Have you ever thought to yourself: I want to read something with meaning, but I don't want to read a basic non-fiction book?

If that is the case, I have created a list of the best 4 fictional books that not only entertain but also inform. These novels educate on various themes of inequality, racism, and discrimination, while still being completely captivating. I view the following books as 'must reads' for anyone seeking a holistic education on the systematic inequalities that minorities face every day.

Simon Vs. The [censored] Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli

This novel follows the protagonist Simon Spier, a closeted high school boy, faces the challenges of his sexuality as he secretly emails another closeted student who only reveals himself as "Blue". When his emails to his mysterious lover fall into the wrong hands, his sexuality is threatened through the means of blackmail. This book uncovers the authentic, slightly awkward world of dating while being in the closet.

It makes readers consider the vital question: Why do only LGBTQ people have to announce their sexuality? Why is everyone assumed to be straight until proven gay? I have heard countless people say that this book gave them the confidence to "come out" while also acknowledging the controversy surrounding the 'coming out' process. As a newly out teen myself, this is a must-read for all baby gays

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Imposter Syndrome and Other Confessions: by Patricia Park

Are you looking for a book that combines the socialites of New York City prep schools, with a Spanish neighborhood in Queens, with an Asian protagonist? Well then, I present Imposter Syndrome. Immigration, first generation Americans, privilege, depression, loss of a parent, this book has it all.

In an enthralling storyline, the author, Patricia Park, writes about teenager Alejandra Kim, a Korean-Latina who recently lost her father. Alejandra, while dealing with the heartache of her dad, also navigates going to a school where she feels as though she doesn't belong. This book is both vulnerably raw, hilarious, and a relatable coming-of-age story.

Image by Zsolt Tóth from Pixabay

On the Come Up: by Angie Thomas

While many are familiar with Thomas' bestseller The Hate You Give, her 2019 novel On the Come Up is another groundbreaking piece rooted in themes of racism, identity, and loyalty. The novel follows a sixteen-year-old's aspiring dreams to become the best rapper in the world. The protagonist, Bri, yearns to find her identity through music but is often left being told she is too "aggressive".

While different then THUG, this nonetheless incorporates social justice, and the lack thereof, into a thrilling work of fiction. This book is also a great one if you are not in the mood to sit down to read and would rather just put some headphones in. This audiobook does justice to the rap lyrics and rap battles, which just makes the experience even more engaging. (Her song lyrics are still stuck in my head!)

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Rules for Being a Girl: by Candace Bushnell, Katie Cotungo

Imagine you are a girl, a student. Your teacher tries to kiss you. You don't want him to.

You tell the adults around you. No one believes you. You must carry on. This is the sad but all too true reality for many women, but also for the Bushnell and Cotungo's protagonist Marin, who, when her English teacher Mr. Beckket makes a move on her, is left with a decision. She could stay quiet or speak her truth. She chose the latter. This book addresses the blatantly obvious sexism we encounter in our everyday lives while simultaneously captivating the reader's attention. It is a book that is guaranteed to make you mad. The best kind of mad - the kind that makes you want to act.

Photo by Michelle Ding on Unsplash

Information is a commodity; there is strength in education. In times when it may feel as though minorities lack support and the world lacks empathy, it is reassuring to know that there will always be books. Books have the irreplaceable ability to teach while evoking a wide range of powerful emotions.

The books I list above will all do exactly that. I encourage you to pick one up, learn, be curious, but above all, enjoy.