Families who loved Ice Shock by M. G. Harris 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 navigating the complex emotions of grief or feeling overwhelmed by the expectations of others. As the second installment in the Joshua Files, it follows Josh as he returns home only to find that his father's death has left him with a world-saving destiny he never asked for. The story masterfully weaves high-stakes science fiction with the grounded, painful reality of losing a parent. It explores themes of resilience and the struggle to trust others when you feel isolated by your own unique circumstances. This is an excellent choice for kids aged 11 to 15 who enjoy fast-paced adventures but are also ready to engage with deeper questions about legacy, betrayal, and the courage it takes to move forward after a tragedy. It provides a safe space to see grief modeled through a hero who is allowed to be both powerful and vulnerable.