With stunning cinematography and intricate plot lines, Euphoria has captivated audiences from its very first episode, but this show’s complex characters are what really sucks viewers in. Can’t get enough of Euphoria‘s twists, turns, and emotional breakdowns? We’ve got you covered with these character and book pairings.
Pick Your Favorite Euphoria Character and get a Book Rec
Rue Bennet – Go Ask Alice by Anonymous
Everyone’s favorite unreliable narrator is an old soul who is loyal to a fault. Making friends may be had for her, but she will do anything for the ones she has. She is trying to find her place in the world, and she may make some mistakes along the way, but the only thing that matters is that she tries her best. Those mistakes manifest viscerally in Go Ask Alice, where a young woman like Rue chases adrenaline to sometimes dire results. In each instance, these young women tend to keep to themselves as they try to navigate the world the best they can.
Gia Bennett – Summer Bird Blue by Akemi Dawn Bowman
The sweet, supportive younger Gia holds family very close to her heart. Like Gia, Summer Bird Blue‘s Rumi Seto spends a lot of time worrying for other at the expense of her own grief. During moments of doubt, and even being forgotten, both girls find support in the most unlikely of places. These girls value mindfulness, care, and unrelenting love behind one’s actions most in the most troubling of times. They may take things at a slower pace, but their good heart always shines through.
Fezco – When I was the Greatest by Jason Reynolds
Fez became responsible for helping his grandmother run a shop as well as taking care of his adoptive brother Ashtray. But, his inner kid is still in there and you get to see it come out slightly. Just like Ali in When I was the Greatest, Fez had to act like an adult from such a young age in a tough neighborhood. Sometimes responsibility overwhelms Ali and Fez. However, it is because they care for people in a unique way and never wants to see their friends go through hard times. Loyalty is their language, and they will do whatever it takes to protect them.
Maddy Perez – The Education of Margo Sanchez by Lilliam Rivera
Confident, bold opinions, and unwavering loyalty are all traits Maddy Perez shares with Margo in The Education of Margo Sanchez. Like Maddy, Margo is the definition of go big or go home. They do not half attempt situations, it’s go for broke. They are deeply caring and only a few people are lucky enough to have seen that side of them.
Nate Jacob – When We Were Infinite by Kelly Loy Gilbert
Nate is a complex boy. In When We Were Infinite, Jason also suffers in ways he’s never shared with anyone. Family struggles overwhelm both boys to remain the well-liked Golden Boy despite the traumatizing truths their past.
Lexi Howard – How Moon Fuentez Fell in Love With the Universe by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland
Lexi appreciates the sweet, tender things in life. As shy as she is, she may appear as the only normal person in a room. Like Lexi, Moon Fuentez may sometimes be overlooked to her more popular sister. She even starts to question her destiny as the unnoticed, unloved wallflower she always thought she was. Nevertheless, both girls always try to help those around them and believes in second chances!
Cassie Howard – The Way I Used to Be by Amber Smith
Cassie will always go out of her way to make sure those closest to her know they are loved and do anything for them. Like The Way I Used to Be’s Eden, often take advantage of how nice Cassie is, but, at the end of the day, she knows who will be there for her no matter what. Both young women have such a big heart and are always trying to find their true happiness. People may mislabel them and take advantage of their kindness. Nevertheless, these strong gals are tougher than people give them credit for.
Chris McKay – Until Friday Night by Abbi Glines
Like Chris McKay, West Ashby is a natural-born football player expected to strive for a career in professional football. Both boys must balance college aspirations and hometown glory. The praise for their potential promise frequently ignores the emotional, physical, and mental toll they face. Along the way, finding love brings solace against this stress. They have been pressured a lot in their past, and that shows up in their relationships, but they aim to be the best. It is hard to adjust to new circumstances but these Golden Boys always try their best.
Kat Hernandez – Alex, Approximately by Jenn Bennett
Kat is the body positive queen who tries to prove to the world and herself that she is in no way lacking because of her body. She finds community with her online persona just like Bailey Rydell in Alex, Approximately. Like Kat, Bailey finds transferring one’s digital self to an IRL relationship can be confusing and heart-wrenching, but surrounding herself with affirming friends helps her to combat those anxieties and insecurities. Even if they aren’t always confident, each young woman realizes that loving herself is of the upmost importance.
Jules Vaughn – Something Like Gravity by Amber Smith
Jules is an exceptionally bold artist with impeccable fashion sense. She is lovable and lively – wanting to live her teenage dream to the fullest even if she is impulsive. She may have trouble trusting people at first but, eventually, is loyal until the end and confidant to all. Something Like Gravity demonstrates mutual soul searching to try new things with deep romantic vulnerability. Like Jules, Chris and Maia try to find closure and themselves amid chaos.