Families who loved Confessions of a Closet Catholic by Sarah Darer Littman often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent should reach for this book when their child is beginning to question the 'why' behind family traditions or feels like they are performing a religious identity that does not yet feel authentic. It is an ideal resource for families navigating the spiritual curiosity of a pre-teen who is looking for a personal connection to faith beyond just attending services or following rules. The story follows Justine, an eleven year old girl who decides to 'give up' being Jewish for Lent to see if Catholicism offers more comfort, especially as she faces the frightening reality of her beloved grandmother's illness. This book explores the heavy themes of guilt, grief, and identity with a light, humorous touch that makes it highly accessible for middle-grade readers aged 9 to 13. It normalizes the 'identity crisis' many children face when they realize their family's culture is just one of many ways to see the world.
