Families who loved It Looks Like This by Rafi Mittlefehldt 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 intersection of religious expectations, family pressure, and their developing identity. It is a powerful resource for families navigating the complexities of coming out, especially in conservative environments. The story follows Mike as he moves to a new city and finds his first love with a boy named Sean, only to face intense scrutiny from his evangelical father and peer bullying. It explores deep themes of shame, first love, and the courage to be oneself. Due to the heavy subject matter, including a tragic incident involving Mike's sister, it is best suited for mature readers aged 14 and up who are ready for a realistic, sometimes heartbreaking, look at the costs of intolerance.