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Young World
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Expected 5 May 26Win a free print copy of this book!
6 days and 21:59:56
5 copies available
U.S. only
Imagine if you became President of the USA aged 17? Discover the heart-stopping truth in the debut YA novel from multi-million copy bestselling author of School for Good and Evil.
After a video goes viral, seventeen-year-old Benton Young finds himself elected President of the USA. But politics is a dangerous game and when things are run by teenagers, you'd better watch your back. Now Benton is not only fighting to save the world, he's fighting to save himself . . .
After a video goes viral, seventeen-year-old Benton Young finds himself elected President of the USA. But politics is a dangerous game and when things are run by teenagers, you'd better watch your back. Now Benton is not only fighting to save the world, he's fighting to save himself . . .
480 pages, Library Binding
Expected publication March 1, 2026
10892 people want to read
About the author
Soman Chainani
37 books7,752 followersSoman Chainani’s debut series, THE SCHOOL FOR GOOD & EVIL, has sold over 4.5 million copies, been translated into 35 languages across six continents, and has been adapted into a major motion picture from Netflix that debuted at #1 in over 80 countries.
His book of retold fairytales, BEASTS & BEAUTY, also debuted on the New York Times Bestseller List and is slated to be a limited television series from Sony 3000.
EverNever World, his decade-long franchise of fairy tales and fantasy, continues to expand. Together, these books have been on the New York Times Bestseller List for 50 weeks.
In 2026, Soman unveils a brand new universe with YOUNG WORLD, a global political thriller.
In his career, Soman has visited more than 800 schools around the world, where he continues to share his secret with students of all ages: that reading is the path to a better life.
His book of retold fairytales, BEASTS & BEAUTY, also debuted on the New York Times Bestseller List and is slated to be a limited television series from Sony 3000.
EverNever World, his decade-long franchise of fairy tales and fantasy, continues to expand. Together, these books have been on the New York Times Bestseller List for 50 weeks.
In 2026, Soman unveils a brand new universe with YOUNG WORLD, a global political thriller.
In his career, Soman has visited more than 800 schools around the world, where he continues to share his secret with students of all ages: that reading is the path to a better life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
2026
November 21, 2025ANHPI TBR
Pride TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Books for Young Readers
Pride TBR
📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Books for Young Readers
January 22, 2026
Picked this up on a whim while looking for something immersive that will make me just sit and READ, and... this did the job.
At least in the beginning. I binged a decent portion in a sitting, until things started to slow down a bit. Later it did pick back up, though.
This was very different from the books I normally read, and maybe that's why it HIT. I think this is considered a YA Thriller— I don't read thrillers often, but I liked this one! It just felt like an exciting mystery, with some crazy WTF is happening right now parts (like the 🐻❄ iykwim). Is this what thrillers are like? I always thought they were more hardcore and unsettling, which is why I stayed away, but maybe that's the adult thrillers.
Why did it take me so long to realize it was an upside down building on the cover and not a creepy, dripping vacuum cleaner?
A tad too many suggestive jokes/inappropriate humor in this book.
Overall, an interesting story! It's a LOT 😂 And I enjoyed it for the most part. It was fun to read something so different. Definitely well written and well done. Some parts were really entertaining and bingeable. Some parts/ideas I wasn't a fan of. Also, I did guess who was on the BRICS side~
Cool to see something totally different from the author of one of my favorite childhood series 🏰📖✨️
*I received an ARC of this book, thank you to the author and publisher!*
At least in the beginning. I binged a decent portion in a sitting, until things started to slow down a bit. Later it did pick back up, though.
This was very different from the books I normally read, and maybe that's why it HIT. I think this is considered a YA Thriller— I don't read thrillers often, but I liked this one! It just felt like an exciting mystery, with some crazy WTF is happening right now parts (like the 🐻❄ iykwim). Is this what thrillers are like? I always thought they were more hardcore and unsettling, which is why I stayed away, but maybe that's the adult thrillers.
