Families who loved May by Gabrielle Lord 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 middle schooler feels overwhelmed by unfair expectations or is struggling to find the internal grit to keep going through a difficult season. May is the fifth installment in the high-stakes Conspiracy 365 series, focusing on Cal Ormond as he continues his year-long flight from shadowy enemies. Beyond the pulse-pounding chase, the book serves as a masterclass in resilience and the necessity of independent problem-solving. While the series contains intense action and peril, it remains grounded in the emotional reality of a teen forced to grow up overnight. Parents will appreciate the way it models persistence in the face of fear. It is ideal for readers aged 10 to 15 who crave fast-paced thrillers and stories where the protagonist must rely on their wits and a few trusted allies to navigate a world where the adults are not always the protectors they should be.