21 Coming of Age Books That’ll Make You Laugh, Cry, and Remember Growing Up

I’d be lying if I said I read age-appropriate books while growing up. 

As a matter of fact, the very first full-length, proper adult novel I read was Tell Me Your Dreams. And because of the nightmares I had after reading that book, I quickly realized that mysteries – or at least full-blown thrillers that cause me stress – weren’t for me. 

So, I started reading what I considered the safest and most amazing genre at the time: romance. I used to read a lot of Harlequin books back in those days.

But now that I look back, I feel like I should have been reading more age-appropriate books – stories that would have been better suited to that particular stage of my life. 

And whenever I get reflective about this (which is often), I always feel like I should have read more coming-of-age books. 

Not that they would have magically solved all my teenage confusion or decision-making struggles, but I do think they would have helped me feel a little less lost during those years.

That’s not to say it’s too late though. Because honestly? Coming-of-age books are pretty much all I’ve been reading lately.

 It sometimes feels like I’m constantly oscillating between two extreme emotions, and coming-of-age stories have been a godsend in helping me process all of that.

In this post, I’ve compiled my personal list of favorite coming-of-age books that I feel everyone should read. 

These are the kinds of books that, whenever I read them and see someone else experiencing growing pains or struggling to figure themselves out, I feel a little more seen and a little less alone.

If you’re craving that same feeling, you should absolutely check out these books too.

Is This OK? by Harriet Gibsone

If you’ve ever obsessed over your internet searches, Is This OK? will feel like a friend telling you you’re not alone. 

I found Harriet’s story both funny and heartbreaking. This honest coming-of-age memoir about internet addiction shows how online life can mess with our heads. 

She dives into her past, from googling exes to feeling trapped in fake celebrity crushes, while secretly struggling with early menopause. 

I felt her pain but also laughed at her wild stories. It’s a refreshing pick if you’re after a best coming-of-age memoir that feels super real. 

I love how Harriet talks about her search for connection in a world that feels so connected but isn’t. 

If you’re looking for brutally honest coming-of-age books about womanhood in the digital age, this one will stick with you.

The Young Team by Graeme Armstrong

Honestly, The Young Team hit me hard. 

It’s one of those gritty yet brilliant coming-of-age novels set in Scotland that leaves you thinking long after you finish. 

You follow Azzy as he joins a gang, gets trapped in violence, and then desperately tries to change his future. 

I loved how raw it felt – like being inside someone’s real memories. Aside from the gang life, it’s also about growing up in a place where hope feels rare. 

If you want modern coming-of-age books that don’t sugarcoat life, this is a powerful choice. 

I loved how Armstrong blends Scottish street slang and rave culture without losing the heart of Azzy’s story. 

I think every reader who enjoys raw coming-of-age stories about survival should give this book a chance.

Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell

Eleanor and Park is a love story, but more than that, it’s a sweet and awkward coming-of-age romance that feels so real.

I loved how two misfits – Eleanor with her bright red hair and Park with his quiet kindness – slowly fall for each other. 

It’s one of those best coming-of-age romance books that reminds you how messy and beautiful first love can be. 

The way they bond over music made me smile, and honestly, I think every reader deserves to experience their tender story. 

I like that it’s simple, but not in a boring way – it’s the perfect young adult coming-of-age novel for readers who love romance with a side of real-life struggles. 

If you’re craving a heartwarming yet bittersweet love story, you’ll adore this one.

Ask Me Again by Clare Sestanovich

Reading Ask Me Again felt like quietly watching someone’s life unfold.

It’s a thoughtful and gentle coming-of-age novel about growing up and trying to figure out who you are. 

Eva’s story really pulled me in – she’s cautious and quiet, so I related to her a lot. 

Her friendship with bold, mysterious Jamie adds this beautiful tension throughout the book. 

If you’re searching for literary coming-of-age novels about self-discovery, I think you’ll love this one as much as I did. 

Watching Eva question herself, fall in and out of love, and chase purpose felt so real to me. 

This book isn’t dramatic; it’s soft and reflective, so it’s perfect if you like slow-burn character-driven stories. 

For readers who enjoy best coming-of-age stories about friendship, identity, and finding your voice, this one is a hidden gem.

