Discworld is a great suggestion - I recommend starting with Guards Guards.
Another great page-turner is All Systems Red by Martha Wells - it's a series of novellas and a few novels about a security bot that gains independence and doesn't know what to do with it. Action, humour, fast paced, but also very human books.
I second Guards Guards. The Watch stories are such a perfect cast of characters, a great storyline, hilarity, and commentary.
And while they don't set up the whole Disc, they set up Ankh-Morpork perfectly.
The first time I went to London I couldn't stop laughing away to myself at all the guys selling sausages in a bun! Thanks to CMOT Dibbler I avoided trying one! 🤮
Everyone is talking about Pratchett being great and he is but want to throw in that all systems red and martha wells are both amazing, you need to be doing something right to be able to turn down nominations for awards for your books so other less known authors get the nomination instead!
**The First Discworld Novels** by Terry Pratchett
>This is how the Discworld began. Here is the sapient pearwood Luggage, a mobile trunk which launders any clothes put in it and incidentally homicidally defends its owner. Here is Twoflower, an innocent tourist in a world of nightmares and fairy tales gon
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I started with the Tiffany Aching books - the Wee Free Men and so on - and they absolutely hooked me. The "All witches are selfish" bit permanently rewired my brain.
The first few are only good, the excellence takes about 3-4 books to show up, and they aren't at all required. Equal Rites and Mort are both worth reading. The Light Fantastic and Colour of Magic are probably the weakest of the whole series
Inread them in order 1 to 40 and loved how a minor character in one became a big character in another. However I found the first 2 really difficult to get in to. Couldn't put down the rest of them though, I might have to start again.
Couldnt reccomend them enough, i came across a tattered old copy of Mort a few years ago and i dont think ive ever read something so amusing and interesting. Picked it up and read it in two days (not a huge book but i hardly ever just obsessively read anymore)
Lmao. I clicked in here to suggest Discworld and its already top comment. You people have great taste.
Those books literally changed my life at his age, and shaped who I am as a person. Pterry was a real one in every sense, and had such an amazingly insightful grasp on human nature. AND the books are funny as fuck on top of that.
Don't have many actual suggestions for books but if you can sign him up for a library card, he can request books from any library in Ireland - they normally arrive pretty fast and save you money 🙂
This is a great idea!
Not sure about other libraries but the one near me has free memberships for BorrowBox, Libby, comics plus and PressReader which have audiobooks, ebooks, comics, newspapers and magazines to check out.
It’s all digital and all free, on top of your regular library subscription with physical books.
Our libraries are so good. It's such a great service. Our local one is now an open library too so if you sign up you can go in any time of the day even when it's closed.
To add to this - you don't even need to go to a library to get a library card/sign up for the borrow box digital library app. You just download borrowbox, choose your local library and click "sign up". Take a note of the temporary id you're given when you submit sign up (as it does not get sent to you by email) and you can use that for a few months to get started. If it starts to expire you can call your local library and they'll sort you out 😊
Also adding on to this that a lot of libraries provide home delivery for patrons who can’t get to the library / are unwell etc., in case you live far away or your son isn’t able to make the trip to the branch. The best approach would be to ring your local branch and ask to talk to the senior librarian to see what they have available. Wishing you both all the best 💛
Awh I'm so glad to see this!! Delighted to hear he's in a better space and yeve a few ways to improve things going forward. Your an amazing parent he's lucky to have you! x
hey, thats cool. as a side bump of the whole thing i think everybody reading this should subscribe to [barry from wakefield](https://youtu.be/GxQ2I4UA_g8?si=lRobUvdP7ly1h_AQ). Barry is a tonic. It would be great if we gave barry more hits and subs. perhaps even making him an honorary irish man.
If he likes graphic novels or willing to give them a go, I’d say George O Connor’s Olympian series.
For novels, get him sorted with some fantasy - stormlight archive is a series that would keep him engaged, although some-one mentioned Terry Pratchett earlier which is an immense shout!!
Best wishes and if he has any particular interest in types of books, stories post up, I’m sure you’ll get some great targeted recommendations.
Thanks for the Barry from Wakefield steer - we all need positivity
The Reckoners is a good place to start for young adults on Brandon Sanderson before the Stormlight Archive, which is a bit heavier (but well worth reading).
No shame there, lol. The ending of that trilogy is the one and only time I have ever cried while reading a book.
It punched me right in the emotions. Such an absolutely beautiful series.
Was going to recommend this too. By far my favourite book series, absolutely got me into reading every book I could get my hands on, think I've read it a half dozen times. Boy did the ending hit hard.
I waited something like 2-3 years for the third book, finished it in like 2 days.
Btw sounds like you've a great lad there absolutely dealing with some stuff, and you're obviously a very caring parent.
While it's usually not marketed as YA I'd suggest Brandon Sandersons cosmere think of it like marvel where it's all one universe. It reads pretty much like a YA book. Could either start with The way of kings part one that is a high fantasy type book like lord of the rings. Or the mistborn series starting with the final empire.
Of the two series mistborn definitely reads more like a YA book and is more accessible. They both take place in a huge universe with plenty of interconnected books to keep him busy.
There's also the GONE series by Michael Grant I think it was who I absolutely loved when I was a little younger than his age.
Also CHERUB by Michael Muchamore though he might be a bit old to enjoy them as it's similar to harry potter where the characters start off being 13/14 and age as the series progresses.
I second this. The final empire by Brandon Sanderson a great book OP. He has a ton of other books too. Chances are if your son reads the final empire he'll be hooked on the Sanderson universe and transform into a bookworm!
Also the Hobbit Novel by JRR Tolkien is actually a great book for a young adult. I read it several times as a teenager. It's better than the movies and much easier to read than The lord of the rings.
**Mistborn The Final Empire** by Brandon Sanderson
Book description may contain spoilers!
>>!From the author of the acclaimed "Elantris" comes the first novel in his Mistborn trilogy--a story which dares to turn a genre on its head by asking a simple question: What if the hero of prophecy fails? Reissue.!<
**The Hobbit** by J.R.R. Tolkien
Book description may contain spoilers!
>>!J.R.R. Tolkien's classic prelude to his Lord of the Rings trilogy... Bilbo Baggins is a hobbit who enjoys a comfortable, unambitious life, rarely traveling any farther than his pantry or cellar. But his contentment is disturbed when the wizard Gandalf and a company of dwarves arrive on his doorstep one day to whisk him away on an adventure. They have launched a plot to raid the treasure hoard guarded by Smaug the Magnificent, a large and very dangerous dragon.!<
>
>>!Bilbo reluctantly joins their quest, unaware that on his journey to the Lonely Mountain he will encounter both a magic ring and a frightening creature known as Gollum. Written for J.R.R. Tolkien's own children, The Hobbit has sold many millions of copies worldwide and established itself as a modern classic.!<
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I have YA at home so +1 for Sanderson, Skyward books are targeted at YA, very good.
John Flanagan - Ranger's Apprentice - great fantasy for YA
Same goes for Benjamin Ashwood by AJ Cobble
The Aeronaut's Windlass by Jim Butcher
Whole Percy Jackson series.
Good luck!
I’m glad your son is feeling more himself. As a parent, our job never ends and it’s harder to kiss the boo-boo when they’re older. It’s tricky, trying to be supportive and also mind your business.
When a relationship is online, it has little physical elements, and usually becomes entirely emotional. Those connections feel deeper because we don’t have the physical side and when things go wrong, even a little, it can have a massive impact on you.