Why did it take me so long to realize it was an upside down building on the cover and not a creepy, dripping vacuum cleaner?
A tad too many suggestive jokes/inappropriate humor in this book.
Overall, an interesting story! It's a LOT 😂 And I enjoyed it for the most part. It was fun to read something so different. Definitely well written and well done. Some parts were really entertaining and bingeable. Some parts/ideas I wasn't a fan of. Also, I did guess who was on the BRICS side~
Cool to see something totally different from the author of one of my favorite childhood series 🏰📖✨️
*I received an ARC of this book, thank you to the author and publisher!*
Want to read
December 18, 2025i just got the ARC!! i grew up on soman’s writing, i’m so so freaking excited
Want to read
February 9, 2026"A renegade thriller about a teenager elected President of the United States, sparking a global revolution of young leaders—until one of them is murdered and he’s the prime suspect."
i can't decide if this sounds ridculous or fantasic
i can't decide if this sounds ridculous or fantasic
Want to read
January 13, 2026I can't wait for this!
Read
December 15, 2025girl that was crazy
Read
November 29, 2025This book is INSANEEEEEE you guys aren't ready
December 8, 2025
This book is unlike anything I’ve ever read! High school student Benton Young makes a very public declaration in order to get a girl’s attention and it thrusts him onto the presidential ballot. In a surprising turn that no one saw coming, he wins and America is turned on its head. The win sparks a revolution around the world with more teens and young adults gaining positions of power in their countries. All want to gain control of an arctic island known as Dragontail where an unknown treasure trove of natural resources has yet to be tapped. This is a YA political thriller. Unlikely? Yes, but also captivating! The artwork sprinkled throughout the book adds to the intrigue. It’s incredibly well done. High school teachers and librarians—hand this one to your reluctant boys. Thank you Random House for the opportunity to read this advance copy!
Want to read
December 29, 2025Review to come on April 21st
September 17, 2025
Ahhhh super excited to dive into a new Soman Chainani world!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
*Disclaimer I have received a free copy of this book and it will not affect my thoughts or feelings towards it.*
As a massive fan of everything Soman Chainani I was shocked to hear that he was entering to the YA genre and diving deep into politics which was a strong genre shift from his MG fantasy books. I was nervous about how the story would land and how he would tackle the concept of the young leading the world and flipping it on his head. Unfortunately after reading the novel I come away conflicted on how to feel overall. At some moments of the novel it feels like a great mystery and all the pieces are coming into place and then we hit another turn, then another turn...and then another turn leading this mystery to go from interesting to just plot convenience.
I would say my two biggest problem with the novel is the dialogue and structure of the plot. The dialogue in this book is all over the board as it tackles the idea of using Gen Z terms and phrases to make it seem modern and cool with the trends, which sometimes lands swimmily and other times sound like robotic teenagers saying buzz words or dirty jokes because they can for no particular reason. I feel like this novel was a way for Soman to let at all types of jokes he has wanted to include in the past but couldn't due to the age range out and so they sometimes land and other times feel forced in there. The other problem is the structure of the novel because part one is far too long and takes way too much time to establish problems and part 3 feels like a rushed conclusion with the main problem continues to escalate larger and larger and then conveniently resolved.
Part 3 felt very out of character compared to parts 1 and 2 because those parts did a great job of grounding us in this reality and part 3 comes along and everything happens to cause dramatic sequences or crazy turns for no particular reason. However when the book is strong it shines beautifully, and part 2 is the perfect example of this. Part 2 traps you into this political mystery where we the reader feel trapped in this impossible mission where everyone's loyalty is tested and the humor felt natural and the stakes felt high and every twist and turn felt telling. Part 2 felt like a great redemption for a snail-paced part 1 and create the best parts of the book for me. However part 3 came in and destroyed most of the best parts from part 2.
Overall this novel was not my cup of tea due to amount of tone shifts and sometimes unbearable dialogue however, I still applause Soman for taking the creative risk to try something new and step out of his comfort zone and for the moments where the story lands it exceeds but unfortunately when it falls short is does painfully.
