Nonfiction books have a unique power to transform lives by opening our eyes to real-world experiences and inspiring us to take action. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or a teen reader, this list of the best nonfiction books for teens will provide you with stories that will inspire, educate, and empower young minds.
Inspirational Stories
“I Am Malala: The Girl Who Stood Up for Education and Was Shot by the Taliban” by Malala Yousafzai
Malala Yousafzai’s story is nothing short of extraordinary. As a young girl in Pakistan, she stood up for her right to education, and her bravery made her a global symbol of peaceful protest. Malala’s memoir, “I Am Malala,” is not just a tale of her life but a testament to the power of education and the resilience of the human spirit.
I remember reading this book and being moved by Malala’s courage and determination. It’s a powerful reminder that even the youngest voices can make a significant impact on the world. Teens who read this book will not only learn about Malala’s fight for education but also be inspired to stand up for their own beliefs.
“The Diary of a Young Girl” by Anne Frank
Anne Frank’s diary is one of the most poignant and powerful accounts of life during the Holocaust. Written while she was hiding from the Nazis in a secret annex, Anne’s diary offers a deeply personal perspective on the horrors of war and the resilience of the human spirit.
When I first read Anne Frank’s diary as a teenager, I was struck by her maturity and insight. Her ability to find hope and beauty in the darkest of times is truly inspiring. This book is a must-read for teens, providing them with a historical perspective and a profound understanding of the impact of war.
“The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind: Creating Currents of Electricity and Hope” by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
William Kamkwamba’s story is a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. Growing up in Malawi, William faced famine and extreme poverty, but he didn’t let that stop him. Using materials he found in a local junkyard, he built a windmill to generate electricity for his village.
I was deeply moved by William’s story and his ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. This book is perfect for teens interested in science and innovation, showing them that with creativity and determination, they can achieve great things.
Social Justice and Activism
“Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption” by Bryan Stevenson
Bryan Stevenson’s “Just Mercy” is a compelling look at the American justice system through the lens of his work as a lawyer for the Equal Justice Initiative. The book focuses on the story of Walter McMillian, a man wrongfully convicted of murder, and sheds light on the systemic issues within the justice system.
Reading “Just Mercy” opened my eyes to the profound injustices that many people face. Stevenson’s dedication to fighting for the underrepresented and his relentless pursuit of justice are truly inspiring. This book is essential for teens, providing them with a deep understanding of social justice issues and the importance of advocating for change.
“Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You” by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi
“Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You” is a gripping and accessible overview of racism in America. Adapted for young readers, this book provides a thorough understanding of the history of racism and offers insights on how to be antiracist.
I found this book to be incredibly enlightening, and it’s an excellent resource for teens. Jason Reynolds’ engaging writing style makes complex topics more understandable and relatable, encouraging young readers to think critically about racism and their role in combating it.
“The 57 Bus: A True Story of Two Teenagers and the Crime That Changed Their Lives” by Dashka Slater
“The 57 Bus” tells the true story of an incident on a bus in Oakland, California, that changed the lives of two teenagers from very different backgrounds. One moment of thoughtless violence led to severe consequences and highlighted issues of justice, identity, and empathy.
This book is a powerful exploration of the complexities of human behavior and the impact of our actions. It left me reflecting on the importance of understanding and empathy, and it’s a crucial read for teens navigating a world where differences often lead to misunderstandings and conflict.
Gender Equality
“Brazen: Rebel Ladies Who Rocked the World” by Pénélope Bagieu
“Brazen” is a graphic novel that tells the stories of 29 women who defied societal expectations and changed the world. From scientists and artists to warriors and activists, these women’s stories are brought to life through Bagieu’s vibrant illustrations.
I loved how this book combined stunning artwork with inspiring stories. It’s an excellent way to introduce teens to the remarkable achievements of women throughout history, inspiring them to pursue their dreams regardless of societal norms.
“Becoming: Adapted for Young Readers” by Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s memoir “Becoming” has been adapted for young readers, sharing her journey from the South Side of Chicago to the White House. This adaptation highlights key moments in her life and offers insights into her experiences as a daughter, student, and First Lady.
Michelle Obama’s story is incredibly motivating, and this adaptation makes it accessible for teens. Her experiences and reflections provide valuable lessons on resilience, hard work, and the importance of staying true to oneself.
Personal Growth and Self-Discovery
“Laughing at My Nightmare” by Shane Burcaw
Shane Burcaw’s memoir, “Laughing at My Nightmare,” is a humorous and heartfelt account of his life with spinal muscular atrophy. Despite the challenges he faces, Shane approaches life with a positive attitude and a sense of humor.
This book is both entertaining and deeply moving. Shane’s story teaches teens about resilience and the power of laughter in overcoming adversity. It’s a reminder that while we can’t control what happens to us, we can control how we respond.
“It’s Trevor Noah: Born a Crime: Stories from a South African Childhood” by Trevor Noah
In this young readers’ edition of his memoir, Trevor Noah recounts his experiences growing up during apartheid in South Africa. His stories are both humorous and poignant, offering a unique perspective on race, identity, and resilience.
Trevor Noah’s storytelling is captivating, and his memoir provides valuable insights into the complexities of growing up in a divided society. Teens will find his journey relatable and inspiring, learning about the importance of embracing one’s identity and overcoming obstacles.
“This Book Is Anti-Racist: 20 Lessons on How to Wake Up, Take Action, and Do the Work” by Tiffany Jewell
“This Book Is Anti-Racist” is an interactive guide that helps teens understand and combat racism through 20 engaging lessons. Each chapter includes reflective activities and practical steps for taking action against racism.
I found this book to be incredibly practical and empowering. It provides teens with the tools they need to recognize and challenge racism in their own lives, fostering a sense of responsibility and activism.
Historical and Scientific Exploration
“Hidden Figures: The Untold True Story of Four African-American Women Who Helped Launch Our Nation into Space” by Margot Lee Shetterly
“Hidden Figures” tells the incredible true story of the African-American female mathematicians at NASA who played a crucial role in America’s space race. Their contributions were pivotal, yet their stories remained largely untold until recently.
Reading “Hidden Figures” was a revelation for me. The courage and brilliance of these women are awe-inspiring, and their story is a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity in science and technology. This book is essential for teens, highlighting the impact of perseverance and intelligence.
“They Called Us Enemy” by George Takei
“They Called Us Enemy” is a graphic memoir about George Takei’s childhood experiences in Japanese internment camps during World War II. Takei’s story provides a personal perspective on this dark chapter in American history.
This memoir is both visually engaging and deeply moving. Takei’s firsthand account offers valuable insights into the impact of prejudice and the resilience of those who endured it. Teens will gain a deeper understanding of history and the importance of standing up against injustice.
Conclusion
Nonfiction books have the power to open our eyes to new perspectives, inspire us to take action, and empower us to make a difference. The books on this list provide teens with valuable lessons and insights, encouraging them to think critically about the world around them.
Whether you’re a parent looking for books to share with your teen or an educator seeking engaging material for your students, these nonfiction books are a fantastic place to start.