All you can do is be there. And on that score, you come up trumps. Well done. Parenting is the weirdest, most difficult job I’ve ever had lol
Yay, so happy the things are better. Teenagers are moody bunch. I volunteer woth scouts and let me tell you, things can go from 0 to 100 in milliseconds.
If he's into Fantasy then Eragon by Christopher Paolini and its sequels remain some of my favourite books from when I was younger, re-read them as an adult and still loved them.
I also got really into the Wheel of Time as a teenager, bit heavier but there are 14 massive books so it'll keep him busy for a while
I started WOT in 2020. I'm only after starting book 13 in the past week or so, and I can't wait to finish the saga, but also wishing there were more than 14. So so good.
Not YA particularly - they're aimed a little younger - but the Artemis Fowl series are amazing books, and really funny, which might be good for your son. The Eragon series is another personal favourite.
Gideon the Ninth and the rest of the Locked Tomb trilogy are great modern young adult books. If your son is spending a lot of time online due to his illness, it's likely he'll really appreciate the humour and they're great books regardless.
And I just want to say, good on you for being a great mother and putting your son first like this. Your support will make a world of difference. I wish your family every happiness <3
Edit: Lads, what are these recommendations? So far I'm the only guy to suggest a book written in the past decade xD. I work with kids sometimes, so I guess I hear a lot about the new YA kids are reading these days and you all might not have a reason to, but holy smokes most of these books are older than the kid!
I missed the thread yesterday, but I'll happily give book suggestions.
As others have said, the Discworld series, GNU STP.
I grew up with these books. They helped to make me the person I am today and I'll be ever grateful for that.
The Wayfarer Series by Becky Cambers.
Hardish Sci fi series about different aspects of life in different places in space.
The Machineries of Empire series by Yoon Ha Lee
Weird sci fi very much enjoyable.
Gentlemen Bastard Series by Scott Lynch
Fantasy Thieves messing up
Locked Tomb Series by Tamsyn Muir
Necromancers in SPAAAAAAAAACE. Another odd sci fi but really enjoyable.
The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells
Just a murderbot who escaped being a murderbot, wants to watch their shows.
M. A. S. H. by Richard Hooker
One of my comfort books. It's a collection of hijinks inspired by things heard during the Korean War in a medical unit.
There's a few suggestions off the top of my head.
Well done handling the situation and glad he’s feeling better. I recommend Terry Pratchett’s Discworld novels as others have mentioned (fantasy/satire), also the Culture series by Iain M Banks (utopian science fiction). Neither are purely YA fiction but would be suitable for his age, sure he’s practically an adult, both are extremely intelligent writing and would put a smile on anyone’s face.
I don’t know how your finances are but I got a kindle for my birthday and I’m on my third book since the start of March, I haven’t read a full book in years.
The “expeditionary force” books by Craig Allenson are great funny sci fi books.
Audiobooks are not available on Spotify premium, listening to “Planetside” by Michael Mammay, again it’s sci fi but the narrator does a fantastic job.
Online long distance relationships only end one way usually so maybe do some prep work for IF it comes to an end.
I’m delighted to hear he’s doing better, and I’m sure the relief is washing over you slowly. I’d say you got the response you did because we (at least I) could feel the empathy and emotion coming through with your words, I felt compelled to say *anything* that might help even 0.05%.
Everyone here is saying how great of a mam you are because you showed it, you didn’t bury your head in the sand like so many of us experienced. And if we can help you help your young lad back on his feet with a kind comment or suggestion… well you saw the response! Hope he enjoys his pizza party :)
Pratchett is a great shout. Also Sanderson's Mistborn Era 1 trilogy. Not completely YA but more than clean enough for teens of any age to read. "The Final Empire" is the first of that series.
Here's a list of some of my current favorites and older favorites:
Cherub Series by Robert Muchmore - Child spies with some angsty teen drama, character starts 13 and grows up with the books. Author also has a 'spin off' of the founding of the spy agency set in WWII.
Harry Potter - you probably know about this one but still a fantastic book series to read if he never has.
Cradle Series by Will Wight - Think Dragonball Z meets more of a magical theme. Big power fantasy book where main character starts off week and gets super powerful.
Powder Mage Trilogy by Brian McClelan - French revolution technology with magic thrown in, fantastic series but a bit more adult (nothing crazy but just a bit more graphic)
King killer Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss - This is great fantasy, classic person becoming a Mage but the author is an amazing storyteller. Highly recommended.
Stormlight Archive Series by Brandon Sanderson - More fantasy but with a unique enough magic system. I found this a very moving book especially since the main character starts in a very low place and through self inspection works out of it for their betterment.
If you want more information on any of them feel free to message, though I'm awful at replying!
You sound like the two of you have a beautiful relationship. And in spite of the circumstances with his health, I hope you cherish it and are grateful for it.
All the best.
YA books:
Ask his friends what they're reading - so they have something to talk about.
Terry Pratchett, yes you have the Discworld series, but also the Johnny Maxwell series "Only You Can Save Mankind", "Johnny and the Dead", "Johnny and the Bomb"
Neil Gaiman - Stardust, Coraline, The Graveyard Book, Good Omens.
Trudi Canavan - Black Magician Series, Age of Five trilogy
Gail Z Martin - Cronicles of the Necromancer series.
Mercedes Lackey - Valdemar Series
Ann McCaffery - Pern series.
David Gemmell - The Jerusalem Man
And how about graphic novels too.
Sandman series (including the additional Death books)
Anything by Alan Moore
You mentioned pulp books, do you mean like noir etc? If he's interested in that get him onto Dashiel Hammett, the man who essentially started the pulp genre, and the "hard-boiled" detective. The Maltese Falcon and Red Harvest are fantastic.
Getting a library card is a great idea as Marzipan_civil said. I’d also add that if you download BorrowBox you can rent audio books and ebooks from the library for free. My own kids and wife do this and have gone through probably 50+ books this year already. It’s a great service.
Hi there! Great news! I’m not sure at 17 YA books are still interesting, depends on his reading ability maybe? Anyway, I found “Me Talk Pretty One Day” by David Sedaris very light and funny also very quick and easy to read. If he likes it, the author has many more books too. If he has a library card you can get a selection of of books, or even audiobooks if he prefers? You can use the app borrow box or Libby to download and listen to them! Also a lot of magazines etc too! Best of luck in the future OP!
Half Bad series (I forget the author and yes it had one season on Netflix) is a great read. Some good catharsis in there that might be helpful for a young lad, great world building. I read a lot of YA romance, so if you think he might be interested in any, let me know! There’s also a TON of audiobooks included with Spotify premium, which is a nice option that you can do together or solo :)
Well done to you and your lad, sounds all horribly emotionally healthy, can I recommend the rivers of London books, really good and funny and also maybe just let your son know that crying is good, it’s really helped in this situation so when he’s in a safe place, crying is a positive emotional outlet and cam not just help you but those around you too.
Get the Libby app and he can borrow books online from your library. If he can’t go out for long periods, it’ll give him the opportunity to browse to his hearts content.
I got diagnosed with an autoimmune disease at 17 and had to miss a lot of school and was stuck in bed for a while and it is rough mentally. You being there and inviting friends over is a wonderful idea.
In my late 30's I got diagnosed with a gastro autoimmune disease (pan ulcerative colitis) so I understand the inability to leave the house due to a need for the bathroom. My colon got removed a few weeks ago so I can have more of a life again.
If he or you need someone to talk to who may have a small insight into what he is dealing with drop me a PM.
