Families who loved Friends with Boys by Faith Erin Hicks 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 is facing a major life transition, such as moving from homeschooling to a traditional school setting, or when they are feeling like an outsider in their own social circles. It is an ideal choice for children who find comfort in close-knit family dynamics but are struggling to find their own independent voice. The story follows Maggie as she navigates her first year of high school after years of being taught at home, all while dealing with the mysterious presence of a ghost that has followed her since childhood. It beautifully explores themes of sibling loyalty, the anxiety of new beginnings, and the complex process of defining oneself apart from one's family. Parents will appreciate the realistic, sensitive portrayal of sibling relationships and the gentle, secular approach to mystery and growth. It is a sweet, age-appropriate graphic novel for the 12 to 18 range that validates the awkwardness of growing up.