In conclusion a 3/5 stars and would still recommend to anyone in the mood for a wacky political mystery.
As a massive fan of everything Soman Chainani I was shocked to hear that he was entering to the YA genre and diving deep into politics which was a strong genre shift from his MG fantasy books. I was nervous about how the story would land and how he would tackle the concept of the young leading the world and flipping it on his head. Unfortunately after reading the novel I come away conflicted on how to feel overall. At some moments of the novel it feels like a great mystery and all the pieces are coming into place and then we hit another turn, then another turn...and then another turn leading this mystery to go from interesting to just plot convenience.
I would say my two biggest problem with the novel is the dialogue and structure of the plot. The dialogue in this book is all over the board as it tackles the idea of using Gen Z terms and phrases to make it seem modern and cool with the trends, which sometimes lands swimmily and other times sound like robotic teenagers saying buzz words or dirty jokes because they can for no particular reason. I feel like this novel was a way for Soman to let at all types of jokes he has wanted to include in the past but couldn't due to the age range out and so they sometimes land and other times feel forced in there. The other problem is the structure of the novel because part one is far too long and takes way too much time to establish problems and part 3 feels like a rushed conclusion with the main problem continues to escalate larger and larger and then conveniently resolved.
Part 3 felt very out of character compared to parts 1 and 2 because those parts did a great job of grounding us in this reality and part 3 comes along and everything happens to cause dramatic sequences or crazy turns for no particular reason. However when the book is strong it shines beautifully, and part 2 is the perfect example of this. Part 2 traps you into this political mystery where we the reader feel trapped in this impossible mission where everyone's loyalty is tested and the humor felt natural and the stakes felt high and every twist and turn felt telling. Part 2 felt like a great redemption for a snail-paced part 1 and create the best parts of the book for me. However part 3 came in and destroyed most of the best parts from part 2.
Overall this novel was not my cup of tea due to amount of tone shifts and sometimes unbearable dialogue however, I still applause Soman for taking the creative risk to try something new and step out of his comfort zone and for the moments where the story lands it exceeds but unfortunately when it falls short is does painfully.
In conclusion a 3/5 stars and would still recommend to anyone in the mood for a wacky political mystery.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Young World is one of those YA books that sounds wildly implausible on paper and then somehow becomes impossible to put down once you’re in it. Benton Young is just a high school kid trying to impress a girl with a big, public gesture, and that single moment snowballs into the most unexpected outcome: he ends up on the presidential ballot, wins, and suddenly the entire world is reeling.
From there, the story shifts into a fast paced political thriller with a dystopian edge. Chainani clearly knows how to keep momentum high, and the escalation feels intentional even when it’s ridiculous in the best way. The global ripple effect is especially fun, with teens and young adults gaining power across different countries and pushing competing agendas. The tension eventually narrows toward Dragontail, an Arctic island rumored to hold massive untapped resources, and that conflict gives the book a sharp, modern urgency.
One of my favorite touches is the artwork scattered throughout. It is not just decorative. It adds texture, delivers information in unexpected ways, and helps the world feel bigger than Benton’s viewpoint. It’s a genuinely cool storytelling tool that I wish more books would use.
This is a departure from Chainani’s more fairytale flavored work, but it mostly lands. The cast is strong, the narrator is compelling, and the tone feels like a YA political satire that occasionally brushes up against the same anxious energy as Don’t Look Up.
Why not a full five stars? A few turns rely on you fully buying the premise and going along for the ride, and if you stop to nitpick realism, you will have a bad time. But if you want a clever, addictive, slightly unhinged dystopian political thriller, this delivers.
Also, teachers and librarians: this feels like a great “hand it to a reluctant reader” pick, especially for teens who want something high concept, current, and fast.
