially when your members range in age and location. Selecting the right books is crucial to maintaining engagement and fostering meaningful discussions. If you are looking for Young Adult (YA) books that can appeal to a diverse audience, here are some excellent suggestions that cater to different tastes while also addressing various themes relevant to your members.

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

This impactful novel deals with themes of race, identity, and social justice, making it a profound read for any age group. It’s also a great book for sparking thoughtful conversations about contemporary issues.

'The Hate U Give' is celebrated for its unflinching look at systemic racism and its effects on the individual and community.

Starr Carter, the protagonist, navigates her life between two worlds: her predominantly Black neighborhood and her private, predominantly white school. Her world is turned upside down when she witnesses the police shooting of her best friend, Khalil. This story weaves through Starr's journey of finding her voice and fighting for justice, making it a powerful book for anyone in a virtual book group to discuss and reflect upon.

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz

A beautifully written story about friendship, identity, and self-discovery, this novel addresses LGBTQ+ themes and tackles questions around cultural identity, which can resonate with a wide audience.

'Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe' vividly explores the delicate fabric of identity and the struggles therein.

Aristotle, an angry teen with family secrets, and Dante, a know-it-all with unconventional views, form an unlikely friendship. As they spend more time together, they come to discover profound truths about themselves and the world they live in. This book is as much about their individual journeys as it is about their bond, making it a rich source of discussion for book clubs.

Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

A heartwarming yet real narrative about first love and the struggles of high school life. This book touches on various issues such as bullying, family dynamics, and growing up, making it relatable for your members.

'Eleanor & Park' captures the bittersweet essence of first love and the harsh realities of adolescence with poignant detail.

Eleanor and Park, two misfit teenagers, find solace in each other amid the chaos of their personal lives. Their relationship blossoms on the bus rides to and from school, culminating in a touching yet realistic portrayal of young love. The narrative delves into each character's background, providing rich material for discussions on family, identity, and resilience.

Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

For fans of fantasy and adventure, this novel offers a richly built world and well-developed characters. It’s a gripping read with diverse characters that provide plenty of material for discussion.

'Six of Crows' is a masterclass in world-building, character development, and thrilling plot twists.

Set in the fantastical city of Ketterdam, this story follows a crew of six outcasts on a perilous heist. The novel's mix of adventure, magic, and complex character relationships makes it a standout. Each character's unique background adds layers to the story, providing ample opportunities for book club discussions around themes of trust, loyalty, and moral ambiguity.

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Though not strictly considered YA, this book is accessible to younger readers and delves deep into historical themes set during World War II. Its unique narrative style can prompt discussions about history, humanity, and the power of storytelling.

'The Book Thief' offers a haunting yet beautiful portrayal of life under Nazi rule through the eyes of a young girl.

Centered on Liesel Meminger, a young girl living in Nazi Germany, this story unfolds through the unusual perspective of Death as the narrator. Liesel's love for books and her ability to find solace in words amidst the horrors around her forms the core of this novel. The historical setting combined with its emotional depth makes it an excellent choice for book clubs wanting deeper, thought-provoking discussions.

Keeping Your Virtual Book Club Engaging

When choosing a book for your virtual book club, consider rotating through genres to keep things fresh and inclusive. Encouraging members to suggest books can also give a sense of ownership and engagement, fostering a more connected community.

• Choose a diverse range of books to cater to different tastes.
• Encourage open and respectful discussions.
• Make use of digital tools like video conferencing and dedicated forums.
• Plan fun activities related to the book themes - quizzes, costume days, or even virtual tours!

By selecting varied and compelling reads, and fostering an inclusive environment, your virtual book club can become a source of joy, learning, and connection for all its members.