I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith

I’ve always loved stories set in castles, so I Capture the Castle felt magical to me. 

This one is about Cassandra, who writes about her life in her diary as she grows up. 

Her family is quirky and poor, but her voice is so funny and honest that you’ll feel like she’s your friend. 

I think it’s one of the most charming historical coming-of-age novels you can read. I loved seeing Cassandra falling in love for the first time – it’s sweet and sad at the same time.

If you’re looking for cozy yet emotional classic coming-of-age books, this one will stay with you. 

I really enjoyed how simple moments felt special in her diary. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys gentle, timeless stories.

Tell the Wolves I’m Home by Carol Rifka Brunt

Tell the Wolves I’m Home tells the story of June, a shy teen who loses her uncle Finn, her closest friend. 

I felt June’s sadness deeply, but what I loved most was how her grief leads her to a surprising new friendship. 

This is one of the best tender coming-of-age books about loss and healing. I think every reader who has ever lost someone will connect to June’s journey. 

It’s not a loud book – it’s quiet and thoughtful, and ultimately focuses on how we find pieces of ourselves after heartbreak. 

I loved the way it showed the power of connection, even between strangers. 

If you’re after an emotional, unforgettable coming-of-age novel about love and family, I highly recommend this beautiful story. It’ll stay in your heart.

Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit by Jeanette Winterson

I really admire how brave this book is. 

Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit tells Jeanette’s story – she’s raised in a strict religious home, expected to be a missionary, but everything changes when she falls for another girl. 

It’s honest and raw, but also witty in ways I didn’t expect. 

If you’re looking for LGBTQ+ coming-of-age books that tackle religion, family, and finding your true self, this is a classic.

I loved how Jeanette’s voice felt both strong and vulnerable. 

And, I especially appreciated her quiet courage to choose herself, even when it hurt. 

This book makes you think about how hard it can be to break free from people who love you but don’t accept you. 

It’s perfect if you want inspiring queer coming-of-age stories that feel real and powerful.

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens

I know classics can feel intimidating, but trust me, Great Expectations is worth it. 

I was surprised by how easy it was to care about Pip, the boy who dreams of being something better. 

This Victorian coming-of-age novel follows Pip from being a poor kid to trying to become a gentleman, but what I enjoyed most was his search for love and belonging. 

I think it’s one of the most fascinating classic coming-of-age stories because Pip’s journey feels timeless. 

He makes mistakes, he gets hurt, but he keeps growing. From Miss Havisham’s crumbling house to his complicated friendship with Estella, the story feels full of mystery and hope. 

If you’re curious about classic coming-of-age books that are still relatable today, I’d say give Pip a chance. He’ll win you over like he did me.

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings is a memoir I think every reader should experience at least once in a lifetime. 

Maya Angelou’s story is painful yet so beautiful – it shows how words can heal even the deepest hurts. 

We get to see Maya’s loneliness and her journey towards loving herself despite all the cruelty she faced. 

It’s one of the most powerful coming-of-age memoirs about overcoming trauma and finding your voice. 

I loved how Maya falls in love with books, especially Shakespeare, just like I did growing up. Her strength shines through every page. 

If you’re looking for poetic, inspiring coming-of-age books by Black authors, this is a must-read. 

Maya’s life taught me that no matter how hard life feels, hope and kindness can help us rise. This book truly changes you.

The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros

The House on Mango Street is like a soft, dreamy journey told in small stories. 

Esperanza’s voice felt like a friend whispering her secrets. 

She grows up in Chicago, dreaming of a better life, and every little moment – happy or sad – feels like a step in her coming-of-age. 

I loved how Sandra Cisneros captured Esperanza’s hopes without making things too heavy. 

It’s one of the best lyrical coming-of-age books about identity and belonging. 

The way Esperanza imagines her future really spoke to me. 

If you’re looking for short, powerful coming-of-age novels about Latina girls finding themselves, this is perfect. 

Each short chapter feels like a little poem about life. It’s easy to read, but it stays with you for a long time. 

If you end up reading any of these coming-of-age books, please let me know in the comments section below! 

And if you have a favorite coming-of-age book – one you’ve read, loved, or recommended to others because you feel it’s the best of the best – I’d love to hear about it too.