Families who loved The Storybook of Legends 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 feels boxed in by the labels others have placed on them or is struggling with the pressure to follow in a parent's footsteps. This story centers on Raven Queen, who is expected to be a villain, and Apple White, who is desperate for her to play that part so Apple can be the hero. It explores the heavy burden of legacy and the courage required to say no to a pre-written destiny. While it features a fun, high-fashion boarding school setting, the core is a sophisticated look at identity and agency. It is perfect for upper elementary readers who are beginning to navigate social cliques and the desire for independence. You might choose it to help your child see that being 'good' or 'bad' is a choice we make every day, not a role we are born into.