Families who loved A Fate Totally Worse Than Death by Paul Fleischman often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book if your teen is navigating the high-pressure world of social cliques or struggling with the 'mean girl' dynamic. This dark comedy serves as a cautionary tale about the toxicity of social climbing and the importance of empathy. It follows a trio of popular but cruel high schoolers who find themselves aging at a terrifying rate after a series of malicious acts. While it uses the trappings of a 90s-style horror novel, it is ultimately a biting satire about vanity and accountability. Parents will appreciate the way Fleischman uses body horror as a metaphor for the 'ugliness' of bullying. It is a quick, punchy read that uses humor to make heavy themes like death and moral decay more accessible. It is ideal for ages 12 and up, particularly for readers who enjoy 'Heathers' or 'Mean Girls' but want a supernatural twist. Use this story to spark conversations about how we treat others and the long-term impact of our reputations.
