Families who loved Buried Fire by Jonathan Stroud 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 child is grappling with the burden of a secret or a sudden shift in their personality that makes them feel isolated from the family. It is a sophisticated fantasy that explores the intoxicating and dangerous nature of power through thirteen year old Michael, who awakens an ancient dragon and receives supernatural gifts that threaten to pull him away from his siblings and moral center. Through Michael's struggle, the story examines how the desire to be 'special' can sometimes lead us to hide our true selves from those who love us most. While the pacing is thrilling, the heart of the book is about the courage it takes to remain vulnerable and honest. It is best suited for middle schoolers who enjoy atmospheric, slightly eerie tales that mirror the complex emotional shifts of early adolescence.