A book makes a great gift for a teenager, whether it's for Christmas, a birthday, or other occasion. While it may not be the obvious choice for some boys, the right book can positively impact a teen's life while providing him with the same amount of thrills and excitement as the most popular video games. Boys tend to read less than girls, according to an article in The Times, and the gap only gets wider as they grow older. Fortunately, there is an ever-growing supply of smart, engaging books to choose from that will appeal to even reluctant boy readers.
Books don't have to be boring. When choosing a book for a teenage boy, look for a fast-paced storyline and relatable heroes or heroines to help ensure it's a hit. Each of the books listed below has been selected for just these qualities.
While a number of these books could appeal to girls as well as boys, you can also consult this list of great giftable books tailored specifically to teenage girls.
Classic Books for Teenage Boys: Stocking Stuffers and More
If you're stumped on what to buy a teenage boy for Christmas or a birthday, consider a classic novel that has a proven track record with generations of boys. The novels below are all powerful, fast-paced reads that will not easily be forgotten. Purchase a paperback edition for a stocking stuffer, or a high-quality hardback that will last for years.
Dune by Frank Herbert: This sprawling science fiction epic won the Hugo Award in 1966. Though not written specifically for a young adult audience, it's likely to appeal to many older teenagers.
The Chrysalids by John Wyndham: This fast-paced classic, set in a dystopian future, revolves around a boy with an unusual mutation who must escape his repressive rural community.
Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury: Two teenage boys encounter a creepy travelling carnival. Part horror and part mystery, this novel explores themes of good and evil.
Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card: This futuristic science-fiction novel stars Ender, who along with other talented children is being trained in the art of war. A great gift idea for teenagers.
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson: A good book for boys with the patience to get past a few slow parts. A coming-of-age story with enough adventure and mystery to keep teenagers interested.
Books for Reluctant Boy Readers: Newer Action-Packed Novels
If a timeless classic isn't the right fit for the teenage boy in your life, consider something more modern. The goods news for parents and discerning young adult readers is that many of the newer books aimed at teenage boys are as gripping as they are literary.
The Amazing Maurice and His Educated Rodents by Terry Pratchett: This is a great gift idea for boys who like humourous storylines. A retelling of the pied piper myth, it features a boy piper and his band of sentient mice and cat.
Sabriel by Garth Nix: Some might assume this book is intended for girls, as it features a female protagonist, but there is much here that boys will like. Sabriel hunts zombies and other members of the undead against a backdrop that is part medieval fantasyland and part militaristic war zone.
The Supernaturalist by Eoin Colfer: This sci-fi novel stars Cosmo, an orphaned boy used as a guinea pig for different products. An action-packed novel set in a vividly detailed future.
The Black Tattoo by Sam Enthoven: A fantasy novel about a boy who is possessed by a demon bent on destroying the world. A bold and compelling read.
The Book of Three by Lloyd Alexander: This book, the first in the Chronicles of Prydain series, tells the story of Taran, a boy who must battle against evil forces. A good choice for fans of the The Hobbit and other similar fantasy novels.
Deciding what to give a teenage boy for Christmas or a birthday isn't always easy. This list of the best gift books for boys will help you please even the most reluctant reader on your list.
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Heather Fawcett - Heather Fawcett is a Vancouver-based writer and editor. She holds an M.A. in English Literature and specializes in teen fiction, having ...
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