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Contemporary Fiction

Here in our Contemporary Fiction section at Thryft, discover compelling narratives from groundbreaking authors that challenge, entertain, and inspire us. From thought-provoking tales to emotional sagas, find your next page-turner here!

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I Was Here
Gayle Forman | Viking

I Was Here

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.74

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're in the mood for a story that tackles the complex emotions of loss with a tinge of mystery, "I Was Here" by Gayle Forman is a compelling choice. You might appreciate how the protagonist's journey through her friend's unexpected departure weaves raw emotions with a quest for understanding, making it not just a tale of mourning but also of finding oneself.
A Photogenic Life - Thryft
Low Kay Hwa | Goody Books Pte Ltd

A Photogenic Life

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

Goodreads rating: 3.55

$12.90 $3.90 70% off

A Photogenic Life is a beautifully written memoir, detailing the experiences and emotions of a photographer's life. Low Kay Hwa's vivid descriptions and stunning imagery will transport you to another world, giving you a new perspective on life and the beauty around you. This book is perfect for anyone who appreciates the art of photography and wants to see the world through a photographer's lens.
Brother/Sister - Thryft
Sean Olin | Razorbill

Brother/Sister

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 3.22

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

82% off est. retail
Brother/Sister could be a good read for those who enjoy psychological thrillers that focus on the complicated dynamics of sibling relationships. The unique and distinctive feature of this book lies in its exploration of the complex loyalty and fear that can exist between siblings, even in the face of dark and dangerous circumstances. Readers may appreciate the book's well-drawn characters and tense plot, which keeps them guessing until the very end.
We Are Okay - Thryft
Nina LaCour | Dutton Books For Young Readers

We Are Okay

$13.90

Goodreads rating: 3.93

$13.90

We Are Okay is a beautifully written and emotional portrayal of grief and coming to terms with loss. The book is perfect for those who enjoy character-driven stories that focus on coming of age and exploring complex emotions. Readers will be drawn in by LaCour's impeccable writing and ability to capture her character's struggles with such empathy and honesty. Overall, We Are Okay is a heart-wrenching yet hopeful read that will leave a lasting impact on its readers.
When We Collided - Thryft
Emery Lord | Bloomsbury Children's

When We Collided

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

Goodreads rating: 3.82

$7.90 $4.90 38% off

We are seventeen and shattered and still dancing. We have messy, throbbing hearts, and we are stronger than anyone could ever know…Jonah never thought a girl like Vivi would come along.Vivi didn’t know Jonah would light up her world.Neither of them expected a summer like this…a summer that would rewrite their futures.In an unflinching story about new love, old wounds, and forces beyond our control, two teens find that when you collide with the right person at just the right time, it will change you forever.
The Last Words We Said
Leah Scheier | Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers

The Last Words We Said

$11.90

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$11.90

If the complexities of teenage bonds and the heartache of loss resonate with you, "The Last Words We Said" is a moving choice. It deftly handles the gravity of disappearance through the dynamics of friendship and secrets. As the narrative weaves between past and present, you're pulled into a compelling search for truth that's as much about healing as it is about mystery.
Paperweight
Meg Haston | Harperteen

Paperweight

$12.90 $4.90 62% off

Goodreads rating: 3.9

$12.90 $4.90 62% off

78% off est. retail
If you're drawn to stories that dive deep into the human psyche and the struggles of mental health, "Paperweight" could be your next powerful read. Meg Haston paints a raw and authentic portrait of Stevie as she confronts the ghosts of her past amidst the stark reality of an eating disorder treatment center. This book doesn't shy away from the tough parts of healing, making it a thought-provoking journey through pain, resilience, and the quest for forgiveness.
One Way or Another
Kara McDowell | Scholastic Press

One Way or Another

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.79

$11.90 $7.90 34% off

"One Way or Another" by Kara McDowell might resonate with you if you've ever felt the weight of indecision on your shoulders. Paige's journey through her anxiety and the process of making life-changing decisions could be a comforting mirror to your own experiences. It's an honest portrayal that doesn’t shy away from the mental health struggles faced by many. This book could be a friend during times of uncertainty.
Optimists Die First
Susin Nielsen | Random House Children's Books

Optimists Die First

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.73

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you've ever felt that life's incessant hurdles are a bit absurd, "Optimists Die First" might just resonate with you. It's a story that combines the aches of loss with the healing power of connection and creativity. As Petula's journey unfolds, the mix of honesty, humor, and heartbreak makes this book a comforting companion for anyone facing their own fears. Susin Nielsen's talent for crafting endearing misfits will have you rooting for these characters while simultaneously recognizing a piece of yourself in them.
Lovely, Dark and Deep
Amy McNamara | Simon & Schuster Childrens Books

Lovely, Dark and Deep

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

Goodreads rating: 3.86

$10.90 $7.90 28% off

If you're looking for a story that touches upon the nuances of grief and the healing power of nature, "Lovely, Dark and Deep" could resonate with you. It's a poignant tale where the raw beauty of Maine's forests acts almost as a balm to Wren's shattered life. The emotional depth and the transformative relationships she forms offer a moving exploration of loss and recovery that many find deeply affecting.
We Told Six Lies
Victoria Scott | Entangled: Teen

We Told Six Lies

$9.90

Goodreads rating: 3.34

$9.90

If you're hooked on stories that blend romance with a gripping mystery, "We Told Six Lies" delivers. It takes you into the turmoil of intense young love entwined with suspense. As you unravel the enigma of Molly's disappearance piece by piece alongside the protagonist, you'll find the immersive narrative has a way of making the hours disappear just as mysteriously.
More Than We Can Tell
Brigid Kemmerer | Bloomsbury Ya

More Than We Can Tell

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

Goodreads rating: 4.26

$6.90 $4.90 29% off

78% off est. retail
This is one for those who find comfort in seeing the beautifully messy parts of humanity in literature. This story weaves the lives of Rev and Emma in a way that's both haunting and uplifting. Particularly for readers who've felt the weight of secrets or the sting of online confrontation, this book isn't just a journey—it's assurance that even in our darkest moments, there's a flicker of hope when we reach out to others.
If I Stay
Gayle Forman | Speak

If I Stay

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.91

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

82% off est. retail
Book recommendation: - If I Stay is a deeply emotional and thought-provoking novel that will take you on a rollercoaster of emotions. Through Mia's struggle to piece her life back together after a devastating accident, this book beautifully explores themes of love, grief, and the power of choice. Gayle Forman's writing will touch your heart and leave you pondering the preciousness of life long after you've turned the last page.
The Unlikely Hero of Room 13B
Teresa Toten | Ember

The Unlikely Hero of Room 13B

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.8

$8.90

55% off est. retail
"The Unlikely Hero of Room 13B" could resonate deeply with you if you're looking for a story that's both heartfelt and humorous. Teresa Toten has crafted a novel that deftly navigates the intricacies of mental health through the lens of a relatable teenage protagonist. Adam's quest for normalcy and his sincere, sometimes quirky efforts to overcome his challenges might just inspire you to believe in the possibility of heroes in everyday life.
Stuck in Neutral
Terry Trueman | Hodder

Stuck in Neutral

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

Goodreads rating: 3.83

$8.90 $7.90 11% off

76% off est. retail
"Stuck in Neutral" will feel like a window into a world unseen by many. It's not just about the challenges of cerebral palsy, but a remarkable testament to the human spirit trapped inside a betraying body. It's a quick read, with a mere 128 pages, that packs a powerful emotional punch, leaving you with a profound understanding of Shawn's inner world and his desperate wish to be seen as more than his condition. If you're looking to have your perspective altered and heartstrings tugged, this book may just be the transformative experience you're seeking.
The Shock of the Fall
Nathan Filer | Thr Borough Press

The Shock of the Fall

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.76

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

68% off est. retail
"The Shock of the Fall" is a powerful exploration of a mind in turmoil, penned by someone who's witnessed mental illness firsthand. Nathan Filer's background as a mental health nurse provides an authenticity that resonates deeply with readers. You might find yourself drawn into the protagonist's world, feeling empathy and understanding for a struggle that's often hidden away. For an immersive experience that bridges the gap between fiction and reality, this could be a profound choice.
It's Kind of a Funny Story
Ned Vizzini | Disney Hyperion

It's Kind of a Funny Story

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

Goodreads rating: 4.07

$8.90 $4.90 45% off

80% off est. retail
If you've ever felt the weight of expectations so heavily that you couldn't breathe, this book might resonate with you. It's an honest, yet surprisingly humorous, look at adolescent mental health. Ned Vizzini writes from experience, which gives the story authenticity and hope—proof that there's light even when the tunnel seems endless.
Ultraviolet - Thryft
R.J. Anderson | Orchard

Ultraviolet

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

Goodreads rating: 3.75

$6.90 $3.90 43% off

72% off est. retail
Recommendation: Follow Alison's gripping journey to uncovering the truth amidst her unique perception of the world. With themes of mental health, friendship, and personal growth, Ultraviolet is a must-read for fans of young adult fiction with a twist.
Every Colour of You
Amelia Mandeville | Sphere

Every Colour of You

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$8.90 $3.90 56% off

If you're looking for a tale that intertwines sorrow with hope, "Every Colour of You" might just tug at your heartstrings. Zoe's infectious optimism and the realistic portrayal of Tristan's battles with grief create a poignant contrast, highlighting the complexities of healing. As you navigate their story, the raw emotions and the warmth of human connections could very well leave an impression on you long after the final page.
The Second Life of Ava Rivers
Faith Gardner | Penguin Lcc Us

The Second Life of Ava Rivers

$11.90 $9.71 18% off

Goodreads rating: 3.85

$11.90 $9.71 18% off

60% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the intricacies of familial bonds and the bittersweet tug of unresolved past events, "The Second Life of Ava Rivers" presents a compelling narrative that delicately weaves the complexities of trauma with the hope of reconciliation. Gardner's portrayal of Vera's emotional journey will resonate with anyone who has faced the profound challenge of loving someone through their darkest times. This book is a profound exploration of what it means to come to terms with the past and move forward with love and forgiveness at the heart of one's actions.
The Rest of Us Just Live Here
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Patrick Ness | Harperteen

The Rest of Us Just Live Here

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 3.68

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

If you've ever felt overshadowed by the heroic tales of others, "The Rest of Us Just Live Here" will resonate with you. Patrick Ness expertly marries the mundane struggles of adolescence with the absurdity of a world constantly on the brink of disaster. It's a refreshing take on the YA genre that highlights the importance of the ordinary person’s story, making it a compelling read that stays with you long after you've turned the last page.
Almond
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Sandy Joosun Lee, Sohn Won-Pyung  | Harpervia

Almond

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.14

$8.90

53% off est. retail
Recommendation: 1. A must-read for those seeking profound emotional journeys. 2. Beautifully captures the power of human connection. 3. A touching story of resilience and finding one's voice. 4. Highly recommended for fans of heartwarming coming-of-age narratives.
Girl Online : The First Novel by Zoella - Thryft
Sold out
Zoe Sugg | Keywords Press

Girl Online : The First Novel by Zoella

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

Goodreads rating: 3.66

$9.90 $3.90 61% off

84% off est. retail
"Girl Online" is a relatable book for teenage girls who enjoy reading romance novels. The story follows Penny, an online blogger who keeps her identity hidden, as she navigates through high school drama, family issues, and love. The unique feature of this book is the emphasis on the use of social media and how it impacts relationships in the digital age. If you're looking for a light and easy read with relatable teenage angst, give this book a try.
How to Make Friends with the Dark - Thryft
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Kathleen Glasgow | Ember

How to Make Friends with the Dark

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.09

$5.90 $3.90 34% off

64% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone who has experienced loss and is searching for solace. "How to Make Friends with the Dark" delicately explores themes of grief and resilience through the eyes of Tiger, a young girl navigating the foster care system. The book's unique appeal lies in its ability to navigate the darkness and find unexpected connections, showing readers the transformative power of embracing their own shadows. Through Tiger's journey, you will be reminded that even in the depths of despair, there is always a glimmer of hope waiting to be discovered.
Lonely Castle in the Mirror
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Philip Gabriel, Mizuki Tsujimura  | Doubleday

Lonely Castle in the Mirror

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$8.90

Lonely Castle in the Mirror could be a great read for young adults who are struggling to cope with the challenges of daily life. The novel explores the emotional lives of seven students who are dealing with various stresses and anxieties, providing the reader with a heartfelt and warm narrative. The unique plot of the book, which involves the students finding a key to make a wish in a castle that disappears each afternoon, offers readers an escape from their reality while illustrating the rewards of connecting with others who share similar struggles.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
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Stephen Chbosky | Simon & Schuster Ltd

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

$7.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$7.90

51% off est. retail
The Perks of Being a Wallflower could be a good read for those who enjoy introspective, coming-of-age stories. The novel captures the essence of the teenage experience in a raw, emotional way that is relatable to many readers. With themes of personal growth, self-discovery, and the complexities of relationships, The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a moving and insightful read that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Permanent Record
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Mary H.K. Choi, Ohgigue  | Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers

Permanent Record

$8.90

Goodreads rating: 3.4

$8.90

If you've ever wondered how today's digital age affects love and identity, "Permanent Record" is a novel that encapsulates these themes within a captivating romance. Mary H.K. Choi crafts a world where fame meets the ordinary in the most unexpected of places—a 24-hour deli. She portrays a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the youth today, making the story highly relatable. Pablo and Leanna's journey offers a thoughtful reflection on how we navigate life, love, and personal growth amidst the chaos of social media influence.
Letters to the Lost
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Brigid Kemmerer | Bloomsbury Children's

Letters to the Lost

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$8.90 $5.90 34% off

64% off est. retail
If you've ever felt drawn to the idea that words have the power to reach across the great divide of grief and loneliness, "Letters to the Lost" could stir something profound within you. Its beautiful exploration of coping with loss through the intimate connection of letters makes it a touching story that can resonate especially with anyone who's searching for light in the shadows of sorrow.
All the Bright Places - Thryft
Sold out
Jennifer Niven | Random House Children's Books

All the Bright Places

$8.67

Goodreads rating: 4.13

$8.67

Theodore Finch is fascinated by death, and he constantly thinks of ways he might kill himself. But each time, something good, no matter how small, stops him. Violet Markey lives for the future, counting the days until graduation, when she can escape her Indiana town and her aching grief in the wake of her sister’s recent death. When Finch and Violet meet on the ledge of the bell tower at school, it’s unclear who saves whom. And when they pair up on a project to discover the “natural wonders” of their state, both Finch and Violet make more important discoveries: It’s only with Violet that Finch can be himself—a weird, funny, live-out-loud guy who’s not such a freak after all. And it’s only with Finch that Violet can forget to count away the days and start living them. But as Violet’s world grows, Finch’s begins to shrink. This is an intense, gripping novel perfect for fans of Jay Asher, Rainbow Rowell, John Green, Gayle Forman, and Jenny Downham from a talented new voice in YA, Jennifer Niven.
My Heart and Other Black Holes - Thryft
Sold out
Jasmine Warga | Hodder & Stoughton

My Heart and Other Black Holes

$6.43

Goodreads rating: 3.96

$6.43

59% off est. retail
"My Heart and Other Black Holes" is a poignant and unconventional love story between two teenagers planning to commit suicide together. They connect deeply through their shared despair and hopelessness in a way that makes their decision to end their lives even more heart-wrenching. However, as the deadline approaches, they begin to question whether they truly want to go through with it. This book is recommended for readers who enjoy emotional stories that explore the complexities of mental health and the power of human connection.
Butter - Thryft
Sold out
Erin Jade Lange | Faber And Faber

Butter

$6.34

Goodreads rating: 3.69

$6.34

65% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for someone who appreciates dark humor and is interested in stories about unconventional characters. Butter takes you on a journey through the life of a lonely outcast who, in his desperate attempt to be noticed, sets a terrifying deadline for himself. As you follow his story, you'll experience a rollercoaster of emotions - from gasping at his audacity to laughing at his wit, and even shedding a tear or two. If you've ever felt like an outsider or have been bullied, this book will resonate with you on a deeply personal level, reminding you that even in the darkest of moments, there's always a glimmer of hope and the possibility of finding your own voice.
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Sold out
Stephen Chbosky | Simon & Schuster

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

$3.90

Goodreads rating: 4.24

$3.90

79% off est. retail
If you've ever felt like you're on the outside looking in, "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" might resonate deeply with you. It’s a candid exploration of the highs and lows of teenage life. Chbosky’s writing will transport you back to the heartaches and triumphs of growing up, all while encouraging you to find your place on the dance floor of life.

Explore Modern Narratives

Whether you’re drawn to gritty urban plots or stories focused on tender relationships, novels in our Contemporary Fiction section echo the complexities of today’s world. Immerse yourself in stories that capture significant human experiences, by insightful authors from around the globe. This is our gateway to modern narratives shaping the future of literature.