Families who loved From the Notebooks of a Middle School Princess by Meg Cabot 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 questions of identity, feeling like an outsider in their own family, or facing the social hierarchies of middle school. It is particularly healing for children in blended families or those who have ever felt 'invisible' compared to their peers. Olivia Grace Clarisse Mignonette Harrison is an average girl who loves to draw until she discovers she is actually a princess and the half-sister of Mia Thermopolis. While the premise is fantastical, the emotional core deals with the very real insecurities of pre-adolescence, from bullying to the desire for a sense of belonging. Meg Cabot uses humor and a diary-style format to make complex feelings about family secrets and self-worth accessible. It is a lighthearted yet validating read for ages 8 to 12 that emphasizes that being a 'princess' is more about character and kindness than tiaras.
