Books Like Ava
Families who loved Ava by Carol Holliday often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Ava by Carol Holliday 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 they notice their teenager pulling away or struggling with a deep sense of invisibility, particularly if that isolation is linked to a learning difference or an eating disorder. It is a vital resource for the adolescent who feels like they are watching life from the sidelines, unable to find the words to express their internal chaos. Through the story of Ava, readers explore the heavy intersection of mental health, self-image, and the transformative power of finding a community that truly 'hears' you. The book follows a young woman as she navigates the complexities of her own identity and a developing talent for music. While the themes of eating disorders and learning disabilities are present, the heart of the narrative is about the brave act of reclamation: reclaiming one's voice, one's body, and one's place in the world. For parents of teens aged 13 to 18, this story provides a bridge to discuss difficult topics like self-worth and resilience in a way that feels authentic rather than clinical.
