Everyone is wondering why Gen Z is so politically active and outspoken, but the answer is clear. We didn’t just grow up reading about dystopias, we were learning how to fight them. Books like “The Hunger Games” and “Divergent” were our childhood, so it’s really not too surprising that we don’t sit back in times of political injustice. These stories offered more than just dramatic plots and relatable characters, they taught us about systems of power, resistance and justice – long before we could even vote.
These fictional stories were always grounded in reality, whether that be racism, class inequality or an environmental destruction. They never ran from the hard questions, instead they invited young people into a conversation in an age appropriate way. We were drawn into a world where we felt the injustice these characters were facing. And the protagonist always, always fought back. They challenged authority, organized communities and simply existed unapologetically in their authentic selves. These were seeds planted young that welcomed us to the world of political consciousness.
And it didn’t just stop once the book was closed. The influence is real. Some Gen Z activists even cite YA books as a catalyst for awareness and action. They weren’t just stories, but a framework to understand the world. Social media has also amplified these messages, with people turning the books into a way to hold political discussion. Gen Z has taken the lessons of this fiction into the real world.
You may dismiss these books as just teen drama and fantasy, but for us they’re formative tales. They’re a way for us to not just reflect on issues, but to see how we can make a difference. Civic education often falls short, and these books fill in the gaps as a blueprint for resistance, empathy and, above all, hope. They taught us that change is possible – but only if you’re brave enough to try.
