Families who loved Enna Burning by Shannon Hale 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 child is grappling with intense, overwhelming emotions or feels a sense of losing control over their own reactions. While set in a lush fantasy world, it serves as a powerful metaphor for the internal struggle of a young person who possesses a great talent or passion that threatens to consume their identity and relationships. It is an ideal pick for those who feel their own fire, whether that is anger, ambition, or a fierce independence, and need to see a path toward balance. The story follows Enna, who discovers she can speak to and control fire. What starts as a desire to protect her kingdom quickly becomes an addiction that alienates her from her friends and puts her life in danger. Parents should be aware that the book contains more mature themes than its predecessor, including the violent death of a sibling, war-related peril, and a plot involving drugging and manipulation. It is a sophisticated choice for middle schoolers that explores accountability and the importance of leaning on others during a personal crisis.