Families who loved Models Don't Eat Chocolate Cookies by Erin Dionne 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 begins expressing anxiety about their body shape, weight, or the pressure to fit a specific aesthetic standard. It is a perfect choice for a child who feels like an outsider or is struggling to find the confidence to say no to family or peer expectations. The story follows thirteen-year-old Celeste, who is entered into a plus-size modeling contest against her will and decides to try losing weight just to disqualify herself. Through humor and relatable school drama, the book explores how self-worth is tied to internal character rather than clothing size. It is age-appropriate for the 10 to 14 range, offering a realistic look at middle school social hierarchies without being overly heavy. Parents will appreciate how the story moves away from a weight-loss goal toward a goal of self-advocacy and finding one's true voice.
