Families who loved Donut Days by Lara Zielin 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 teenager begins to push back against family traditions or feels stifled by the expectations you have for their future career or education. Emma is a relatable, sarcastic protagonist facing a common high school dilemma: her parents will only fund her college education if she attends a religious school she dislikes. To win her independence, she enters a journalism contest centered around a local donut shop craze. While the story is lighthearted and funny, it tackles the heavy emotional work of self-advocacy and spiritual identity. It is ideal for ages 12 and up, providing a safe space to discuss the tension between honoring one's family and being true to oneself. Parents will appreciate the way it models finding a middle ground through creative problem-solving and honest communication.