The Books That Almost Made The “Best of the Century: YA” Cut

Last week, we revealed the “Best of the Century So Far” picks for young adult literature. It was a lengthy process to decide which 45 books from the last 25 years to include and which ones–despite how good they were, how influential they were, how important the author is, and an array of other criteria–wouldn’t make the final list. The process took a lot of time and thought, and because there are so many great YA books that deserve the honor of being on such a list, it would be silly not to at least highlight a few that we also talked about.

Here’s a little behind-the-scenes of how deciding the best and most influential young adult books of the century worked. Every Book Riot editor nominated their picks, and every contributor to Book Riot nominated theirs, too. Titles which had several nominations went to the top of the list for first consideration. Titles which were nominates once were considered after those with multiple nominations. We considered the range of titles, the stories and perspectives being presented, and ensured that the list included not only fiction, but also nonfiction and comics. Once we had a solid list, we reviewed it several more times. What was missing? What could be cut in favor of something more representative of a particular author or style or genre or category within YA? Are there multiple titles by the same author and if so, can we negotiate which of the titles is THE one to include?

It was no easy process, but it certainly was an enjoyable exercise. I know that the final list is one that feels good, even if it does not and cannot cover everything. Absolutely no list can. That’s why there are so many great book lists published every single day not only at Book Riot but at numerous book outlets and on bookish social media. Not every book on every book list is for every reader, but every book on every book list is for some reader.

So here’s a look at some of the titles that we discussed but that didn’t make that final cut. These books are also deeply influential tomes in the history of young adult literature so far this century. Pop them on your TBR to continue in your quest to read great books and build a meaningful reading life. These 10 represent a fraction of the titles left on the cutting room floor–so many worthy candidates could be here, too.

Allegedly by Tiffany D. Jackson Is she or isn’t she a “Bad Seed?” When she was 9 years old, Mary killed a baby. Allegedly. Now, six years later, she’s beginning to remember pieces of that night and what the truth may be. Why now? For one thing, it’s the fact she’s pregnant and wants to keep her baby, and being in custody of the state, even in a group home, means she might not be able to choose the future for her child.  This is a fast paced psychological thriller that doesn’t shy away from exploring race, justice (criminal and social), mental health, and gender. A powerful, compelling, twisty read with an excellent voice. For a debut novel, the skillful crafting, plotting, and character development are beyond outstanding.  Jackson is a YA staple, and any of her titles could’ve made this list. Monday’s Not Coming is on our Best of the Century So Far: Mysteries/Thrillers edition.

The Battle of Jericho by Sharon Draper The first in a trilogy, The Battle of Jericho follows 16-year-old Jericho who is invited to take part in the Warriors of Distinction. It’s the school’s most exclusive club, and those who pledge are promised girls and parties–initiates also keep stellar grades. For Jericho, it’s especially appealing when just after the invitations are handed out, he’s getting attention from Arielle. But when pledging begins, Jericho finds himself being asked to do things he’s not comfortable doing. He’s also watching as the only female pledge endures a particularly rough series of rituals. Jericho now struggles between continuing and solidifying his place among the Elite in his school or speaking up and out about what’s happening and how he’s feeling. Draper has been writing YA for a long time, and this series is an easy recommendation for so many readers. We will likely see Draper show up on another list, though! All Access Members can read about eight additional titles below.

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