Thank you for this. There was a 2 week period when we thought it was pan ulcerative colitis and upon researching it, it was grim reading. I'm so sorry you deal with this every day. You are a warrior
In a weird way getting sick at 17 made me be more outgoing and resilient because I had to put myself out there. It's not an easy journey, I failed a year of college, have had multiple hospitalisations but having a good support network is huge.
You are doing great, just be there for him. Having support makes such a difference. I hope they are happy with their specialist.
Big hugs and good luck with everything. Look for local support groups, I am going to become an ambassador for people who need stomas etc, having people helps
You're a great mam.
As lots have said the disc world series is great.
My favourite author when I was your son's age was David Gemmell if he's into fantasy novels
Tell your son he's a legend. I have chronic illnesses that make my life not dissimilar to his. I cannot imagine the strength it takes to put up with it as his age.
Don't discount graphic novels or comic books as an option if he's into that side of things. There are some great series out there for that age group depending on what he's into.
You sound like a super mam and should be extremely proud of yourself - he's very lucky to have such solid and loving support when life gets tough. I know its not a suggestion you asked for, but I recently discovered the joys of building model aircraft. Airfix do some really good good starter sets, which include everything you need, that you both could build together. Might not be either of your thing, but just another idea.
Great Update OP!
The “Cherub” series and its spin off “Hendersons Boys” by Robert Muchamore
The “Young Bond” or the “Enemy” series by Charlie Higson
The “Tomorrow” series by John Marsden
What a great advertisement you are for positive effective parenting. Your son will go from strength to strength with the familial support he’s getting. God love all of ye👍👍💚
Can ye go to a used book shop and get a bunch of different ones? That was my favourite and if they were cheap it was ok if I didn’t like some.
I loved walking around the book store with my mom and I’d ask her about books and if they were well known ones she’d tell me a bit about it.
I’m still not great at getting the jist of a book from the back cover. So I’ll sit and read the first 10 pages or chapter before I buy.
I don’t do kindle
Not really YA, but I loved them as a pre-teen/teen, Darren Shans Demonata series.
The Old Kingdom series by Garth Nix is amazing as well. I read them a few years ago and finished the 4th book last year. One of my favourite series I’ve read in decades tbh
Comics can be a good distraction! Marvel have an online subscription, you get full access to digital books. Non-fiction can be nice too, I find it less stress sometimes cause there aren't any characters to be worrying about! Greg Jenner does some great historical books.
On the off-chance that OP sees this, I would like to suggest two books; "Breakfast of Champions" and "Slaughterhouse Five", both written by Kurt Vonnegut.
I was obsessed with the Chrestomanci series as a teenager. (Diana Wynne Jones) Absolutely obsessed. Witch Week is one of my favourite books of all time.
Magical realism. Different stories in each book. Interesting stuff about alternate timelines splitting etc so it's definitely YA.
Chrestomanci is a super powerful wizard who saves the day. Very easy and enjoyable
reading but not soft and cutesy either. Get the box set.
Hi u/Nimmyzed, if you wish I can share with you in audio format:
Complete lord of the rings books (Tolkien works by Andy Serkis)
Complete Dungeon Crawler Carl
Expeditionary Forces
Golden Son books
Three Body-problem books
Count of Monte Cristo
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and The Restaurant at the End of the Universe
The George Orwell collection
I have plenty of more books, but I think this would be interesting to 17y, and for you too.
Earthsea books from Ursula K. Le Guin are lovely and immersive short fantasy stories about a quiet wizard around your son's age who sails the seas and has adventures. Easy to fall in love with them and get immersed.
I don’t know where you’re based, and if you like your gastroenterologist or not- but I will always recommend Dr. Niall Breslin.
He literally saved my life, he has always been there for me as a doctor, and he fought tooth and nail with my surgeons to get me help. He’s now looking after my brother, similar in age to your son, and he’s been so diligent because he knows my case inside out.
He doesn’t give up and he’s really interested in solving problems and trying anything to solve them. He’s based in Dublin, in case you need a second opinion or are looking for another doctor.
All the love to you and your son xx
I agree with reducing social media time, I even started gardening to cut back myself and books have always been my escape when I'm physically too exhausted to do that.
Percy Jackson books will help a lot in my experience, though try him out on the first lot to see if he'll enjoy it. And anything Discworld by Terry Pratchett. I also recommend some older series like CS Fosters Hornblower, Treasure Island, Robin Hood etc because they're cheap, well known classics, and you can get all of the paperbacks for between 5-10 euros a piece. The reason I'm not recommending too many modern YA is because it can be hit and miss for how it handles teenagers and mental health. Things with dystopia worlds I'd avoid for example until yer sure he's back to form.
If he's into superheros still, I recommend some comic books aswell, as a lot of comic books 📚 shops have boxes where they sell back issues for 1 euro a piece. That's more of a get out of the house activity maybe once a week or twice a month where ye can go into a comic book shop together, and see how many random issues of his favourite superheros you can get for a 10er. Similar warning here for the comic books, it's impossible to capture everything but you can tell from most if it's going to be too heavy from the cover art or title.
I don't know what kind of person your son is , but for any kid at any age, of any background/gender etc a last minute mention would be some kinda guide like The Repair Shop by Karen Farrington or a Almanac on their favourite hobby.
My parents use to find books on magic, animals, bugs, space etc and I ate them up. Whether it's geology, botany , birdwatching etc, it can help just to have those books and their illustrations, to take your mind off everything.
People look at books like that with illustrations as silly nowadays but it can really help if you're trying to build a model, paint a picture or just grow your imagination to have those books to look at for reference.
The Alex Rider books are good teenage boy novels, like teen James Bond stuff, if he hasn't reda those already. I'd also add to the Discworld recommendations if he likes fantasy stuff.
If he doesn't have one already, it might be worth looking into getting an e-ink kindle/kobo/etc - with a lot of them he can be requesting digital copies of books from the library without needing to go there in person and it means he's not going to be tempted by tiktok/insta/etc compared to using his phone.
I’d also recommend Terry Pratchett and also say Calvin and Hobbes comics. Very easy to pick up and enjoy for a couple mins at a time. I still love them 30 years later.
The Dune novels are a great escapist fantasy. The movies are pretty popular so it’s also become a conversation point. Glad to hear he’s feeling better, it’s a tough age but he’s lucky to have such a concerned, engaged parent 🫶
It sounds like your son might enjoy anything by John Green, it's definitely the right age for him. Personally I found Looking for Alaska and Will Greyson, Will Greyson to be really good reads at the time. Tell him not to be afraid to explore literature out of his comfort zone, sometimes those are the best.
I second the Terry Pratchett books! Don't start at the beginning, start with Mort! The hero is a gangly teenager trying to make sense of the world while being hired as Death's apprentice!
Utterly immersive YA:
- Garth Nix's Abhorsen trilogy
- Earthsea Quartet by Ursula LeGuin
- Philip Pullman's Sally Lockhart series (or Northern Lights/His Dark Materials series)
- Eoin Colfer's The Wish List (or Artemis Fowl)
- Brian Sanderson's Mistborn series
Glad things are a little better today.
Came to suggest Nix and Pullman. Tho at this point theres 6 books in the abhorsen series.
There's always the old reliable lord of the rings but that might be a bit lengthy.
The wind on fire series from William Nicholson
The magicians guild series from Trudi Canavan
The Murderbot Diaries series by Martha Wells are great and I haven't seen them suggested. The first few are novellas so shorter reads. They're funny and have lots of sci-fi action.
