Families who loved Heaven Is Paved with Oreos by Catherine Gilbert Murdock 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 grappling with the awkward transition from childhood playmate to potential romantic interest, or if they are beginning to realize that their parents and grandparents have complex lives they never knew about. The story follows fourteen-year-old Sarah on a transformative trip to Italy with her eccentric grandmother, leaving behind a confusing 'pretend' relationship with her best friend, Curtis. It is a warm and witty exploration of self-discovery, the weight of family secrets, and the realization that growing up means seeing the world in shades of gray rather than black and white. Parents will appreciate the way it validates the cringey moments of early adolescence while maintaining a sophisticated, thoughtful tone. It is perfectly suited for ages 10 to 14, offering a roadmap for navigating changing social dynamics and the discovery of one's own independent voice.
