Recommended Reads for Year 9

This carefully curated collection brings together the best books for Year 9 readers, combining thought-provoking storytelling with age-appropriate themes. From powerful novels in verse and gripping fiction to timeless classics and notable non-fiction, each book has been hand-picked for its relevance, diversity, and impact.

With themes of identity, belonging, and social issues, this range offers a rich mix of diverse and inclusive perspectives. Whether it's contemporary drama, historical fiction, fantasy, or thrilling mysteries, these books are must-reads for every 13-14-year-old — perfect for both school reading lists as well as reading for pleasure. 

Themes included: Gang Culture, Injustice, Loss, Trauma, Redemption, Poverty, Homelessness, Self-Worth, Mental Health, Anorexia, Immigration, Refugees, Domestic Abuse, Gothic Horror, Freedom, Anxiety, Depression, Neurodiversity, War, Resilience, Oppression, Love, Ethnic Diversity, Belonging, Grief, Healing, Equality.