#the ya contemporary books have been knocking it out of the park with mental health and coming of age

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YA, like any other market, is dynamic. So, here are some gems that people have missed out on because people would rather complain about books that were published over a decade ago than read a new one.

The Undead Truth of Us by Britney S. Lewis: After her mother's death, Zharie is convinced that zombies are everywhere. Navigating grief and her mother's secrets, this heart-wrenching debut is about the monster inside all of us.

The Ghosts of Rose Hill by RM Romero: Sent to live with her aunt in Prague for the summer, Ilana tends to a hidden graveyard surrounded by roses. While there, she experiences ghosts and wonders and magic.

Bad Witch Burning by Jessica Lewis: Known for communicating with the dead, Katrell is forced at a crossroad after her mom kicks her out. Suddenly, the dead are louder and her magic has gained unexpected consequences.

From Dust, a Flame by Rebecca Podos: Hannah wakes up with a curse brought on by her family's legacy. Tracing her mother's footsteps, she explores the generational trauma and the monsters that her family won't let go.

The Astonishing Color of After by Emily XR Pan: Leigh knows her mother has turned into a bird. She goes to Taiwan to visit her grandparents and to understand why, but the past has way of showing deeper truths.

Elatsoe by Darcie Little Badger: Drawn by her cousin's ghost, Ellie is compelled to solve his murder. But the town is full of secrets that even her faithful ghost dog can't sniff out.

Tess of the Road by Rachel Hartman: Following a series of events at her sister's wedding, Tess runs away, joins an old friend, and goes on the road in search of a mythical serpent that sleeps under the earth.

Monsters Born and Made by Tanvi Berwah: Born in a cruel caste system, Koral takes matters into her own hands by cheating to join a dangerous tournament. Full of monsters on sea and land, survival has never been more important.