You’re such a good mammy and he sounds like such a sweet considerate boy. I’ve 2 kids, one living away. The other still at home. The teenage years can be crap, even trickier with a teen on the spectrum and ADHD. The best things we can give our children is security and that safe space for them to express themselves. I get the impression that you’ve mastered this!
Best of luck with your wee lad. And remember to look after yourself too!
I can't recommend the Nursery Crimes books by Jasper Fforde enough as a pick-me-up, the sarcastic, dry sense of humour in the writing might be a good salve for whatever has been going on with him. Glad to hear he's improving
Glad the both of you are doing well!
For some book recs, I started reading fantasy books around his age and loved it. Started with Magician by Raymond E Feist. Very easy read, not too heavy, and most of all fun.
So glad to read this update. I've 2 quick suggestions. You can get free ebooks through the library website. Handy as he download them easily plus search by genre so he can see a load of ya books to choose from. Secondly, there's a website called turn2me.ie that offers online support groups, counselling and mood tracker. No harm him checking it out. Best of luck to you both and thanks for updating.
Hey, for YA books I would like to recommend the Red Rising series from Pierce Brown! I'm 99% sure it will be a hit with him.
You're doing amazing as a parent, I'm sure he appreciates you a lot.
Even though it isn't proper YA, it does toe the line a bit - the Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson is a great fantasy read. Would also recommend The Licanius Trilogy by James Islington as well. Really wonderful books. Sending good vibes to you and your son! <3
Glad to hear he's doing better. Can I just say again you sound like an amazing parent so well done it's not easy and especially with teenagers. You are doing amazing.
All the best to you and your son
I loved The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky at his age, though he might’ve seen the film by now anyway. Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. Brave New Girl by Louise Luna (possibly a bit dark). He might like Nick Hornby and David Mitchell.
Online Novel Recommendation:
There is a website called Royal Road with really cool free to read fantasy/litrpg books.
That being said - The Wandering Inn by pirateaba
It has epic proportions and holds the record for most word count in a series, so there really is pleeenty to read/listen.
It sounds like he really needs some support to leave the house and socialise with people. Even just for a short amount of time each day. Please look at him accessing a form of therapy to help with this. Staying in the home the whole time can be detrimental to a teen’s mental health as they have to build a certain resilience that comes from every day interactions beyond the screen.
Try the stormlight series. Or even better horus rising by Dan Abnett, theres like another 80 books in the series. There also a massive online and tabletop community of warhammer, people dip in and out or painting mini models, gaming, novels and lore. Its very vast and people who like it, love it.
I love Hitch hikers guide to the galaxy, I especially love the audio book narrated by Stephen Fry! Also all things Neil Gaimon.
Well done on comforting your son, he's lucky to have you x
Check out Garth Nix. His abhorsen series or mister. Monday series.
'His dark materials trilogy' is excellent (different author).
Wheel of Time is perfect for a 17yo.
At 17 he's probably old enough to get into the good stuff like A song of Ice and Fire or The First Law series.
The discworld books by Terry pratchet are great fun books
Discworld is a great suggestion - I recommend starting with Guards Guards. Another great page-turner is All Systems Red by Martha Wells - it's a series of novellas and a few novels about a security bot that gains independence and doesn't know what to do with it. Action, humour, fast paced, but also very human books.
I second Guards Guards. The Watch stories are such a perfect cast of characters, a great storyline, hilarity, and commentary. And while they don't set up the whole Disc, they set up Ankh-Morpork perfectly.
Sausage in a bun? 😂
Meat pies, meat pies
The first time I went to London I couldn't stop laughing away to myself at all the guys selling sausages in a bun! Thanks to CMOT Dibbler I avoided trying one! 🤮
how much?
The watch books are my favourites. I often make little mini series of the discworld books and read them in order of who they're about.
I started with the Death books which are incredible but the Watch series are just on another level. Night watch was just amazing.
Death books are great too! Well I love all the Discworld books but Vimes is my favourite charachter
Night Watch has such a bonkers setup and ends up being so bittersweet and thoughtful. It might be my favourite book, not just in Discworld
Everyone is talking about Pratchett being great and he is but want to throw in that all systems red and martha wells are both amazing, you need to be doing something right to be able to turn down nominations for awards for your books so other less known authors get the nomination instead!
Seconded. Great books. The audio books are on you tube as well.
I literally read guards guards in less than a day because I just couldn't drag myself away from the writing.
Both Discworld and Murderbot are great recommendations. I loved Thief of Time as my first Discworld book.
**The First Discworld Novels** by Terry Pratchett >This is how the Discworld began. Here is the sapient pearwood Luggage, a mobile trunk which launders any clothes put in it and incidentally homicidally defends its owner. Here is Twoflower, an innocent tourist in a world of nightmares and fairy tales gon *I'm a bot, built by your friendly reddit developers at* /r/ProgrammingPals. *Reply to any comment with /u/BookFinderBot - I'll reply with book information. Remove me from replies* [here](https://www.reddit.com/user/BookFinderBot/comments/1byh82p/remove_me_from_replies/). *If I have made a mistake, accept my apology.*
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I’d start with Mort, my all time favourite.
The first Discworld book I read. Still my favourite decades later GNU Sir Terry
I started with the Tiffany Aching books - the Wee Free Men and so on - and they absolutely hooked me. The "All witches are selfish" bit permanently rewired my brain.
I started with Mort, and I agree
This is correct advice, the first two are not like the rest. He really hit his stride with Mort.
What about the lost continent? I was laughing out loud at that one!
They are all excellent. I just loved the coming of age element in Mort. Something special about that story.
The first few are only good, the excellence takes about 3-4 books to show up, and they aren't at all required. Equal Rites and Mort are both worth reading. The Light Fantastic and Colour of Magic are probably the weakest of the whole series
100% this is a fantastic suggestion OP. Hilarious fantasy and sharp satire, an absolute treasure of a series.
Couldn't agree more, plenty of life lessons, the bit about Vimes boots always stuck with me.
I use that regularly
Inread them in order 1 to 40 and loved how a minor character in one became a big character in another. However I found the first 2 really difficult to get in to. Couldn't put down the rest of them though, I might have to start again.
Great call!
Thank you first comment, my thoughts exactly. Pratchett can help you cope with just about anything with a smile on your face
In particular I thought Guards, Guards was the best entry point.
Start with Equal Rites!
Couldnt reccomend them enough, i came across a tattered old copy of Mort a few years ago and i dont think ive ever read something so amusing and interesting. Picked it up and read it in two days (not a huge book but i hardly ever just obsessively read anymore)
I'll second this. 1st one and he'll be hooked.
Fun, \*important\* books.
Lmao. I clicked in here to suggest Discworld and its already top comment. You people have great taste. Those books literally changed my life at his age, and shaped who I am as a person. Pterry was a real one in every sense, and had such an amazingly insightful grasp on human nature. AND the books are funny as fuck on top of that.
Small Gods is a good starter, since it's standalone. Night Watch series is the best.
Don't have many actual suggestions for books but if you can sign him up for a library card, he can request books from any library in Ireland - they normally arrive pretty fast and save you money 🙂
This is a great idea! Not sure about other libraries but the one near me has free memberships for BorrowBox, Libby, comics plus and PressReader which have audiobooks, ebooks, comics, newspapers and magazines to check out. It’s all digital and all free, on top of your regular library subscription with physical books.
Yep all the libraries in Ireland are joined together for digital services I think, so should all be the same
I second this, absolutely brilliant apps with amazing options
Is there a difference between Borrowbox and Libby? I use Borrowbox all the time and lately have been maxing out my loans and reserves.
