Here, you will find all the Ellen Hopkins books in order with their summaries.
Ellen Hopkins is a highly acclaimed American author known best for her young adult novels which are written in verse form.
Hopkins’ unique writing style, characterized by its free verse poetry format, allows her to delve deep into the minds and emotions of her characters, creating raw and authentic narratives.
Her novels often tackle tough and taboo subjects, including addiction, mental illness, sexual abuse, and self-harm, resonating with readers who appreciate her unflinching portrayal of these issues.
Ellen Hopkins has received numerous accolades for her work, including several awards and nominations.
Her novels have been praised for their thought-provoking storytelling, emotional depth, and their ability to connect with readers on a profound level.
With her distinctive voice and unflinching exploration of challenging subjects, Ellen Hopkins has established herself as a prominent and influential author in the realm of young adult literature.
Hopkin’s books are regularly included in the American Library Association’s lists of the most frequently banned and challenged books in the United States.
In 2022, several of her books, including Burned, Glass, Tricks, and Crank were listed among the 52 books banned by the Alpine School District because they were considered to contain pornographic material according to the new laws.
The banned books featured LGBTQ+ characters and or themes.
Ellen Hopkins Books in Order
Ellen Hopkin Book Themes
Ellen Hopkin’s books cover a wide range of themes, often addressing challenging and thought-provoking subjects. Some of the themes covered in her books are:
1) Addiction: Hopkins’ books are known for tackling and exploring the devastating effects of addiction on individuals and their families.
2) Mental Health: Hopkins’ books portray several characters who struggle with depression, anxiety, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. She also emphasizes the importance of seeking help and struggling.
3) Family Dynamics: Hopkins’ novels explore the effects of abuse, neglect, and the long-lasting impact of trauma within families.
4) Identity and self-discovery: Several of Ellen Hopkin’s characters grapple with societal expectations, personal desires, and the journey of embracing their true selves.
Ellen Hopkins Crank Trilogy in Order
This series is also referred also as Kristina Georgia Snow series.
1) Crank (2004)
Crank is Ellen Hopkin’s debut novel. It introduces the destructive world of methamphetamine addiction to its young readers through the eyes of Kristina, a young teenage girl. The book explores the devastating impact of drug abuse on individuals and their families.
2) Glass (2007)
Glass continues Kristina’s story as she battles the demons of addiction. This sequel to Crank delves deeper into the consequences of drug use and portrays the challenging journey of recovery and self-discovery.
3) Fallout (2010)
Fallout is a companion novel to Crank and Glass. It tells the story from the perspective of Kristina’s three children- Hunter, Autumn, and Summer.
The book explores the legacy of addiction and its impact on the next generation, as each sibling grapples with their own demons and choices.
Ellen Hopkins Burned Series in Order
This series is also known as Pattyn Von Stratten book series.
1) Burned (2006)
Burned tells the story of a young woman who is growing up in a strict and abusive religious household.
She embarks on a journey of self-discovery, love, and personal empowerment as she starts questioning the limitations imposed on her by her family and community.
The novel explores themes of faith, identity, and the courage to break free from oppressive circumstances.
2) Smoke (2013)
Smoke is the third instalment in the “Burned” series. It focuses on Pattyn, a young woman who escaped her abusive home life and finds solace in a new town. Patttyn must confront the challenges and consequences of her choices.
Impulse Series in Order
Impulse books are also known as Conner & Cara series.
1) Impulse (2007)
Impulse follows three teenagers, Conner, Vanessa, and Tony. They meet in a psychiatric hospital after separate suicide attempts.
As they form an unlikely bond, they confront their past traumas and strive to find hope and purpose in their lives.
2) Perfect (2011)
In this companion novel to “Impulse,” Hopkins tackles issues of body image, self-worth, and societal pressures through the interconnected stories of four high school students.
The book explores the pursuit of perfection and the damaging consequences of unattainable standards.
Triangles and Tilt Series in Order
1) Triangles (2011)
Triangles by Ellen Hopkins follows three female friends- Holly, Andrea, and Marissa, who are each facing a midlife crisis.
While Holly starts an extramarital affair, Andrea contemplates being in a relationship with Holly’s castaway husband, and Marissa who has a fair share of challenges- a rebellious teenage son coming into his sexuality and a terminally ill daughter.
2) Tilt and Collateral (2012)
Tilt and its companion novel Collateral explore the tumultuous lives of three teenagers—Mikayla, Shane, and Harley—and their experiences with love, heartbreak, and unexpected connections.
These interconnected stories delve into themes of sexuality, identity, and the complexities of relationships.
Tricks Series in Order
1) Tricks (2009)
Tricks follows five teenagers from different parts of the country. The five teenagers are a group of rich, poor, gay, and straight kids. All of these teenagers are searching for freedom, safety, community, family, and love.
2) Traffick (2015)
“Traffick” is a companion novel to “Tricks,” and it follows the lives of the five teenagers introduced in the previous book—Eden, Seth, Whitney, Ginger, and Cody.
