Families who loved Project 17 by Laurie Faria Stolarz 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 feels isolated or like they do not quite fit into a specific social clique. While framed as a spine-tingling ghost story, Project 17 is ultimately a study of identity and the unexpected bonds formed between strangers under pressure. The story follows six very different teens who break into a legendary abandoned asylum to film a documentary, only to find that their internal struggles are as significant as the external scares they encounter. Parents will appreciate the way the narrative explores self-discovery and the breaking down of social barriers through a high-stakes adventure. It is an ideal choice for the 12 to 17 age range, offering a gripping mystery that serves as a metaphor for the 'haunted' feeling of being an outsider in high school. It provides a safe way to discuss bravery, group dynamics, and the importance of looking past labels.