Families who loved Insides Out by Zack Zombie 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 suddenly acting like a different person, struggling with mood swings, or feeling overwhelmed by the social pressures of middle school. While the protagonist is a pixelated zombie, his internal world is a mirror for the confusing onset of puberty and emotional deregulation that often catches both parents and children off guard. Written in a humorous, high-interest diary format, the story follows a 13-year-old Minecraft Zombie who discovers that his 'insides' are acting up in ways that make his daily life chaotic. Through slapstick humor and relatable social mishaps, the book validates the 'gross' or embarrassing parts of growing up. It provides a non-threatening way for parents to discuss emotional intelligence and self-regulation with children who might otherwise shut down when talking about their feelings.