Families who loved My Last Summer with Cass by Mark Crilley 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 navigating the messy transition from childhood playmate to adult friend, especially if creative differences or a breach of trust have entered the picture. It is a perfect choice for the young artist who feels their identity is tied to a specific friendship and is struggling to find their own voice. The story explores the evolution of Megan and Cass, two friends who have shared every summer since toddlerhood but find themselves at odds during a transformative stay in New York City. The book addresses complex themes of artistic integrity, the weight of keeping secrets, and the painful but necessary process of setting boundaries. While the tone is poignant and sophisticated, it remains highly accessible for readers aged 12 and up. Parents will appreciate the way it models the difficulty of an apology and the reality that some friendships must change form in order to survive.