Alte FriedmanThis article showcases our top picks for the best Feminist Ya Books. We reached out to industry leaders and experts who have contributed the suggestions within this article (they have been credited for their contributions below).
We are keen to hear your feedback on all of our content and our comment section is a moderated space to express your thoughts and feelings related (or not) to this article This list is in no particular order.
Full Disclosure by Camryn Garrett
This product was recommended by Lily Ugbaja from Mom Baby Heart
Full Disclosure is a story about a young lady called Simone who is HIV-positive but living life bravely nonetheless. Until her secret gets out to the wrong person and she has to decide whether to run or face her fears headlong! It is a story about courage, passion, love, self-identity, and owning up to your imperfections. It is an ideal feminist ya book that shows how a female can be beautiful yet powerful and not afraid to show her scars!
FlyGirl by Syd Blue
This product was recommended by Syd Blue from SydBlue
Only 6% of pilots are women, yet when Jill Townsend gets her hands on the controls of an airplane, she falls in love. The view from above it all is expansive and enlivening. Despite her frozen mom forbidding flying at first, this FlyGirl finds a way to become Captain of her life as she pursues a very non-traditional career in the skies, overcoming obstacles, scary mistakes and even a mischievous mentor.
Queen of All by Anya Leigh Josephs
This product was recommended by Anya Josephs from N/A
QUEEN OF ALL is a true feminist fantasy, in the tradition of authors like Tamora Pierce and Malinda Lo. It centers female friendship in all its intensity and complexity, and offers meaningful representation for Jewish, LGBTQ+, and plus-sized readers in its heroine, Jena. This story will be impactful for girls who love adventure and fantasy but don’t always get to see themselves as the heroes of these stories, as well as for anyone dealing with growing up, sexual orientation, the way friendships change in adolescence, and family struggles. The author worked as a feminist cultural critic and activist and is now a social worker, so her writing is focused on making meaningful change and steeped in the history of the intersectional feminist movement.
The Rise of Kyoshi by FC Yee
This product was recommended by Meggie Tran from Mindful Meggie
The Rise of Kyoshi contains the essential components of young adult, including identity exploration, conflicts in society, newfound independence, and a celebration of feminism and bisexuality. Kyoshi begins the adventure as an obedient servant girl but destiny calls her elsewhere — to be the hero the world needs. She eventually becomes a gamechanger in justice alongside her girlfriend, Rangi. The story is a thrilling, action-packed tale that I couldn’t put down until the end! Kyoshi inspires readers that wherever you are in life and no matter what people say, you have so much wonderful potential to unlock.
