Families who loved Always Anthony by Terri Libenson 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 if your child is navigating the complex social hierarchies of middle school and feels the weight of peer pressure or the fear of speaking out. It is a perfect choice for kids who are beginning to notice social injustices or bullying within their friend groups but feel paralyzed by the desire to fit in. The story follows popular Anthony and shy Leah as they navigate an unexpected tutoring arrangement that blossoms into a genuine connection. When Anthony's teammates target a younger student, the book explores the internal conflict between social loyalty and moral integrity. It provides a realistic, relatable look at the courage required to be an upstander rather than a bystander, making it an excellent tool for parents to discuss values and friendship with 8 to 12 year olds.