Families who loved Keep It Real by Laura Dower 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 middle schooler is struggling with the 'highlight reel' effect of social media or feels caught in a cycle of comparison and rivalry with peers. It is particularly helpful for children navigating the complexities of a changing family dynamic following a divorce or remarriage. The story follows Madison Finn, a relatable 12-year-old who uses her digital diary to process the ups and downs of seventh grade. When she discovers through a blog that her 'perfect' rival, Ivy, is actually dealing with her own hidden struggles, Madison must confront her own biases and learn the value of empathy. It is a grounded, age-appropriate look at digital ethics, the importance of looking beneath the surface, and the maturity required to move past childhood grudges.