It’s Father’s Day and we wanted to recognize the fathers that stand out in YA books and what makes them awesome.
To be quite honest, many fathers in YA books are depicted as non-existent or not worthy of attention. Many even end up being the antagonist of the book. But we know there are some pretty cool dads that do exist in YA, and we’ve listed the top 9 of our favorite fathers or father figures. Check it out!
Click on the images to order a copy of the book(s) on Amazon!
Arthur Weasley
The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling
Personable, a little aloof, fiercely loyal, and always standing up for others– Who wouldn’t want a dad like Arthur Weasley? Ron’s family may be poor, but they have heart in spades, half of which comes from its beloved patriarch. He makes everyone feel comfortable while simultaneously fighting prejudice and making the wizarding world a better place.
Hans Hubermann
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Liesel’s papa, Hans, is not her biological father. But he loves her deeply and completely, teaching her skills and life lessons, particularly passing on his love for books. As World War II rolls around, he’s forced to to make difficult decisions, but does his best to protect his family while refusing to ignore the problems in the outside world.
Sam Quintana
Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz
Although Aristotle’s father did love Ari, it took awhile to get him to show it as he had personal issues to get through, including PTSD from his time in the Vietnam War. However, when it came to Dante’s dad, Sam Quintana, was much more open to showing his enthusiasm and love for his son. His generosity and affection and humor just make him one of those awesome dads you don’t mind hanging out with.
Malcolm Goode
I Am Number Four series by Pittacus Lore
Despite Malcolm Goode being what one would consider a space-kook, being in a universe in which aliens exists, and exist on Earth. And even though he was determined to help the Loric, his relationship with his son still took precedence. He did what he felt was right to protect Sam, but Sam also did what he could to help save his dad from death. Together, being only human, they helped save Four and the rest of the Guarde.
Charlie Swan
The Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer
Despite what you thought of the main protagonists, one thing that many fans of the books liked was Bella’s father, Charlie Swan. He didn’t always know what to do when it came to being a father to Bella, but he loved his girl. He protected her as much as he could, even while allowing Bella to come into her own, even if he couldn’t know everything about her.
Andy and Nathan Nolan
Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins
Lola doesn’t always have the best relationship with her strict, watchful dads, but they’re such a pivotal part of her journey. They let Lola be herself and shine, but they don’t let her get away with reckless behavior. They encourage a girl who’s trying to grow up too fast to simply be a teenager. Perhaps most importantly, they sense Lola’s connection with Cricket is special and work to foster that. Plus pies!
Mr. Lancaster
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
Hazel’s dad may be too emotional for some people, but his love for his daughter always shines through, especially in what he says. He reminds her of what it means to love someone, even if it could be short-lived. For a father to break through to his daughter like that, it’s just momentous.
Ben Moore and Cillian Boyd
Chaos Walking series by Patrick Ness
The interesting thing about this is that neither Ben nor Cillian is the biological father of Todd, the main protagonist. Even more interesting is there’s nothing that states Ben and Cillian had a romantic relationship. Sure, they both agreed to raise Todd after Todd’s parents died, but as far as intimacy goes, it was all about raising and protecting Todd. Although Todd probably favored Ben more as a father figure, it was Cillian who gave the ultimate sacrifice to save Todd, and both loved him like a son.
Shalom Singer
The Selection series by Kiera Cass
Shalom Singer wasn’t a major character in the books, but he was still an important part of America’s life. The whole family was in the middle range of a number-coded society, which wasn’t poor, but it labeled them all as not being able to rise above their station. That is, until America was in The Selection. Being as he was, he was supportive of her decisions and if America decided not to join, he would’ve been fully supportive of that, too. He was part of the Northern rebellion if only to give his family a better life.