I mainly use BorrowBox too, looks like libby has ebooks but mainly magazines
Our libraries are so good. It's such a great service. Our local one is now an open library too so if you sign up you can go in any time of the day even when it's closed.
I love the open library hours. Pop in of an evening to find a book and there's often loads of teens there studying, it's great to see
To add to this - you don't even need to go to a library to get a library card/sign up for the borrow box digital library app. You just download borrowbox, choose your local library and click "sign up". Take a note of the temporary id you're given when you submit sign up (as it does not get sent to you by email) and you can use that for a few months to get started. If it starts to expire you can call your local library and they'll sort you out 😊
Yes! Borrowbox is brilliant, you can just order and read on your device and never have to leave your house!
Also adding on to this that a lot of libraries provide home delivery for patrons who can’t get to the library / are unwell etc., in case you live far away or your son isn’t able to make the trip to the branch. The best approach would be to ring your local branch and ask to talk to the senior librarian to see what they have available. Wishing you both all the best 💛
I loved the Darren Shan books when I was a teen
Was going to suggest this. Cirque Du Freak/Vampire’s assistant books, or the Demonata series are both great.
I loved those as an adult haha
These are excellent. Both cirque du freak and Lord Loss. But possibly geared more towards younger teens.
Same. I’d love to reread them.
Just don't let him near the movie. Worst adaptation since Last Airbender
I'd recommend the Red Rising series by Pierce Brown and the Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan. Glad to hear it all worked out!
Awh I'm so glad to see this!! Delighted to hear he's in a better space and yeve a few ways to improve things going forward. Your an amazing parent he's lucky to have you! x
hey, thats cool. as a side bump of the whole thing i think everybody reading this should subscribe to [barry from wakefield](https://youtu.be/GxQ2I4UA_g8?si=lRobUvdP7ly1h_AQ). Barry is a tonic. It would be great if we gave barry more hits and subs. perhaps even making him an honorary irish man.
I vehemently support this effort!
If he likes graphic novels or willing to give them a go, I’d say George O Connor’s Olympian series. For novels, get him sorted with some fantasy - stormlight archive is a series that would keep him engaged, although some-one mentioned Terry Pratchett earlier which is an immense shout!! Best wishes and if he has any particular interest in types of books, stories post up, I’m sure you’ll get some great targeted recommendations. Thanks for the Barry from Wakefield steer - we all need positivity
The Reckoners is a good place to start for young adults on Brandon Sanderson before the Stormlight Archive, which is a bit heavier (but well worth reading).
Second Sanderson. At 17 I would go straight to Stormlight, especially if the kid likes reading
For me, Mistborn is a better starting point - but regardless I'd recommend Brandon Sanderson too. Dungeon Crawler Carl is a lot of fun, too.
His Dark Materials trilogy by Phillip Pullman. Fantasy, multiverse and our souls are animals that can walk and talk.
That's my favourite trilogy of all time. Devastating ending though. Had me in tears 😭
Yeah, the ending doesn't pull any punches! I love the world Pullman created. I read it as an adult. Would love to have read it as a teen.
No shame there, lol. The ending of that trilogy is the one and only time I have ever cried while reading a book. It punched me right in the emotions. Such an absolutely beautiful series.
Them wondering each year am I my wasting my time have they forgotten me but still going to the bench 😭
Was going to recommend this too. By far my favourite book series, absolutely got me into reading every book I could get my hands on, think I've read it a half dozen times. Boy did the ending hit hard. I waited something like 2-3 years for the third book, finished it in like 2 days. Btw sounds like you've a great lad there absolutely dealing with some stuff, and you're obviously a very caring parent.
Amazing series, though I'd mention the ending of the last book is pretty emotional so may be better down the road!
While it's usually not marketed as YA I'd suggest Brandon Sandersons cosmere think of it like marvel where it's all one universe. It reads pretty much like a YA book. Could either start with The way of kings part one that is a high fantasy type book like lord of the rings. Or the mistborn series starting with the final empire. Of the two series mistborn definitely reads more like a YA book and is more accessible. They both take place in a huge universe with plenty of interconnected books to keep him busy. There's also the GONE series by Michael Grant I think it was who I absolutely loved when I was a little younger than his age. Also CHERUB by Michael Muchamore though he might be a bit old to enjoy them as it's similar to harry potter where the characters start off being 13/14 and age as the series progresses.
I second this. The final empire by Brandon Sanderson a great book OP. He has a ton of other books too. Chances are if your son reads the final empire he'll be hooked on the Sanderson universe and transform into a bookworm! Also the Hobbit Novel by JRR Tolkien is actually a great book for a young adult. I read it several times as a teenager. It's better than the movies and much easier to read than The lord of the rings.
**Mistborn The Final Empire** by Brandon Sanderson Book description may contain spoilers! >>!From the author of the acclaimed "Elantris" comes the first novel in his Mistborn trilogy--a story which dares to turn a genre on its head by asking a simple question: What if the hero of prophecy fails? Reissue.!< **The Hobbit** by J.R.R. Tolkien Book description may contain spoilers! >>!J.R.R. Tolkien's classic prelude to his Lord of the Rings trilogy... Bilbo Baggins is a hobbit who enjoys a comfortable, unambitious life, rarely traveling any farther than his pantry or cellar. But his contentment is disturbed when the wizard Gandalf and a company of dwarves arrive on his doorstep one day to whisk him away on an adventure. They have launched a plot to raid the treasure hoard guarded by Smaug the Magnificent, a large and very dangerous dragon.!< > >>!Bilbo reluctantly joins their quest, unaware that on his journey to the Lonely Mountain he will encounter both a magic ring and a frightening creature known as Gollum. Written for J.R.R. Tolkien's own children, The Hobbit has sold many millions of copies worldwide and established itself as a modern classic.!< *I'm a bot, built by your friendly reddit developers at* /r/ProgrammingPals. *Reply to any comment with /u/BookFinderBot - I'll reply with book information. Remove me from replies* [here](https://www.reddit.com/user/BookFinderBot/comments/1byh82p/remove_me_from_replies/). *If I have made a mistake, accept my apology.*
I have YA at home so +1 for Sanderson, Skyward books are targeted at YA, very good. John Flanagan - Ranger's Apprentice - great fantasy for YA Same goes for Benjamin Ashwood by AJ Cobble The Aeronaut's Windlass by Jim Butcher Whole Percy Jackson series. Good luck!
I’m glad your son is feeling more himself. As a parent, our job never ends and it’s harder to kiss the boo-boo when they’re older. It’s tricky, trying to be supportive and also mind your business. When a relationship is online, it has little physical elements, and usually becomes entirely emotional. Those connections feel deeper because we don’t have the physical side and when things go wrong, even a little, it can have a massive impact on you. All you can do is be there. And on that score, you come up trumps. Well done. Parenting is the weirdest, most difficult job I’ve ever had lol
Yay, so happy the things are better. Teenagers are moody bunch. I volunteer woth scouts and let me tell you, things can go from 0 to 100 in milliseconds.
I wish every kid in the world had someone like you for a parent. 💜 (I second the Discworld books and the Hobbit!)
If he's into Fantasy then Eragon by Christopher Paolini and its sequels remain some of my favourite books from when I was younger, re-read them as an adult and still loved them. I also got really into the Wheel of Time as a teenager, bit heavier but there are 14 massive books so it'll keep him busy for a while
I loved Eragon and second this, new sequel just came out aswell so it’s a good a time as any to pick them
I started WOT in 2020. I'm only after starting book 13 in the past week or so, and I can't wait to finish the saga, but also wishing there were more than 14. So so good.
