If you enjoy reading books by Ibi Zoboi then you might also like the following authors:
Jason Reynolds writes authentic and powerful stories about young people finding their place and voice in today's complex world. In Long Way Down, he explores the impact of gun violence through the gripping story of a teen facing a life-changing choice.
Reynolds' straightforward style and relatable characters resonate deeply, inviting readers to think about tough realities and compelling experiences.
Angie Thomas tells honest and important stories that tackle issues like racism, activism, and identity. Her novel The Hate U Give follows Starr Carter, a teenager witnessing the police shooting of her friend.
Thomas writes with directness and emotion, capturing both tense moments and daily realities of her characters' lives. Readers who appreciate Zoboi's storytelling and authentic portrayals will connect with Thomas' narrative voice.
Elizabeth Acevedo weaves poetry with storytelling, creating emotionally charged narratives that celebrate culture and identity. In her verse novel The Poet X, she introduces Xiomara Batista, a teenager navigating family expectations and discovering her voice through poetry.
Acevedo's vivid writing and honest portrayals of adolescence connect powerfully with readers looking for the emotional depth present in Zoboi's works.
Nic Stone writes engaging stories dealing honestly with issues of race, friendship, and identity in America today.
Her novel, Dear Martin, follows Justyce McAllister, a high-achieving teen confronting systemic racism by writing letters to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Stone's straightforward, conversational style and convincing characters offer perspectives that fans of Zoboi's thoughtful explorations will appreciate.
Renée Watson creates heartfelt and thoughtful narratives exploring themes of home, heritage, and personal growth. In Piecing Me Together, she introduces readers to Jade, a thoughtful teenager determined to decide her own path amidst societal expectations.
Watson writes warmly and honestly, giving readers access to her characters' struggles and dreams. Readers who value the authenticity and relatability of Zoboi's characters will appreciate Watson's writing.
Brandy Colbert writes engaging stories that explore identity, family ties, friendship, and diverse experiences. Her narratives feel real and honest because she approaches complex issues with sensitivity and warmth.
If you enjoyed Ibi Zoboi's thoughtful take on characters finding their place, try Colbert's Little & Lion, a story about the intersection of family, mental health, race, and sexuality.
Tiffany D. Jackson writes powerful narratives that focus on tough social issues. Her realistic characters deal with topics like racism, social injustices, and complicated family dynamics. She uses suspense and mystery in stories that linger far beyond the final page.
If you're drawn to the impactful and socially aware storytelling of Ibi Zoboi, you'll appreciate Jackson's novel Allegedly, a gripping story about a girl trying to reclaim her voice and future after a shocking crime.
Kekla Magoon creates meaningful stories that thoughtfully examine identity, activism, and social change. She shines a clear, authentic light on historical and contemporary issues faced by Black communities, often told through young adult characters seeking justice.
If the inspiring social commentary and character depth in Ibi Zoboi's work resonated with you, I recommend Magoon's How It Went Down, which explores community reactions after a young Black boy is tragically shot, told through multiple voices.
Rita Williams-Garcia expertly depicts strong family dynamics, historical events, and stories of growing up with charm, wit, and tenderness. She crafts vivid portrayals of Black history, family loyalty, and youthful courage.
Fans of Ibi Zoboi's thoughtful storytelling will likely find a rich connection in Williams-Garcia's One Crazy Summer, a tale of sisters reconnecting with their estranged mother during the turbulent summer of 1968 amidst the Black Panther movement.
Sharon M. Draper creates heartfelt stories with emotional depth, often highlighting the challenges and triumphs teens face as they discover who they are. Draper writes with empathy and clarity, conveying both hardship and hope.
Readers who value Ibi Zoboi's compassionate approach to young adult narratives might enjoy Draper's Copper Sun, a compelling historical novel following a young girl facing courageously the horrors of the slave trade and ultimately finding resilience and strength.
Justina Ireland is a creative author known for exciting stories that blend history, fantasy, and sharp social commentary. Her book Dread Nation gives readers an adventurous twist on U.S. history in an alternate past where brave teens battle the undead.
Like Ibi Zoboi, Ireland brings powerful themes of race, identity, and resistance into fresh, action-packed narratives.
Maika and Maritza Moulite are sisters who write emotional, engaging stories about family, identity, and Haitian-American heritage. Their book, Dear Haiti, Love Alaine, follows a spirited teen exploring family secrets and connecting with her roots in Haiti.
Readers who enjoy Zoboi’s realistic portrayal of Haitian culture and family relationships will find much to love.
Yamile Saied Méndez creates heartfelt, realistic stories featuring strong Latina characters navigating culture, family, and self-discovery.
Her novel Furia centers on Camila, a passionate young soccer player determined to challenge expectations and pursue her dreams in Argentina. If you appreciate Zoboi's thoughtful approach to young women's issues, Méndez’s work will resonate with you.
Lilliam Rivera writes lively stories featuring diverse Latinx characters, touching deeply on identity, family ties, and social pressures.
Her novel The Education of Margot Sanchez introduces readers to Margot, a Latina teenager struggling to balance friendships, family expectations, and her own sense of self.
Fans of Zoboi’s authentic teen voices and insightful cultural storytelling will appreciate Rivera’s novels.
Dhonielle Clayton imagines unique worlds and complex characters to explore beauty standards, power, and identity. In her book The Belles, she introduces readers to a society obsessed with beauty and appearances, where a talented teen questions what truly makes someone valuable.
Clayton’s honest reflections on identity and confidence will appeal strongly to readers who connected with Zoboi’s thought-provoking stories.