Demon/monster hunter shows and movies have surged in popularity recently, focusing on high-stakes stories where heroes battle supernatural threats. If films like K-Pop Demon Hunters or anime shows like Demon Slayer are your jam, you’re not alone. But what are you supposed to read after those end credits roll?

Monster hunting is a nearly universal theme, hailing from various cultures around the globe. It’s depicted in various forms throughout the history of mankind, exploring primal fears and symbolizing the psychological confrontation of the shadow self, the battle against the unknown, and the emergence of the hero, who represents humanity’s triumph and resiliency over threats like order vs. chaos, morality and goodness vs. evil, and civilization vs. wild nature and the untamed.

Fierce battles, supernatural chills, high-stakes danger, and flashy monster-slaying are topics long explored by YA fantasy authors. Demon and monster hunting YA books blend fantasy with mythology, incorporating supernatural lore, ancient prophecies, intense rivalries, and epic battles against all consuming darkness. They also often incorporate characters we want to cheer on, who refuse to give up in the face of overwhelming odds, ride or die friendships and relationships that depict unwavering loyalty, themes of finding one’s inner strength, ethical/moral dilemmas, and the courage to either accept or defy destiny.

Everyone has their own demons to fight, and these stories remind us how to face them head on. So whether you’re a fan of this genre already or are intrigued to try it out, which monster-hunting adventure will you read next?