Realistic Fiction:
* "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" by Stephen Chbosky: A coming-of-age story told through the letters of a shy, introspective teenager dealing with social anxiety and trauma.
* "Eleanor & Park" by Rainbow Rowell: A heartwarming romance that delves into the struggles of two teenagers facing their own unique challenges, including poverty, family difficulties, and bullying.
* "Speak" by Laurie Halse Anderson: This powerful novel explores the aftermath of a traumatic experience through the eyes of a teenage girl who is struggling to find her voice and cope with the emotional consequences.
* "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie: A funny and heartbreaking story of a Native American teen who leaves his reservation to attend an all-white high school, facing discrimination and navigating the complexities of adolescence.
* "The Fault in Our Stars" by John Green: This tear-jerking novel explores the realities of cancer and how it affects a young couple and their loved ones. While it focuses on cancer, it also addresses themes of grief, loss, and navigating life with a terminal diagnosis.
* "A Little Life" by Hanya Yanagihara: While not specifically a teen book, this novel deals with the complexities of trauma, depression, and mental health throughout its characters' lives, starting from childhood and moving into adulthood.
* "The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas: This powerful book deals with the aftermath of a police shooting and how it affects a teenager in a community grappling with racial injustice and systemic oppression. While not explicitly about depression, it explores themes of grief, anger, and the emotional impact of trauma.
YA Fantasy/Sci-Fi:
* "The Raven Cycle" by Maggie Stiefvater: While this series follows four boys on a quest to find a Welsh king, it also explores themes of grief, loss, and the internal struggles of each character.
* "The Cruel Prince" by Holly Black: This dark fantasy novel deals with a young woman who finds herself trapped in a dangerous world of faerie politics and power, facing her own inner demons and the consequences of her choices.
* "The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig: While this book explores themes of suicide and depression, it is also a hopeful story about finding meaning in life and making choices that lead to happiness.
Important Note: It's important to remember that books are just one way to explore these themes. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or other mental health issues, please reach out for help. Here are some resources:
* The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988
* The Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
* The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386
Please know that you are not alone and help is available.