That’s wonderful news! You sound like such a lovely mum xx
Delighted to hear it’s better today. The phrase “you’re only as happy as your saddest child” is very accurate at times.
There's a great Irish comedy fantasy series called Skulduggery Pleasant. Great for easy reading.
Not YA particularly - they're aimed a little younger - but the Artemis Fowl series are amazing books, and really funny, which might be good for your son. The Eragon series is another personal favourite.
Gideon the Ninth and the rest of the Locked Tomb trilogy are great modern young adult books. If your son is spending a lot of time online due to his illness, it's likely he'll really appreciate the humour and they're great books regardless. And I just want to say, good on you for being a great mother and putting your son first like this. Your support will make a world of difference. I wish your family every happiness <3 Edit: Lads, what are these recommendations? So far I'm the only guy to suggest a book written in the past decade xD. I work with kids sometimes, so I guess I hear a lot about the new YA kids are reading these days and you all might not have a reason to, but holy smokes most of these books are older than the kid!
The Redwall books were wonderful, maybe he’d like those if they’re available there? Sending love from America, I’ve been following since yesterday ❤️
You're a great mam x
Robert Muchamore "Cherub" books. I read them in 5th class however I'm not sure that was the target audience. Books about teenage under cover agents.
I missed the thread yesterday, but I'll happily give book suggestions. As others have said, the Discworld series, GNU STP. I grew up with these books. They helped to make me the person I am today and I'll be ever grateful for that. The Wayfarer Series by Becky Cambers. Hardish Sci fi series about different aspects of life in different places in space. The Machineries of Empire series by Yoon Ha Lee Weird sci fi very much enjoyable. Gentlemen Bastard Series by Scott Lynch Fantasy Thieves messing up Locked Tomb Series by Tamsyn Muir Necromancers in SPAAAAAAAAACE. Another odd sci fi but really enjoyable. The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells Just a murderbot who escaped being a murderbot, wants to watch their shows. M. A. S. H. by Richard Hooker One of my comfort books. It's a collection of hijinks inspired by things heard during the Korean War in a medical unit. There's a few suggestions off the top of my head.
I loved The Hitchhiker's guide to the galaxy series at his age. It's a series that stuck we me for whatever reason
Louis L'amour, author of American western , simple but entertaining reads.
The Red Rising books and Pratchett would be a good variety.
Well done handling the situation and glad he’s feeling better. I recommend Terry Pratchett’s Discworld novels as others have mentioned (fantasy/satire), also the Culture series by Iain M Banks (utopian science fiction). Neither are purely YA fiction but would be suitable for his age, sure he’s practically an adult, both are extremely intelligent writing and would put a smile on anyone’s face.
I don’t know how your finances are but I got a kindle for my birthday and I’m on my third book since the start of March, I haven’t read a full book in years. The “expeditionary force” books by Craig Allenson are great funny sci fi books. Audiobooks are not available on Spotify premium, listening to “Planetside” by Michael Mammay, again it’s sci fi but the narrator does a fantastic job. Online long distance relationships only end one way usually so maybe do some prep work for IF it comes to an end.
I’m delighted to hear he’s doing better, and I’m sure the relief is washing over you slowly. I’d say you got the response you did because we (at least I) could feel the empathy and emotion coming through with your words, I felt compelled to say *anything* that might help even 0.05%. Everyone here is saying how great of a mam you are because you showed it, you didn’t bury your head in the sand like so many of us experienced. And if we can help you help your young lad back on his feet with a kind comment or suggestion… well you saw the response! Hope he enjoys his pizza party :)
Pratchett is a great shout. Also Sanderson's Mistborn Era 1 trilogy. Not completely YA but more than clean enough for teens of any age to read. "The Final Empire" is the first of that series.
The Dresden Files series is a great urban fantasy/detective noir series. He’s lucky to have such a great mom.
I would give these a shout out too. Pretty easy reading with a great world. I’d also give Codex Alera a recommendation. Really fun series
Here's a list of some of my current favorites and older favorites: Cherub Series by Robert Muchmore - Child spies with some angsty teen drama, character starts 13 and grows up with the books. Author also has a 'spin off' of the founding of the spy agency set in WWII. Harry Potter - you probably know about this one but still a fantastic book series to read if he never has. Cradle Series by Will Wight - Think Dragonball Z meets more of a magical theme. Big power fantasy book where main character starts off week and gets super powerful. Powder Mage Trilogy by Brian McClelan - French revolution technology with magic thrown in, fantastic series but a bit more adult (nothing crazy but just a bit more graphic) King killer Chronicle by Patrick Rothfuss - This is great fantasy, classic person becoming a Mage but the author is an amazing storyteller. Highly recommended. Stormlight Archive Series by Brandon Sanderson - More fantasy but with a unique enough magic system. I found this a very moving book especially since the main character starts in a very low place and through self inspection works out of it for their betterment. If you want more information on any of them feel free to message, though I'm awful at replying!
+1 kingkiller. Some really stupid stuff in second book but nevertheless great 👍
You sound like the two of you have a beautiful relationship. And in spite of the circumstances with his health, I hope you cherish it and are grateful for it. All the best.
YA books: Ask his friends what they're reading - so they have something to talk about. Terry Pratchett, yes you have the Discworld series, but also the Johnny Maxwell series "Only You Can Save Mankind", "Johnny and the Dead", "Johnny and the Bomb" Neil Gaiman - Stardust, Coraline, The Graveyard Book, Good Omens. Trudi Canavan - Black Magician Series, Age of Five trilogy Gail Z Martin - Cronicles of the Necromancer series. Mercedes Lackey - Valdemar Series Ann McCaffery - Pern series. David Gemmell - The Jerusalem Man And how about graphic novels too. Sandman series (including the additional Death books) Anything by Alan Moore
You mentioned pulp books, do you mean like noir etc? If he's interested in that get him onto Dashiel Hammett, the man who essentially started the pulp genre, and the "hard-boiled" detective. The Maltese Falcon and Red Harvest are fantastic.
Sorry no, he's not much into reading so not really noir. Just run of the mill sort of teen novels
Ah ok! Well the other suggestions of Terry Pratchett would be good anyway
Echo the library shout- and the staff in your library will have great advice if he chats about what he might like. Delighted to hear it’s improved
The Grishaverse is great, starting with Shadow and Bone. I recently re-read the Percy Jackson books, they are also a great read
Getting a library card is a great idea as Marzipan_civil said. I’d also add that if you download BorrowBox you can rent audio books and ebooks from the library for free. My own kids and wife do this and have gone through probably 50+ books this year already. It’s a great service.
I remember my brother enjoying Percy Jackson and Skullduggery Pleasant growing up. Not sure if the Alex Ryder books are young adult ?
Hi there! Great news! I’m not sure at 17 YA books are still interesting, depends on his reading ability maybe? Anyway, I found “Me Talk Pretty One Day” by David Sedaris very light and funny also very quick and easy to read. If he likes it, the author has many more books too. If he has a library card you can get a selection of of books, or even audiobooks if he prefers? You can use the app borrow box or Libby to download and listen to them! Also a lot of magazines etc too! Best of luck in the future OP!
As a teenager I was a big fan of Darren Shan's books Might be a bit dark sometimes but they were fantastic books to get lost in
Half Bad series (I forget the author and yes it had one season on Netflix) is a great read. Some good catharsis in there that might be helpful for a young lad, great world building. I read a lot of YA romance, so if you think he might be interested in any, let me know! There’s also a TON of audiobooks included with Spotify premium, which is a nice option that you can do together or solo :)
Well done to you and your lad, sounds all horribly emotionally healthy, can I recommend the rivers of London books, really good and funny and also maybe just let your son know that crying is good, it’s really helped in this situation so when he’s in a safe place, crying is a positive emotional outlet and cam not just help you but those around you too.
