Families who loved Full Shift by Jennifer Dugan often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is struggling with the pressure to succeed while hiding a physical or mental health challenge. It speaks to the fear of letting others down and the weight of maintaining an image of perfection in competitive environments. The story follows a talented hockey player whose life is upended by a sudden health diagnosis, forcing her to redefine who she is outside of her sport. It is a deeply relatable exploration of identity, honesty, and the bravery required to listen to one's own body. With its contemporary graphic novel format, this book is highly accessible for middle and high schoolers. It offers a compassionate look at the grieving process that comes with a life-changing illness while providing a hopeful roadmap for finding joy in new, unexpected places. Parents will appreciate how it models open communication with adults and the importance of self-advocacy in medical and social settings.