Families who loved Charlie Thorne and the Lost City by Stuart Gibbs 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 feels like their brain moves faster than those around them or when they are struggling to find where they belong despite their obvious talents. This high-octane adventure follows Charlie Thorne, a twelve year old genius and fugitive, as she tracks down a hidden discovery by Charles Darwin that could change the world. It is an ideal pick for kids who crave intellectual stimulation alongside their action and those who appreciate a protagonist who relies on her wits as much as her reflexes. While the story is a fast-paced thriller involving international secret societies and dangerous chases, it centers on themes of ethical responsibility and the courage required to protect the truth. Parents will appreciate the seamless integration of history, biology, and cryptography. It is perfectly suited for mature middle grade readers (ages 10-13) who are ready for high stakes and complex puzzles but still want a story that celebrates the power of a young person's agency and independence.