From there, the story shifts into a fast paced political thriller with a dystopian edge. Chainani clearly knows how to keep momentum high, and the escalation feels intentional even when it’s ridiculous in the best way. The global ripple effect is especially fun, with teens and young adults gaining power across different countries and pushing competing agendas. The tension eventually narrows toward Dragontail, an Arctic island rumored to hold massive untapped resources, and that conflict gives the book a sharp, modern urgency.
One of my favorite touches is the artwork scattered throughout. It is not just decorative. It adds texture, delivers information in unexpected ways, and helps the world feel bigger than Benton’s viewpoint. It’s a genuinely cool storytelling tool that I wish more books would use.
This is a departure from Chainani’s more fairytale flavored work, but it mostly lands. The cast is strong, the narrator is compelling, and the tone feels like a YA political satire that occasionally brushes up against the same anxious energy as Don’t Look Up.
Why not a full five stars? A few turns rely on you fully buying the premise and going along for the ride, and if you stop to nitpick realism, you will have a bad time. But if you want a clever, addictive, slightly unhinged dystopian political thriller, this delivers.
Also, teachers and librarians: this feels like a great “hand it to a reluctant reader” pick, especially for teens who want something high concept, current, and fast.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children’s for the digital copy of this book; I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Content warnings provided by reviewers on Storygraph:
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship
Minor: Bullying, Cursing, Drug use
The way things are going in the United States these days, stepping into a YA thriller about a teenage president sparking a worldwide youth uprising really resonates. The story focuses on power, betrayal, and the consequences of youthful idealism. The systemic and generational questions posed with Young World are some of the things I’ve been exploring in my recent reads.
With that said, I did have some issues with the book. I suppose to appeal to the actual teens that this book is targeted to, the book is sort of a high-octane spectacle, as opposed to a more nuanced and measured read. Young World is definitely an adrenaline-filled diversion that focuses a lot on politics and empowering youth. That’s a long way of saying that some parts were not my jam, but I can definitely see the appeal to the teen audience.
I do have to say the premise of the book is pretty good, but it never explains the basic fact that the Constitution says you have to be at least 35 years old to be President. And this book has some great artwork sprinkled between chapters, so it’s a blend of graphic novel/fiction book. I think this book would definitely appeal to teens, but especially the boys.
Unique and interesting, I’d give this book ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Content warnings provided by reviewers on Storygraph:
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship
Minor: Bullying, Cursing, Drug use
The way things are going in the United States these days, stepping into a YA thriller about a teenage president sparking a worldwide youth uprising really resonates. The story focuses on power, betrayal, and the consequences of youthful idealism. The systemic and generational questions posed with Young World are some of the things I’ve been exploring in my recent reads.
With that said, I did have some issues with the book. I suppose to appeal to the actual teens that this book is targeted to, the book is sort of a high-octane spectacle, as opposed to a more nuanced and measured read. Young World is definitely an adrenaline-filled diversion that focuses a lot on politics and empowering youth. That’s a long way of saying that some parts were not my jam, but I can definitely see the appeal to the teen audience.
I do have to say the premise of the book is pretty good, but it never explains the basic fact that the Constitution says you have to be at least 35 years old to be President. And this book has some great artwork sprinkled between chapters, so it’s a blend of graphic novel/fiction book. I think this book would definitely appeal to teens, but especially the boys.
Unique and interesting, I’d give this book ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children's Books for sending me this eARC. I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, the ending was enjoyable. It contained an exciting climax and a peaceful ending, although I was not thrilled about a certain character death. It's great that Benton finally found his groove as young president of the U.S. since he was greatly struggling throughout the story.
On the other hand, "Young World" was really brought down by the sheer volume of crude jokes and weird romance. Obviously, Benton is a teenage boy and the book goes to show that despite landing himself in The White House, he's still, understandably, an immature teen. Yet, the story would have been much better if I didn't have to keep reading about 'the girl' and how his world revolves around her, along with the frequent indecent references. This novel has a unique concept, which makes it stand out amongst other YA books, so it's a shame that this was tarnishing my experience.