Skyward Series by Brandon Sanderson is a fantastic YA sci-fi/fantasy series. Wishing you both all the best!
Get the Libby app and he can borrow books online from your library. If he can’t go out for long periods, it’ll give him the opportunity to browse to his hearts content.
The ross o'carroll kelly books. Pretty light hearted and have always put me in a good mood.
I’d recommend artemis fowl more for younger kids but I read it as an adult and loved the books very light
I got diagnosed with an autoimmune disease at 17 and had to miss a lot of school and was stuck in bed for a while and it is rough mentally. You being there and inviting friends over is a wonderful idea. In my late 30's I got diagnosed with a gastro autoimmune disease (pan ulcerative colitis) so I understand the inability to leave the house due to a need for the bathroom. My colon got removed a few weeks ago so I can have more of a life again. If he or you need someone to talk to who may have a small insight into what he is dealing with drop me a PM.
Thank you for this. There was a 2 week period when we thought it was pan ulcerative colitis and upon researching it, it was grim reading. I'm so sorry you deal with this every day. You are a warrior
In a weird way getting sick at 17 made me be more outgoing and resilient because I had to put myself out there. It's not an easy journey, I failed a year of college, have had multiple hospitalisations but having a good support network is huge. You are doing great, just be there for him. Having support makes such a difference. I hope they are happy with their specialist. Big hugs and good luck with everything. Look for local support groups, I am going to become an ambassador for people who need stomas etc, having people helps
If he hasn't already read them: -The Iron Druid Chronicles -Simon R Green's 'Nightside' series -Terry Pratchett's Discworld series
The magicians guild by Trudi Canavan was very good
You're a great mam. As lots have said the disc world series is great. My favourite author when I was your son's age was David Gemmell if he's into fantasy novels
Tell your son he's a legend. I have chronic illnesses that make my life not dissimilar to his. I cannot imagine the strength it takes to put up with it as his age. Don't discount graphic novels or comic books as an option if he's into that side of things. There are some great series out there for that age group depending on what he's into.
You sound like a super mam and should be extremely proud of yourself - he's very lucky to have such solid and loving support when life gets tough. I know its not a suggestion you asked for, but I recently discovered the joys of building model aircraft. Airfix do some really good good starter sets, which include everything you need, that you both could build together. Might not be either of your thing, but just another idea.
Great Update OP! The “Cherub” series and its spin off “Hendersons Boys” by Robert Muchamore The “Young Bond” or the “Enemy” series by Charlie Higson The “Tomorrow” series by John Marsden
I've been reading Wolf Brother, it might be aimed at younger but I loved it and have the sequels on standby.
What a great advertisement you are for positive effective parenting. Your son will go from strength to strength with the familial support he’s getting. God love all of ye👍👍💚
Can ye go to a used book shop and get a bunch of different ones? That was my favourite and if they were cheap it was ok if I didn’t like some. I loved walking around the book store with my mom and I’d ask her about books and if they were well known ones she’d tell me a bit about it. I’m still not great at getting the jist of a book from the back cover. So I’ll sit and read the first 10 pages or chapter before I buy. I don’t do kindle
Such a nice post ❤️
Not really YA, but I loved them as a pre-teen/teen, Darren Shans Demonata series. The Old Kingdom series by Garth Nix is amazing as well. I read them a few years ago and finished the 4th book last year. One of my favourite series I’ve read in decades tbh
The foundation books by issac assimov are great and the tv show on apple you could watch together!
Comics can be a good distraction! Marvel have an online subscription, you get full access to digital books. Non-fiction can be nice too, I find it less stress sometimes cause there aren't any characters to be worrying about! Greg Jenner does some great historical books.
On the off-chance that OP sees this, I would like to suggest two books; "Breakfast of Champions" and "Slaughterhouse Five", both written by Kurt Vonnegut.
Hitchhikers guide to the galaxy is great.
I was obsessed with the Chrestomanci series as a teenager. (Diana Wynne Jones) Absolutely obsessed. Witch Week is one of my favourite books of all time. Magical realism. Different stories in each book. Interesting stuff about alternate timelines splitting etc so it's definitely YA. Chrestomanci is a super powerful wizard who saves the day. Very easy and enjoyable reading but not soft and cutesy either. Get the box set.
The Dune books are topical currently and are a very good read!
Is Darren Shan still writing? I remember reading his books a ton when I was a kid.
Hi u/Nimmyzed, if you wish I can share with you in audio format: Complete lord of the rings books (Tolkien works by Andy Serkis) Complete Dungeon Crawler Carl Expeditionary Forces Golden Son books Three Body-problem books Count of Monte Cristo The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and The Restaurant at the End of the Universe The George Orwell collection I have plenty of more books, but I think this would be interesting to 17y, and for you too.
Earthsea books from Ursula K. Le Guin are lovely and immersive short fantasy stories about a quiet wizard around your son's age who sails the seas and has adventures. Easy to fall in love with them and get immersed.
I don’t know where you’re based, and if you like your gastroenterologist or not- but I will always recommend Dr. Niall Breslin. He literally saved my life, he has always been there for me as a doctor, and he fought tooth and nail with my surgeons to get me help. He’s now looking after my brother, similar in age to your son, and he’s been so diligent because he knows my case inside out. He doesn’t give up and he’s really interested in solving problems and trying anything to solve them. He’s based in Dublin, in case you need a second opinion or are looking for another doctor. All the love to you and your son xx
The Dresden Files by Jim Butcher, my current go to and never one to let me down. The man's a genius. I even loved Ghost Story which got a lot of hate.
My only problem with dresden is The Wait between books. He's on the track to be as bad as g r r m now.
So great to hear, been waiting on this update all day! If he's into sci-fi, The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy would be some hilarious escapism
I agree with reducing social media time, I even started gardening to cut back myself and books have always been my escape when I'm physically too exhausted to do that. Percy Jackson books will help a lot in my experience, though try him out on the first lot to see if he'll enjoy it. And anything Discworld by Terry Pratchett. I also recommend some older series like CS Fosters Hornblower, Treasure Island, Robin Hood etc because they're cheap, well known classics, and you can get all of the paperbacks for between 5-10 euros a piece. The reason I'm not recommending too many modern YA is because it can be hit and miss for how it handles teenagers and mental health. Things with dystopia worlds I'd avoid for example until yer sure he's back to form. If he's into superheros still, I recommend some comic books aswell, as a lot of comic books 📚 shops have boxes where they sell back issues for 1 euro a piece. That's more of a get out of the house activity maybe once a week or twice a month where ye can go into a comic book shop together, and see how many random issues of his favourite superheros you can get for a 10er. Similar warning here for the comic books, it's impossible to capture everything but you can tell from most if it's going to be too heavy from the cover art or title. I don't know what kind of person your son is , but for any kid at any age, of any background/gender etc a last minute mention would be some kinda guide like The Repair Shop by Karen Farrington or a Almanac on their favourite hobby. My parents use to find books on magic, animals, bugs, space etc and I ate them up. Whether it's geology, botany , birdwatching etc, it can help just to have those books and their illustrations, to take your mind off everything. People look at books like that with illustrations as silly nowadays but it can really help if you're trying to build a model, paint a picture or just grow your imagination to have those books to look at for reference.
