Families who loved Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead 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 begins navigating the murky waters of social media, shifting friendship loyalties, and the subtle shift from childhood to adolescence. It is an essential read for parents of children who are starting to feel the pressure of their digital footprints or who are struggling to maintain their sense of self as their peer group changes. The story follows Bridge and her two best friends as they enter seventh grade, exploring the complexities of new romantic interests, the ethics of photo-sharing, and the lingering effects of childhood trauma. Stead masterfully captures the 'middle' of middle school where kids are no longer children but not quite adults. Through multiple perspectives, the book addresses the 'betrayal of the self' that often happens when trying to fit in. It provides a safe space to discuss digital consent and the importance of having a personal 'purpose.' It is a sophisticated, compassionate choice for 10 to 14-year-olds facing the social complexities of the modern world.