For this list I put out a call for recommendations for Young Adult titles that have some kind of lovey-romance plot or theme. Thanks so much to everyone who answered! I’m embarrassed to admit that I haven’t read any of these; they’re going on The List.

Here are some of my wonderful students (and one colleague) in their own words:

The Future of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler

“Okay it’s not THAT good of a book but this was the only romance book that I read and liked. I guess I liked it because whenever things were supposed to go right, the next thing you know they go wrong and they get into a messy situation.”

— Esperanza

There You’ll Find Me by Jenny B. Jones

“It shows the hardships of a young girl trying to grieve the loss of her older brother while continuing to try and move on wither her life, along with trying to deal with her feelings for a guy.”

— Madison

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins & Since You’ve Been Gone by Morgan Matson

“I literally love romance books, and I don’t have much time to write this but these books are so freaking good!!!!!!!

— Sydney

The Royal We by Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan

“If you follow William & Kate and Harry & Meghan, you’ll love this story of royal romance!”

— Abbie

Juniper Leaves by Jaz Joyner

“It’s pretty much the opposite of everything Lakeville [the suburb where I teach]. Two teen African-American girls discover love and magical powers over a summer in North Carolina. Simply written and relatable. Can’t say more without ruining story. #blackgirlmagic

— Andy (a fellow teacher/YA lit enthusiast. He “LOL”ed me when I asked if I had his parents’ permission to post his comments on my blog)

 

(these last recommendations are from students who asked that I not use their names)

The Selection Series by Kiera Cass

“I love this story because its so cute but it’s also really different from most traditional love stories!”

You are Here by Jennifer E. Smith

“It doesn’t fully start out as a love story, it focuses on the friendship relationship and families of two neighbors, but eventually develops into a heartwarming story full of normal arguments and the entirety of the country.”

Hello, Goodbye, and Everything In Between by Jennifer E. Smith

“I don’t want to spoil it, but it isn’t your typical love story!”

Between the Lines by Jodi Picoult and Samantha Van Leer

“It’s a mix between a fairytale story and a love story that takes place in 3 different perspectives.”