8 Young Adult Books to Read This Independence Day
It’s a bittersweet Independence Day here in the U.S. While we usually like to celebrate the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the start of forming the United States of America, this year a lot of freedoms are under attack. Instead of firing up the grill to cook some burgers and watching fireworks later in the evening, some people are choosing to ignore the holiday or celebrate it in different ways. One option: read about some good old-fashioned rebellion where a teen decides enough is enough. Oh Katniss, where are you now?
Whether you're looking for pulse-pounding action, razor-sharp political commentary, or just a protagonist brave enough to challenge the status quo, we've rounded up our favorite YA books where the government doesn’t stand a chance.
1. The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins
The Hunger Games, Catching Fire, Mockingjay (the original trilogy)
You knew this one would be here. Katniss Everdeen didn’t just volunteer as tribute — she became the symbol of a revolution. What starts as survival turns into an uprising that topples the Capitol. Brutal, brilliant, and iconic. A dystopian staple that you’re seriously missing out on if you haven’t read it yet.
2. The Shatter Me Series by Tehereh Mafi
Shatter Me, Unravel Me, Ignite Me, Restore Me, Defy Me, Imagine Me
Juliette’s touch is lethal. Locked away by a repressive regime, she becomes a pawn — until she chooses to fight back. With her powers growing and a revolution rising, this series turns from internal angst to full-blown rebellion. With poetic prose, sizzling romance, and a goverment begging to be overthrown, this #booktok popular series is not to be missed!
3. The Legend Series by Marie Lu
Legend, Prodigy, Champion, Rebel
June and Day come from opposite sides of a fractured society — one a military prodigy, the other a most-wanted criminal. Together, they uncover the dark truths behind their government and ignite a movement that challenges everything. This series is fast-paced, emotionally charged, and full of twisty betrayals.
4. The Red Queen Series by Victoria Aveyard
Red Queen, Glass Sword, King’s Cage, War Storm
In a world divided by blood — Silver (elite) and Red (common) — Mare Barrow discovers a shocking power she shouldn’t have. Thrust into palace politics, she becomes the face of a revolution… and learns just how dangerous rebellion can be. When royal intrigue meets revolution, expect betrayal big battles, and a heroine who is done playing nice.
5. The Divergent Series by Veronica Roth
Divergent, Insurgent, Allegiant
In a society split into five factions based on virtues, being Divergent means you don’t fit into just one box — and that makes you dangerous. Tris Prior uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to destroy the balance of power, and she becomes the spark that sets the system ablaze. One of the original YA dystopian series, Divergent explores identity, conformity, and what happens when one girl dares to break the mold.
6. The Young Elites Series by Marie Lu
The Young Elites, The Rose Society, The Midnight Star
Adelina Amouteru survives a deadly illness that gives her strange powers — and society brands her as dangerous. Recruited by a group of vigilantes, she begins a dark, vengeful journey to dismantle the very world that rejected her. If you enjoy antihero stories and twisted politics, you’ll enjoy this series’ descent into power and rebellion.
7. An Ember in the Ashes Series by Sabaa Tahir
An Ember in the Ashes, A Torch Against the Night, A Reaper at the Gates, A Sky Beyond the Storm
Inspired by ancient Rome, this fantasy-dystopia hybrid follows Laia, a slave with a secret mission, and Elias, a soldier who questions everything. As their paths collide, rebellion brews under a brutal empire. With powerful worldbuilding and impossible choices, these protagonists risk it all.
8. Internment by Samira Ahmed
Set in a near-future America where Muslim Americans are forced into internment camps, Layla Amin refuses to be silent. Her defiance turns into resistance — and sparks a movement from within. This raw, real, and timely book is a call to action.
Young adult books have always given space for young people to challenge authority, demand justice and envision better worlds. These books don’t just entertain—they empower. They remind us that change, liberty and justice for all, starts with a spark. And often, it starts with someone who is an ordinary person.
