Families who loved As You Like It by William Shakespeare 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 your teenager is navigating the complexities of their own identity or searching for a sense of belonging in a world that feels restrictive. It is the perfect choice for a young person who feels they have to 'perform' different versions of themselves to fit in with family, peers, or society. This classic Shakespearean comedy explores the journey of Rosalind, who must flee a restrictive and dangerous court for the freedom of the Forest of Arden. By disguising herself as a young man named Ganymede, Rosalind finds the agency to explore love, friendship, and her own power on her own terms. The story balances humor and wordplay with deep philosophical reflections on the stages of life. Parents will appreciate how the play models resilience and the importance of finding a 'chosen family' when one's biological circumstances become difficult. It is a sophisticated but accessible exploration of why we sometimes have to step away from expectations to find our true selves.