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Top 10 Fiction for Christian Young Adults

Updated: Mar 22, 2023

Finding wholesome entertainment that is compatible with our beliefs might be difficult as a Christian young adult. There is, however, a wealth of high-quality fiction accessible that not only entertains but also encourages us on our spiritual journey. This post will discuss the top ten fiction books for Christian young adults that will encourage and develop your faith.




1 - "The Shack" by William Paul Young


"The Shack" is a novel written by William Paul Young that portrays the narrative of Mackenzie Phillips, a man who has suffered a severe loss and is fighting to find meaning and purpose in his life. The story follows Mack as he encounters the three divine persons of the Trinity- Father, Son and Holy Spirit; and learns to find healing and forgiveness. This book serves as a poignant reminder that God's love and grace are available to all of us, even in our darkest hours.


2 - "Redeeming Love" by Francine Rivers


"Redeeming Love" is a compelling novel that modernizes the biblical story of Hosea and Gomer. Angel, a young lady who has survived abuse and loss, and Michael Hosea, a guy who loves her unreservedly, are the protagonists of the novel. The book is a lovely reminder of God's unending love for us and his tireless pursuit of us.


3 - "The Screwtape Letters" by C.S. Lewis


"The Screwtape Letters" is a one-of-a-kind novel written from the perspective of a senior demon, Screwtape, who is sending letters to his nephew, Wormwood, on how to deceive humans. The book serves as a striking reminder of the spiritual war we confront on a daily basis, as well as helpful insights into how we can withstand the devil's plans.


4 - "The Giver" by Lois Lowry


The dystopian novel "The Giver" is set in a future where emotions and memories are suppressed. The plot revolves around Jonas, a young kid who is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory. The novel serves as a stark reminder of the value of free will and the hazards of conformity.


5 - "The Chronicles of Narnia" by C.S. Lewis


"The Chronicles of Narnia," by C.S. Lewis, is a must-read for any Christian young adult. The seven volumes in the series depict the adventures of four siblings who discover Narnia, a mythical kingdom full of talking animals, witches, and a giant lion named Aslan. These books not only offer a fascinating fantasy adventure, but they also include several biblical themes and allegories.


6 - "Unwind" Series by Neal Shusterman


The "Unwind" is a compelling series takes place in a dystopian society where undesired and troublesome teenagers are "unwound," which means their organs and body parts are harvested for transplant purposes (they basically die). The stories follow three teenagers who are about to be unwound and their quest for survival. During the fast-paced and highly tensed series, the protagonists wrestle with issues such as morality, friendship, identity and sanctity of human life. These themes are consistent with many Christian values, such as the sanctity of life, the importance of standing up for what is right, and loving the unlovable. Having said that, I'd want to warn my fellow Christian readers that the "Unwind" series has some content that may be inappropriate for some readers. If you're not comfortable with serious themes or violence, this series might not be for you.


7 - "Lord of the Rings" by J. R. R. Tolkien


The books in the "Lord of the Rings" series are full of adventure, romance, and epic battles, but my favorite aspect of them is their spiritual depth. The books contain themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the war between good and evil, all of which resonate powerfully with the Christian faith. If you're a young adult searching for a rich, fascinating read, "Lord of the Rings" is a must-read.


8 - "The Pilgrim's Progress" by John Bunyan


The story follows Christian, a man who goes from the City of Destruction to the Celestial City, meeting different challenges and trials along the route. Themes of sin, salvation, and grace are intertwined throughout the story, creating a poignant reflection on the Christian life. If you're seeking for a timeless masterpiece that will both inspire and challenge you, "The Pilgrim's Journey" is a must-read.


9 - "The Chosen" by Chaim Potok


This novel takes place in 1940s Brooklyn, New York, and chronicles the lives of two teenage lads from different religious backgrounds. One is an Orthodox Jew, and the other is a Christian with a desire to become a pastor. Despite their differences, the guys become friends and learn from one another. This book delves into subjects such as faith, relationships, and discovering one's life's purpose.


10 - "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak


"The Book Thief" is a novel that depicts the narrative of Liesel, a little girl living in Nazi Germany during World War Two. The novel delves with issues such as love, sorrow, and the power of words, as well as the value of compassion and sacrifice. While the novel is not expressly Christian, it has elements of faith and grapples with God and suffering themes. Ultimately, "The Book Thief" is a strong and compelling narrative that reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit and the significance of standing up for what is good, even when evil is present.


Finally, as a Christian young adult, reading fiction books can be a fantastic opportunity to grow spiritually and get fresh insights about life and faith. The books on this list are just a handful of the many excellent choices available. Add them to your reading list and allow them to inspire and encourage you on your spiritual path.




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