My other quip would be that based on the blurb, I thought this would be a murder mystery with a side of politics. Instead, it was a lot of politics/real world matters with a murder mystery subplot. That wasn't an issue for me, but it may confuse some people who are looking for the former rather than the latter.
On the other hand, "Young World" was really brought down by the sheer volume of crude jokes and weird romance. Obviously, Benton is a teenage boy and the book goes to show that despite landing himself in The White House, he's still, understandably, an immature teen. Yet, the story would have been much better if I didn't have to keep reading about 'the girl' and how his world revolves around her, along with the frequent indecent references. This novel has a unique concept, which makes it stand out amongst other YA books, so it's a shame that this was tarnishing my experience.
My other quip would be that based on the blurb, I thought this would be a murder mystery with a side of politics. Instead, it was a lot of politics/real world matters with a murder mystery subplot. That wasn't an issue for me, but it may confuse some people who are looking for the former rather than the latter.
December 31, 2025
4.5 Stars
This book was TOO MUCH (usually in the best, and very teen, way). I have been listening to Plot Twist - Soman Chianani's podcast with Victoria Aveyard - for the past few months, which spiked my interest in this book. I knew from listening that this book would get people talking and it delivered with a wild ride. Although it took me a little while to get into part one, I thought the format and style really worked for this story. Hearing from Benton diary-style was effective, and as the story progressed this ratcheted up the tension (as did the pace increasing through the parts 3 and 4). I would recommend reading a physical copy if you are interested in this book! I was thrilled to get an ARC from NetGalley and I'm so grateful I got the chance to read it. However, I think with all of the art and extras, I would have had a more enjoyable reading experience with a physical book. There was one storyline/relationship that I found pretty - for lack of a better word - icky. I'm glad it was resolved, but I could have done with out it all together. Overall this was a fun ride, a timely story, and full of young hope.
This book was TOO MUCH (usually in the best, and very teen, way). I have been listening to Plot Twist - Soman Chianani's podcast with Victoria Aveyard - for the past few months, which spiked my interest in this book. I knew from listening that this book would get people talking and it delivered with a wild ride. Although it took me a little while to get into part one, I thought the format and style really worked for this story. Hearing from Benton diary-style was effective, and as the story progressed this ratcheted up the tension (as did the pace increasing through the parts 3 and 4). I would recommend reading a physical copy if you are interested in this book! I was thrilled to get an ARC from NetGalley and I'm so grateful I got the chance to read it. However, I think with all of the art and extras, I would have had a more enjoyable reading experience with a physical book. There was one storyline/relationship that I found pretty - for lack of a better word - icky. I'm glad it was resolved, but I could have done with out it all together. Overall this was a fun ride, a timely story, and full of young hope.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Soman Chainani has always written about good versus evil, but this time he has brought his creative brilliance out of the fantasy world and into the contemporary one - and I am here for it. The way in which he laid this fast-paced thriller out was mind-blowing. The propaganda, clippings, transcripts, and other artifacts that are placed between the chapters - each with hints and details of what is to come - were so fun to go through and analyze. The characters are relatable - even in some crazy situations - and their voices and convictions are something that I wish more of us had in today's world.
Benton Young & his besties - Jax & Freddy - are typical teenage boys who can entertain you and frustrate you all at the same time. And yet, each of them has these redeeming qualities that you can't help but root for them in their quest to save the world.
This is definitely a title that I will be purchasing for my library. I think high school students will be able to relate the characters and will enjoy the fast pace of the book - even with it being 472 pages.
Benton Young & his besties - Jax & Freddy - are typical teenage boys who can entertain you and frustrate you all at the same time. And yet, each of them has these redeeming qualities that you can't help but root for them in their quest to save the world.
This is definitely a title that I will be purchasing for my library. I think high school students will be able to relate the characters and will enjoy the fast pace of the book - even with it being 472 pages.
