Book List

Best Indie Middle-Grade and YA Books of 2025

CHILDREN'S

THE ADVENTURES OF THE FLASH GANG

by M.M. Downing & S.J. Waugh

A third series installment that offers compelling storytelling with emotional depth and chilling suspense. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

The Voyage of the Albatross

written and illustrated by Jean Dumiere

Dreamy illustrations and enchanting prose make for an uplifting, poignant tale of growing up and letting go. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

The Little Things That Kill

by Annie Fox

A compassionate exploration of friendship and betrayal wrapped up in a true page-turning mystery. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

TEENS & YOUNG ADULT

ASH & FEATHER

written and illustrated by Sharon Frances

Rich language and striking visuals reveal emotional lessons about family, resolution, and love. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

FICTION

ECO REIGN

by L. Galuppo

Vicious alien conquest and oppression drive this provocative YA/SF thriller. Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

CHILDREN'S

Like That Eleanor

by Lee Wind ; illustrated by Kelly Mangan

An ideal guide for readers of any age to learn how to be an ally—“one way each of us can help make our world more fair.” Full review >

FULL REVIEW >

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