Families who loved Dawn's Big Date by Ann M. Martin 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 preteen is beginning to navigate the complicated world of first dates, long-distance friendships, and the pressure to change who they are to impress others. This story follows Dawn Schafer as she balances her identity between two coasts, dealing with the excitement and anxiety of a double date while questioning if her feelings for a boy back home are getting in the way. It is a relatable exploration of self-confidence and the realization that being yourself is more important than fitting a certain image. Parents will appreciate how the book normalizes the awkwardness of early adolescence. It addresses the common 'grass is greener' mentality children often face after a move or a family change. The story is gentle, age-appropriate for the 8 to 12 range, and provides a safe space to discuss honesty in relationships and the importance of staying true to one's own values.