Summer’s here and it’s time for the kids to read for pleasure. Science fiction fans have plenty of choices with releases coming fast and furious! Here are six sci-fi book picks for tweens and teens who long for out-of-this-world adventure.

Unearthed by Amie Kaufman and Meagan Spooner

Traps and trials, cliffhangers, and a race against time make for a fast-paced thriller. Teens Jules and Amelia find themselves on an alien planet for very different reasons and motivations. Although they each have secrets to keep, they must form an alliance to stay safe. As they work together to solve the mysteries of an ancient culture, they realize they could save the earth… if they’re not too late. Best for ages 14+.


Children of Blood and Bone: Legacy of Orisha by Tomi Adeyemi

The movie rights to this book were purchased before it was even published! The buzz is strong on this story of a young girl who takes on a monarchy to bring back magic to her mythical world. Class discrimination, abuse by those in powerful positions and the loss of hope are explored in this richly realized world with its unique language, creatures and clan structure. Best for ages 13+.

Tempests and Slaughter by Tamora Pierce

An accomplished young magician and healer, 10-year-old Arram Draper, is gifted. But he’s also a trouble magnet. Along with his friends at the Imperial University of Carthak, he battles magical challenges, embarks on puberty and works to protect his kingdom from evil. Best for ages 12+.

The Diminished by Kaitlyn Sage Patterson

Two teens, one a single born boy, and the other a girl who lost her twin, face differing fates in an empire where most are twins. With nothing in common but their state of being “alone,” they are brought together by fate and a secret that will change the course of their lives and those around them. Best for ages 12+.


Honor Among Thieves by Rachel Caine and Ann Aguirre

Who can you trust? This is a central question in the first book of this sci-fi series that sees Zara, a thief, thrust into an elite program of space fliers. Turning challenges into capabilities, Zara encounters alien life and finds out more about herself than she could have on Earth. Best for ages 13+.


Batman: Nightwalker by Marie Lu

The author of the Legend and Young Elites series’ tackles a twist-filled story of Batman as a teen. Bruce Wayne is about to inherit his family’s fortune and business, but he’s the target of The Nightwalkers, criminals who are terrorizing Gotham City. Get to know the Dark Knight in this action-packed tale that shows the reader his personality as he battles for the safety of his city and meets a mysterious girl along the way. Best for ages 12+.

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