Best Ya Adventure Books of 2023

• Best Overall: The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi
• Best Budget: Willow of Ashes: YA Dark Fantasy Adventure
• Best Value: The Secret of the Sunken Ship
• Editor's Choise: Girl Island: The gripping YA adventure

• The Best New Science Fiction Books
• The Best Comic Book Covers
• Best Adult Fiction Books
• Best Mountain Books
• The Best Reverse Harem Books 

#1: The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi: A new fantasy series set a thousand years before The City of Brass

Specs:

• Title: The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi
• Author: Nafiza Azad
• Genre: Fantasy
• Format: Paperback and eBook
• Pages: 304
• Publisher: Scholastic Press
• Release Date: June 22, 2021
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1338712872
• ISBN-13: 978-1338712877

What we like:

• The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi is a captivating new fantasy series that transports readers to a world filled with magic and adventure. Amina is a young girl who aspires to become a successful trader like her father. Amina embarks on a perilous journey to find her missing father, encountering mythical creatures and magical beings along the way. The novel's incorporation of elements of Arabic mythology and folklore provides a fresh and original take on the fantasy genre. The well-developed characters and fast-paced plot make it difficult to put the book down.

What we don't like:

• Although we enjoyed the book as a whole, some readers may find the world-building lacking. Some readers may feel that not enough time was spent exploring the various cultures and societies that make up this world, despite the fact that the story takes place in a vast and intricate universe.

Our Verdict:

The Adventures of Amina al-Sirafi is a must-read for fantasy genre enthusiasts. The writing is exquisite, and the characters are engaging and relatable. Even though the world-building may not be as robust as some readers would like, it does not diminish the overall reading experience. This book is recommended to anyone seeking a thrilling and magical adventure. In the next installment of the series, we can't wait to see where Amina's journey leads her.

 #2: The Secret of the Sunken Ship: A fun and exciting mystery adventure for children and teens ages 8-14

Specs:

• Title: The Secret of the Sunken Ship
• Author: Molly Lazer
• Genre: Mystery, Adventure
• Format: Paperback and eBook
• Pages: 240
• Publisher: Aladdin
• Release Date: May 5, 2020
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1534457021
• ISBN-13: 978-1534457029

What we like:

• The Secret of the Sunken Ship is a suspenseful mystery adventure suitable for children ages 8 to 14. A group of friends attempt to unravel the mystery of a sunken ship and a missing treasure. The well-developed and relatable characters make it easy for the reader to become invested in their journey. The plot is engaging and fast-paced, with numerous plot twists that keep readers guessing until the very end. We appreciate how the book incorporates themes of friendship, teamwork, and tenacity, making it not only a fun read but also an educational one.

What we don't like:

• While we enjoyed the book as a whole, some readers may find the mystery's resolution to be somewhat predictable. In addition, the book may not be appropriate for readers seeking a more complex or mature plot.

Our Verdict:

Overall, The Secret of the Sunken Ship is an entertaining and exciting book that is certain to capture the imaginations of young readers. The book is well-written and captivating, with likable characters and a plot that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. While it may not be the most complex or mature mystery adventure available, it is still an excellent choice for children and adolescents seeking a fun and engaging story. We highly recommend The Secret of the Sunken Ship to all mystery and adventure fiction fans.

 #3: A World To Lose: A found family, YA fantasy adventure

Specs:

• Title: A World To Lose
• Author: E.M. Lindsey
• Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Adventure
• Format: Paperback and eBook
• Pages: 378
• Publisher: Independently published
• Release Date: December 7, 2020
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1716184625
• ISBN-13: 978-1716184622

What we like:

• A World To Lose is an exciting and captivating young adult fantasy adventure that follows a group of misfits as they band together to prevent the destruction of their world. The characters are well-developed and likable, each with a distinct personality and history. We enjoyed how the book explored themes of found family and loyalty as the characters learned to rely on and trust one another over the course of their journey. The world-building is also excellent, with a vivid and imaginative setting that is easy to visualize and enter.

What we don't like:

• While the characters are undeniably likeable, some readers may find that they adhere to tropes and archetypes typical of YA fantasy. In addition, the book may not be appropriate for readers seeking a more complex or mature plot.

Our Verdict:

A World To Lose is a well-written and entertaining young adult fantasy adventure that is certain to captivate readers. The characters are endearing and relatable, and the world-building is vivid and imaginative. While the plot may not be the most complex or sophisticated in the genre, it is still a great choice for anyone who enjoys adventure stories with themes of found family and loyalty. We enthusiastically recommend A World To Lose to YA fantasy and adventure fans.

