Young Adult Tropes

Young Adult tropes are packed with heart, intensity, and the unforgettable magic of becoming who you are.

From first loves to secret powers, chosen destinies to rebellious hearts, YA stories use these familiar patterns to explore the big questions of growing up—who we are, who we love, and what we’re willing to fight for. These tropes speak to readers of all ages because the journey of self-discovery, found family, and emotional risk is universal.

In this part of the Hamlet, you’ll find the tropes that make YA stories unputdownable. Click through to discover the ones that resonate with your story-loving soul—and build a list of your favorites to guide your next great read.

🧭 Coming of Age & Self-Discovery

#ComingOfAge – Growing up, making mistakes, and figuring out who you are.
#FirstLove – Sweet, awkward, intense, unforgettable.
#IdentityCrisis – Who am I, really—and who am I becoming?
#TheNewKid – Starting over in a new place, school, or world.
#MisfitHero – They don’t fit in—until they realize that’s their power.
#BigSecret – One truth could change everything.

🪄 Magical Worlds & Hidden Powers

#SecretSociety – A hidden group with dangerous knowledge or purpose.
#MagicalSchool – Learning spells, breaking rules, and saving the world before finals.
#HiddenHeritage – A family secret unlocks power or destiny.
#ReluctantChosenOne – Thrust into greatness with no interest in it—at first.
#PowerAwakening – A gift (or curse) that emerges at the worst time.
#ParallelWorlds – One foot in each world, caught between two lives.

💔 Relationships & Social Dynamics

#LoveTriangle – Torn between two hearts and two futures.
#BestFriendCrush – When feelings sneak up on a lifelong friendship.
#EnemiesToLovers – Sharp tongues turn into stolen glances.
#FoundFamily – The people you choose when your own lets you down.
#PopularKidFallsForOutsider – Breaking cliques and expectations.
#FakeDating – It’s all pretend… until it’s not.

🌆 High Stakes in Teen Lives

#DystopianTeenRebel – One teen stands up against a broken world.
#ChosenToCompete – A dangerous contest no one wants—but someone must win.
#TragicBackstory – Pain from the past shapes the path forward.
#RunawayOrOutcast – Left behind, cast out, or on the run.
#SchoolDrama – Cliques, rumors, betrayal, and unexpected allies.
#SavingTheWorldAfterClass – Homework, crushes, and interdimensional doom.