Stead has written three young adult books. Her first book, "First Light", was published in 2007. It is about a young boy who is studying climate change. Her second book, "When You Reach Me", was published in 2009. It is a mix of mystery, historical fiction, and a school story. It won the Newbery Medal in 2010. Her next book, "Liar and Spy," was published in 2012. This book is about a seventh grade boy living in Brooklyn, New York, and how he feels about problems with his best friend. "Liar and Spy" won the Guardian Prize in 2013. Her latest book is "Goodbye Stranger."