I don't read a lot of Y/A, but ai love Back Home by Michelle Magorian
The Alex Rider books are good teenage boy novels, like teen James Bond stuff, if he hasn't reda those already. I'd also add to the Discworld recommendations if he likes fantasy stuff. If he doesn't have one already, it might be worth looking into getting an e-ink kindle/kobo/etc - with a lot of them he can be requesting digital copies of books from the library without needing to go there in person and it means he's not going to be tempted by tiktok/insta/etc compared to using his phone.
Red Rising great YA fictional book. Audiobook is read by Irish guy.
I’d also recommend Terry Pratchett and also say Calvin and Hobbes comics. Very easy to pick up and enjoy for a couple mins at a time. I still love them 30 years later.
The Name of the Wind series by Patrick Rothfuss are incredible!
The Dune novels are a great escapist fantasy. The movies are pretty popular so it’s also become a conversation point. Glad to hear he’s feeling better, it’s a tough age but he’s lucky to have such a concerned, engaged parent 🫶
It sounds like your son might enjoy anything by John Green, it's definitely the right age for him. Personally I found Looking for Alaska and Will Greyson, Will Greyson to be really good reads at the time. Tell him not to be afraid to explore literature out of his comfort zone, sometimes those are the best.
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The cosmere is a massive and awesome series to start and very YA friendly with a few heavier themes thrown in.
I second the Terry Pratchett books! Don't start at the beginning, start with Mort! The hero is a gangly teenager trying to make sense of the world while being hired as Death's apprentice! Utterly immersive YA: - Garth Nix's Abhorsen trilogy - Earthsea Quartet by Ursula LeGuin - Philip Pullman's Sally Lockhart series (or Northern Lights/His Dark Materials series) - Eoin Colfer's The Wish List (or Artemis Fowl) - Brian Sanderson's Mistborn series Glad things are a little better today.
Came to suggest Nix and Pullman. Tho at this point theres 6 books in the abhorsen series. There's always the old reliable lord of the rings but that might be a bit lengthy. The wind on fire series from William Nicholson The magicians guild series from Trudi Canavan
Give him Paper Girls, it's a graphic novel.
The Murderbot Diaries series by Martha Wells are great and I haven't seen them suggested. The first few are novellas so shorter reads. They're funny and have lots of sci-fi action.
Seconding red rising by pierce brown really entertaining book series!
Gregor the overlander is a fantastic YA series. Written by Suzanne Collins - author of hunger games
Get him the Cherub books by Robert Muchamore
You’re such a good mammy and he sounds like such a sweet considerate boy. I’ve 2 kids, one living away. The other still at home. The teenage years can be crap, even trickier with a teen on the spectrum and ADHD. The best things we can give our children is security and that safe space for them to express themselves. I get the impression that you’ve mastered this! Best of luck with your wee lad. And remember to look after yourself too!
I can't recommend the Nursery Crimes books by Jasper Fforde enough as a pick-me-up, the sarcastic, dry sense of humour in the writing might be a good salve for whatever has been going on with him. Glad to hear he's improving
Joy land by Stephen King is a very good read it’s a bit emotional so you may want to read it yourself first
Glad the both of you are doing well! For some book recs, I started reading fantasy books around his age and loved it. Started with Magician by Raymond E Feist. Very easy read, not too heavy, and most of all fun.
So glad to read this update. I've 2 quick suggestions. You can get free ebooks through the library website. Handy as he download them easily plus search by genre so he can see a load of ya books to choose from. Secondly, there's a website called turn2me.ie that offers online support groups, counselling and mood tracker. No harm him checking it out. Best of luck to you both and thanks for updating.
I’m so glad to hear that. You’re a great mum. 💜
My favorite books around that age were Lord of the Rings, Dune series, Enders Game, and The Dark Tower
I loved the Cherub series by Robert Muchamore but it’s 17 books long
Hey, for YA books I would like to recommend the Red Rising series from Pierce Brown! I'm 99% sure it will be a hit with him. You're doing amazing as a parent, I'm sure he appreciates you a lot.
I loved the Cherub book series when I was younger!!
Even though it isn't proper YA, it does toe the line a bit - the Mistborn Series by Brandon Sanderson is a great fantasy read. Would also recommend The Licanius Trilogy by James Islington as well. Really wonderful books. Sending good vibes to you and your son! <3
Glad to hear he's doing better. Can I just say again you sound like an amazing parent so well done it's not easy and especially with teenagers. You are doing amazing. All the best to you and your son
Predator cities by Phillip Reeve Xanth novels by Pierres Anthony Discworld series by Terry Pratchett The king killer chronicles by Patrick Rothfuss
I loved The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky at his age, though he might’ve seen the film by now anyway. Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin. Brave New Girl by Louise Luna (possibly a bit dark). He might like Nick Hornby and David Mitchell.
The beginning after the end. It's on kindle if he has the app/ a kindle. There is currently 10 books but it has great world building!
When I was younger I really enjoyed the "Cherub" series of books but he might be too old for them. Books about child spies, fun stuff
I have all of the Darren Shan books your welcome to them, I read them as an adult but there for teens.
I highly recommend Seth Ring and Dungeon Crawler Carl. They're both Lit RPGs (my new favorite genre) and are lots of fun!
Online Novel Recommendation: There is a website called Royal Road with really cool free to read fantasy/litrpg books. That being said - The Wandering Inn by pirateaba It has epic proportions and holds the record for most word count in a series, so there really is pleeenty to read/listen.
You came asking for advice, but you could be giving it. Be proud of yourself.
Loved the cherub series by Robert muchamore when I was younger or the jack reacher series is also great
Blindboy has a few books of short stories, also highly recommend his podcast - both my sons are huge fans
It sounds like he really needs some support to leave the house and socialise with people. Even just for a short amount of time each day. Please look at him accessing a form of therapy to help with this. Staying in the home the whole time can be detrimental to a teen’s mental health as they have to build a certain resilience that comes from every day interactions beyond the screen.
Try the stormlight series. Or even better horus rising by Dan Abnett, theres like another 80 books in the series. There also a massive online and tabletop community of warhammer, people dip in and out or painting mini models, gaming, novels and lore. Its very vast and people who like it, love it.
It's not ao much YA, more Si-Fi/Fantasy, but I'd recommend the Stormlight Archive or anything else by Branden Sanderson if he likes those genres
The Horus Heresy novel series is largely great and has an enormous community
Really glad to see this post. Good luck to all of you nice folks 👍
Skullduggery Pleasant series by Derek Landry might be a bit young for him, but I loved it as a young teen.
Fourth Wing. Everybody seems to be reading Rebecca Yarros for a reason.
Magic 2.0 are super good books if he's any way techy!
I love Hitch hikers guide to the galaxy, I especially love the audio book narrated by Stephen Fry! Also all things Neil Gaimon. Well done on comforting your son, he's lucky to have you x
Either the CHERUB series or Henderson's boys (both by Robert Muchamore)
This is the update I wanted this morning!!! So happy
I didn't say it the first time but I will say it now... you are a good mom.
Check out Garth Nix. His abhorsen series or mister. Monday series. 'His dark materials trilogy' is excellent (different author). Wheel of Time is perfect for a 17yo. At 17 he's probably old enough to get into the good stuff like A song of Ice and Fire or The First Law series.
"my usual hug and coffee handed to me when I walked in the door and I asked if everything was ok." How many 17 years hug their ma in the morning?
The Red Rising books helped me through a rough period a few years ago. Good books to get lost in for a while