 #4: Ignatius and the Swords of Nostaw : An Epic Fantasy Adventure

Specs:

• Title: Ignatius and the Swords of Nostaw
• Author: Jeffrey Alexande Martin
• Genre: Epic Fantasy, Adventure
• Format: Paperback and eBook
• Pages: 270
• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
• Release Date: October 25, 2017
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1979027675
• ISBN-13: 978-1979027671

What we like:

• Ignatius and the Swords of Nostaw is an exciting and imaginative epic fantasy adventure that is certain to please genre fans. The world-building is rich and detailed, with a well-developed magic system and a multitude of interesting and unique creatures. Each character has a distinct personality and motivations, and is well-written and memorable. The book's exploration of such themes as power, loyalty, and betrayal added depth and complexity to the narrative.

What we don't like:

• Although the world-building is impressive, some readers may occasionally find it overwhelming or confusing. In addition, some of the plot twists and turns may feel predictable to readers with experience in the genre.

Our Verdict:

Ignatius and the Swords of Nostaw is a well-written and thrilling epic fantasy adventure that is certain to please genre fans. The worldbuilding is imaginative and impressive, and the characters are well-developed and engaging. Although some readers may find the plot twists predictable and the world-building overwhelming, these issues do not diminish the book's overall quality. We enthusiastically recommend Ignatius and the Swords of Nostaw to all fans of epic fantasy adventures.

#5: Girl Island: The gripping YA adventure that readers are saying is impossible to put down

Specs:

• Title: Girl Island
• Author: Holly Hook
• Genre: YA Adventure, Thriller
• Format: Paperback and eBook
• Pages: 272
• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
• Release Date: June 27, 2018
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1721854206
• ISBN-13: 978-1721854209

What we like:

• Girl Island is a thrilling young adult adventure that immediately captivates readers. The plot is fast-paced and action-packed, with numerous suspenseful turns that keep readers on the edge of their seats. We admired Kaley's strength and determination, which make her an excellent role model for young readers. The setting, a mysterious island with dark secrets, contributes to the overall sense of tension and peril.

What we don't like:

• While the plot is captivating and fast-paced, some readers may find the characters to be underdeveloped. In addition, the conclusion of certain plotlines may feel rushed or unsatisfying.

Our Verdict:

Overall, Girl Island is an engrossing young adult novel that will hold readers' attention until the very end. The narrative is thrilling and suspenseful, filled with action and peril. Although the characters may lack depth and the resolution of some plot threads may feel rushed, these flaws do not diminish the book's overall quality. We strongly recommend Girl Island to anyone seeking an exciting and engaging young adult novel.

• Genre: YA adventure books come in various genres, including fantasy, science fiction, historical fiction, and contemporary. Consider your interests and preferences before selecting a genre.

• Themes: Adventure books can focus on different themes, such as survival, self-discovery, and friendship. Think about what themes interest you the most and look for adventure books that explore those themes.

• Author: The author's writing style can make or break a book. Research authors you enjoy or those who have received critical acclaim for their YA adventure books.

• Reviews: Check out online reviews from other readers to get an idea of the book's pacing, character development, and overall appeal. Look for books with high ratings and positive reviews.

• Series vs. standalone: Adventure books can be part of a series or standalone novels. Consider if you prefer standalone books or want to commit to a series.

What makes a book an adventure novel for young adults?

Typically, the protagonist of a young adult adventure novel embarks on a physical or emotional journey. It frequently involves danger, taking risks, and a feeling of excitement.

Can adults also enjoy YA adventure novels?

Absolutely! Not only are YA adventure novels for young adults, but also for anyone who enjoys a good adventure story.

Are all young adult adventure novels suitable for all ages?

Perhaps not necessarily. Some young adult adventure novels contain mature themes and graphic content. Before purchasing, check the recommended age range and content warnings.

What are some of the most popular YA adventure series?

Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling, Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan, and The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins are popular YA adventure series.

Can you recommend a young adult adventure novel with diverse characters?

Yes, The Gilded Ones by Namina Forna is a young adult novel that explores identity, power, and redemption through a diverse cast of characters.

Young adult adventure novels provide an exciting escape from reality by transporting readers to distant lands, perilous quests, and epic battles. By considering the genre, age range, and series preference, you can locate the ideal adventure novel. Whether you're seeking a fantastical world to explore or a thrilling mystery to unravel, our list of the best young adult adventure novels has you covered.