Families who loved My Invisible Boyfriend by Susanna Mary Day 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 teenager expresses feeling invisible among peers or is struggling with the pressure to curate a perfect online image. It is particularly relevant for those navigating the transition to high school where social hierarchies feel rigid and unforgiving. The story follows fifteen-year-old Heidi, who invents a fictional boyfriend to boost her social standing at her British high school, only to find the lie spinning out of control as her friends fall for the fake persona. Through Heidi's humorous but stressful predicament, the novel explores themes of self-worth, the ethical dilemmas of social media, and the search for authentic connection. It is an ideal choice for parents who want to open a dialogue about the difference between popularity and genuine friendship without being preachy. The tone is lighthearted and relatable for ages 12 to 16, providing a safe space to discuss the consequences of 'faking it' to fit in.