12 YA Books Featuring Strong Female Characters

"Some of my favorite female role models are fictional (though I'm not discounting the real ones!). These ladies are strong, independent, and inspirational. Oh, and they're basically all badasses. Whether they're physically, mentally, or emotionally strong (or all three), they're characters that make me want to be the best that I can be. They're interesting, complex, and make me proud to be a woman. I hope they'll do the same for you!" (Janine Perez/Riveted)