For as long as I can remember, I’ve always loved reading.
Even as a child, I would often read novels aimed at adults, preferring them to those written for my own age group. But looking through my bookshelves, I came across a few of the young adult books I enjoyed so much growing up that I’ve held onto them.
I’ve read most of these books more times than I can count.
Help Wanted, by Richie Tankersley Cusick (Point Horror)
I was always a bit addicted to Point Horror novels, and Richie Tankersley Cusick was one of the best authors from that genre. I’ve still got about half a dozen of her books, including The Lifeguard and Trick or Treat.
But Help Wanted is my favourite. It follows teenager Robin as she gets a job after school cataloguing the library of the new wealthy family in town, the Swansons. But the family have a secret that could prove fatal…
Horror in London trilogy, by Francine Pascal (Sweet Valley High)
Sweet Valley High was another series that I read endlessly at primary school. This trilogy is set in London, where the twins encounter a werewolf on a summer exchange trip. Cheesy, but fun!
Dragonsbane, by Patricia C. Wrede (Point Fantasy)
I’d forgotten all about this one! It’s a cute update on the traditional fairy tale with a runaway princess looking for adventure who ends up living with a dragon.
The Shadow Guests, by Joan Aiken
From the author of The Wolves of Willoughby Chase, this story is about a boy sent away to a new school who spends the weekends at his cousin’s ancient mill house. He begins to see shadowy figures and learns about a family curse.
Black Maria, by Diana Wynne Jones
When Mig comes to stay with her Aunt Maria in a small seaside town, she discovers that something sinister is affecting the people there. When her brother is turned into a wolf, she is left alone to battle evil supernatural forces.
A Horse by Any Other Name/The Dark Horse, by Jenny Hughes
Growing up, I had my own horse, so I read a lot of stories about people who were also keen on riding. These two books were perfect teen girl fodder, full of adventure, romance and horse riding!
Cat Among the Pigeons, by Agatha Christie
Whilst not strictly aimed at children, I read a lot of Agatha Christie’s thrillers when I was younger. This was one of my favourites. It’s a pacy little mystery set in an all-girls boarding school, where Hercule Poirot investigates political revolution, intrigue and treasure.
Snowfall, by K.M. Peyton
This one is an epic tale of a teenage girl escaping the confines of her village life in Victorian England. She ends up travelling to the Alps with a group of university friends and experiencing love for the first time, along with a heavy dose of adventure.
So, it’s been an interesting trip along memory lane. I may even have to reread a few of these, hoping that they’re just as entertaining as I remember!
Do you have any favourite childhood books that you still read today?
Rachael says
Swallows and Amazons, Nancy Drew and Point Horror are the biggies that I remember growing up although i’ve never gone back to reread them as an adult.
Amy Lord says
Can’t beat a good Point Horror 😉
Emma says
Point Horror was the best. I’m starting building up a little collection again.
Kristin - My Life as a Teacup says
Ah! So many interesting sounding books that I’ve not heard of!
Amy Lord says
All worth a read, if you enjoy a bit of nostalgia!