The story delves into the aftermath of their involvement in the world of sex trafficking, as they strive to rebuild their lives, heal from their traumas, and find hope amidst their difficult circumstances.
The novel sheds light on the long-lasting impact of exploitation and the resilience of survivors.
Love Lies Beneath Novels
1) Love Lies Beneath (2015)
Love Lies Beneath tells the story of Tara, a woman who was once widowed and twice divorced. She has a past that she prefers to keep hidden.
2) A Sin Such As This (2018)
This novel explores the aftermath of a scandalous affair and its impact on a small town. As the secrets and lies unravel, the characters are forced to confront the consequences of their actions and the complexities of love, forgiveness, and redemption.
Other Novels & Books
1) Orcas: High Seas Supermen (2000)
2) Identical (2008)
Identical tells the story of two identical twins Kaeleigh and Raeanne, the daughters of a district court judge father, and a politician mother running for US Congress.
The book delves into themes of familial dysfunction, secrets, and the effects of trauma on personal identity.
3) Flirtin’ With the Monster: Your Favorite Authors on Ellen Hopkins’ Crank and Glass (2009)
The book includes fan essays and features a contribution from the real-life teenage girl who inspired the meth-addicted character.
Ellen Hopkins fearlessly tackles crucial teen issues like homosexuality and suicide, presenting a stark, authentic portrayal.
With an introduction by Ellen herself, it’s the definitive guide to why Crank and Glass resonate with teens.
Contributors include Susan Hart Lindquist, Lynda Sandoval, Niki Burnham, Terri Clark, Gail Giles, Cinda Chima, Megan Kelley Hall, Micol Ostow, Mary Bryan, and John Tatro.”
4) A New Dawn (2009)
“A New Dawn invites readers to revisit their beloved Twilight series with fresh perspectives. Edited by bestselling author Ellen Hopkins, it delves into familiar debates: Edward or Jacob?
The autonomy of Meyer’s supernatural creatures? Is Edward a romantic or a captivating sociopath?
Comparisons to Native American wolf myths and Shakespearean elements.
Featuring contributions from Megan McCafferty, Cassandra Clare, Rachel Caine, and more, A New Dawn offers insightful commentary for both teens and adults hungry for a new take on their favorite series.”
5) Collateral (2012)
Collateral is a book written in Hopkin’s trademark poetic verse style. It tells the story of Ashley, a young student who grew up reading books and never dreamed of becoming a military wife.
One night she meets Cole, a passionate and romantic soldier with whom she starts a sexually charged love affair for five years.
6) Grim (2014)
Inspired by classic fairy tales, but with a dark and sinister twist, Grim contains short stories from some of the best voices in young adult literature today
7) Rumble (2014)
In “Rumble,” Hopkins tackles the subject of religion and belief through the eyes of Matthew Turner. After the tragic death of his brother, Matthew questions his faith and embarks on a soul-searching journey to find his own truth amidst doubt and grief.
8) The You I’ve Never Known (2017)
This novel tells the story of Ariel, a young girl who has grown up with an emotionally abusive father. When she meets Maya, a girl who challenges her perspective on life and love, Ariel embarks on a journey of self-discovery, unraveling the secrets of her past and forging a new path forward.
9) People Kill People (2018)
In this gritty and timely novel, Hopkins explores the complexities of gun violence and its impact on a community. Through multiple perspectives, she delves into the motivations, emotions, and interconnectedness of individuals involved in a tragic event.
10) Sanctuary Highway (2019)
Ellen Hopkins, a #1 New York Times bestselling author, delivers a gripping tale of two teens struggling to survive in a radically transformed, militarized United States.
The government, now called the Confederation, has redefined what it means to be an “American.” The criteria are strict, exceptions scarce.
Two teens, labeled outsiders by the Confederation, are in peril and must unite for a perilous thousand-mile journey north to safety.
Survival hinges on trust in strangers, but not everyone is who they seem. When your only reliable ally is yourself, and a single whispered word can determine freedom or captivity, life or death, who do you turn to?”
11) Closer to Nowhere (2020)
Aimed at a middle-grade audience, “Closer to Nowhere” follows the lives of two young cousins, Hannah and Cal, as they navigate their complicated family dynamics and the challenges of growing up.
The book sensitively addresses themes of friendship, resilience, and the importance of finding one’s place in the world.
12) What about Will? (2021)
Trace has always looked up to his older brother Will, who has taught him how to ride a bike and play sports. But Trace’s entire life changes when Will gets a brain injury during a football game which leaves Will with a facial tic and depression. Trace realizes some secrets cannot be kept if we ever hope to heal.
13) “In the Break” (2021)
This novel centers around the lives of four teenagers, each dealing with their own struggles and aspirations. Through their interconnected stories, Hopkins explores themes of resilience, self-acceptance, and the power of human connections in the face of adversity.
14) Sanctuary Highway (2022)
Sanctuary Highway tells the story of two teens who must rely on strangers’ compassion for survival.
