Families who loved Fighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley 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 ready to navigate the complexities of personal boundaries, or when they are processing past family trauma and need to see their own resilience reflected back. This is a fierce, honest story about ten year old Della and her sister Suki, who are finding safety in a foster home after escaping an abusive situation with their mother's boyfriend. While the subject matter is heavy, the story is told through Della's blunt, funny, and brave perspective. It is an essential choice for parents who want to empower their children to speak their truth. It is most appropriate for mature middle grade readers (ages 10 to 14) because of its direct handling of sexual abuse and mental health. Ultimately, this is not a book about being a victim: it is a triumphant celebration of sisterly love and the power of finding your own voice.