Families who loved Mary: The Summoning by Hillary Monahan 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 high-stakes pressure of peer influence, or when they are fascinated by urban legends and the darker side of folklore. This psychological horror story follows four friends whose attempt to summon Bloody Mary goes dangerously wrong, forcing them to confront not only a vengeful spirit but also the cracks in their own loyalty and trust. It is a cautionary tale about the consequences of curiosity and the ways fear can either bind or break a social group. While it delivers intense scares and supernatural thrills, the heart of the story lies in the complex, often volatile dynamics of teenage friendships. It is best suited for older teens who can handle graphic horror imagery and want to explore themes of accountability and the weight of shared secrets. Parents will find it a useful entry point for discussing the difference between a true friend and a peer who pushes boundaries for their own gain.