Families who loved Ariel Crashes a Train by Olivia A. Cole 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 when you notice your teenager struggling with persistent, dark, or repetitive thoughts that they are too ashamed to share out loud. It is a vital resource for parents whose children seem to be 'spiraling' or who are exhibiting signs of OCD beyond simple cleanliness rituals. The story follows Ariel, a girl who believes she is a monster because of the violent intrusive thoughts that crash through her mind like a runaway train. Written in poignant verse, the book explores the terrifying isolation of undiagnosed mental health struggles and the relief of finally finding a name for your experience. It is a deeply empathetic choice for high schoolers who feel 'broken' or different from their peers. You might choose this to open a safe door for your child to talk about their internal world without fear of judgment.