Families who loved Don't Hurt Laurie! by Willo Davis Roberts 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 you need to navigate a difficult conversation about family safety, secret-keeping, or physical boundaries. It is a profoundly serious story about a young girl named Laurie who is being physically abused by her mother, a secret she carries through multiple moves to different cities. While the subject matter is heavy, the book focuses on the courage it takes to speak up and the importance of finding a trusted adult who will listen and take action. This is a landmark title in children's literature for its honest depiction of child abuse. It helps children understand that their safety is paramount and that the cycle of silence can be broken. Parents should choose this book for mature middle-grade readers to foster empathy for others or to provide a lifeline for children who may be experiencing similar family dynamics. It is a tool for empowerment and a reminder that every child deserves to be protected.