November 18, 2025
This book was a rollercoaster from start to finish! Initially, I was very nervous about how I would feel about Chainani’s departure from fairytale-esque fantasy to a more dystopian narrative but I believe he pulled it off extremely well, incorporating a great cast of characters and a compelling narrator into the plot. The use of art within this book is also something of note, which added an interesting and unconventional way to incorporate details into the story that went beyond the main character’s perspective. Overall, this book surpassed what I expected and is perfect for fans of young adult dystopian and even the movie Don’t Look Up.
January 3, 2026
YA Action
Start to finish this action packed thriller is one unexpected turn after another!
Inspired by his AP Gov. teacher, Benton makes a social media post that starts a teen movement for change across the world and suddenly the youth are leading the world. As president, Benton meets with other leaders but for all the change, there is still greed and conspiracy. It’s the start of a wild ride…attempted murder, international espionage, kidnapping…that will keep you guessing as to what’s next and by who!
Could not put this down. Excellent character development and an original story that just wouldn’t stop!
Start to finish this action packed thriller is one unexpected turn after another!
Inspired by his AP Gov. teacher, Benton makes a social media post that starts a teen movement for change across the world and suddenly the youth are leading the world. As president, Benton meets with other leaders but for all the change, there is still greed and conspiracy. It’s the start of a wild ride…attempted murder, international espionage, kidnapping…that will keep you guessing as to what’s next and by who!
Could not put this down. Excellent character development and an original story that just wouldn’t stop!
February 11, 2026
TLDR: literally did not finishing reading because this was so awful
Really tried to push through this but it was not worth it. I was immediately not loving the premise being that a 17-year old was elected because he wanted attention from a girl he like who rejected him (big inc*l vibes) and it only went downhill. I couldn’t tell if the author had never been or spoken to a teenager or is really a teenager cosplaying as an adult writing a teenager. The dialogue was so cringey. The two best friends are absolute caricatures. One is gay and the other plays video games. That’s it. Neither one can say more than one sentence without referencing their assigned trait. What really made me stop reading was the romanticization of p*dophilia. Hard no from me and I don’t know how something like this gets published.
Really tried to push through this but it was not worth it. I was immediately not loving the premise being that a 17-year old was elected because he wanted attention from a girl he like who rejected him (big inc*l vibes) and it only went downhill. I couldn’t tell if the author had never been or spoken to a teenager or is really a teenager cosplaying as an adult writing a teenager. The dialogue was so cringey. The two best friends are absolute caricatures. One is gay and the other plays video games. That’s it. Neither one can say more than one sentence without referencing their assigned trait. What really made me stop reading was the romanticization of p*dophilia. Hard no from me and I don’t know how something like this gets published.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A teenager’s viral joke about sabotaging a presidential election spirals into chaos, resulting in a youth led government. When a teen leader is murdered at an international summit, the accidental president becomes the prime suspect.
The novel blends satire, thriller elements, and coming of age themes to question power and accountability. It is skeptical of both adult leadership and youthful idealism, showing how quickly new systems repeat old patterns. The murder mystery sharpens the book’s central question of whether generational change can truly break the cycle.
The novel blends satire, thriller elements, and coming of age themes to question power and accountability. It is skeptical of both adult leadership and youthful idealism, showing how quickly new systems repeat old patterns. The murder mystery sharpens the book’s central question of whether generational change can truly break the cycle.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Phenomenal writing, and storyline, the art scattered through is surprising and really puts you in the world. So amazing for teenagers who feel politically helpless, or adults like my dad who just want a GREAT read.
October 27, 2025
Received an ARC at a librarian conference and dove right in. What a ride! My high school students are going to love this one.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
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December 19, 2025
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Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Yet
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
December 24, 2025you cannot be serious. beyond everything else... FIVE HARRY POTTER REFERENCES? IN THE YEAR OF OUR LORD (i'm atheist) 2026????
Review of advance copy
A fast-paced, high-stakes thriller that proves teens can change the world. Packed with mystery, politics, and nonstop twists.
Review of advance copy received from Storygraph
One of my favourite
Want to read
February 13, 2026Expected publication May 5
August 7, 2025
I already know it's gonna be good.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews