6 Captivating Books Every Teenage Girl Needs To Read
1. The Things We Cannot Say
If you like historical fiction, then you will love The Things We Cannot Say. A novel written by Kelly Rimmer, this book is the first in a series of two books that are inspired by real experiences during World War 2. Kelly Rimmer masterfully weaves together the story of two women who fight to preserve their families and freedoms amid great opposition.
From a young age, Alina Dziak knew that she would marry her childhood best friend, Tomasz Slaski. At the age of fifteen, shortly after her engagement to Tomasz, Alina’s life is completely altered by the German invasion of Poland. As she lives through the terrors of the early years of World War 2, Alina clings to the dream that she and Tomasz will one day be united in marriage. When Tomasz disappears, Alina is devastated, but she continues to fight to preserve her family and freedom. This is one of two captivating books in a heartwarming series that will enrapture teenage girls.
2. To Kill A Mockingbird
Written by Alabama resident Harper Lee, To Kill A Mockingbird contains deep messages of heroism and warnings against compromised consciences. Also an Academy Award-winning film, this book is sure to capture the attention of teenage audiences. We definitely recommend reading the book before watching the movie!
In the early 1930s, Maycomb, Alabama was a rural town divided over racial prejudice. Atticus Finch, a single father and lawyer, strives to teach his children to build strong characters amid persecution. When Atticus is asked to defend a black man in the community who is accused of rape, he and his family encounter immense opposition. During the trial, Atticus dutifully defends the man’s character and pleads with the jury to put racial prejudice aside. Unbeknownst to Atticus, his children are watching him in the crowd, and both his daughter and his son are inspired to stand up for what is right. The town undergoes a series of events that ultimately show that repaying evil for evil is not a sufficient resolution.
This is a coming-of-age story that grabs attention in a different way than other captivating books. Narrated from the perspective of Atticus’ daughter, Scout, the story explores the impact of role models on a girl’s life. You may want to grab a kleenex box for this one because it is sure to stir up all the emotions!
3. Little Women
A classic novel, Little Women accurately paints a picture of life with multiple sisters. Penned by Louis May Alcott in 1868, the story is loosely based on the author’s life with her three sisters. Teenage girls will cherish this novel above other captivating books because of the themes of sisterhood, maturity, romance, and adventure. There have been several adaptations of this book for the big screen, but we recommend watching the 1994 version for an accurate representation of the original story.
Set in post-Civil War America, Little Women follows the story of the March family. With their father off serving in the war, the four girls and their mother have learned how to manage without the head of the household. In every letter their father sends home, he tells them how proud he is of his “little women”. When disaster strikes, the family is forced to make sacrifices that they never would have anticipated. Surrounded by dear friends who become family, the March family triumphs over their struggles and establishes bonds that last forever. This heartwarming novel is guaranteed to capture the attention of teenage girls in every walk of life.
4. Anne Of Green Gables
Another classic novel, Anne Of Green Gables was written by Lucy Maud Montgomery. This book is the first in a series following the life of orphan Anne Shirley. The movie adaptation is phenomenal, heartwarming, and captivating. We definitely recommend reading the book before watching the original movie!Â
Orphaned at a young age, Anne Shirley has spent her life bouncing from house to house and orphanage to orphanage. When she is taken in by Martha and Matthew Cuthbert, she is devastated to find that the sibling pair wanted a boy, not a feisty redheaded girl. Through her irresistible character, Anne wins the affection of Martha and Matthew and embarks on a new adventure. She meets friends, makes trouble, and repents multiple times, but no matter how often she messes up you cannot resist falling in love with her character. This classic tale encourages girls to dream big, be outgoing, and never forget the family that raised them. You will find yourself laughing and crying with Anne as she encounters the ups and downs of growing up.
5. The Diary Of A Young Girl
The Diary of a Young Girl is the diary of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who lived during the Holocaust. The journal was discovered in the attic where she spent the last few years of her life in hiding. It gives readers a personal account of one girl’s unwavering faith amidst the horrors of war.
In 1942, Anne Frank and her family went into hiding. As the Nazis increased their hold over Holland, their presence provided a dangerous threat to Jewish families. For the next two years, the Frank family and another family hid in the “Secret Annexe” of an old office building. They endured boredom, hunger, impatience, and the daily threat of being found out. Anne’s diary provided a first-hand account of the experiences they shared while crammed in that tiny secret space. Tragically, their hiding place was discovered and her bright light was snuffed out.
Even though the story does not have a happy ending, the themes of courage, faith, and perseverance are inspirational for all readers. Teenage girls who enjoy reading true stories will find this to be one of the most captivating books.
6. The Day The World Came To Town
Based on a true story, The Day The World Came To Town is one of many captivating books that tell the story of 9/11. Written by Jim Defede, this book features numerous interviews with people who lived through this tragic day. Filled to the brim with themes of courage and perseverance, The Day The World Came To Town is an inspirational story that will restore your faith in humanity.
Set in the small town of Gander, Newfoundland, this story tells about 38 jetliners who were forced to land in Canada when American airspace was closed. The pilots of the planes attempted to keep their passengers calm as their destinations rapidly changed. When the planes landed in Gander, they were met by warm and welcoming citizens who allowed passengers to shower in their homes, sleep in their beds, and dine in their schools and churches. During their stay, the passengers developed lasting bonds with the citizens of Gander that they expected to last for a lifetime. This book will warm the hearts of teenage audiences and encourage them to look for ways to serve others.
