Books Like Second Star to the Right
Families who loved Second Star to the Right by Deborah Hautzig often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Second Star to the Right by Deborah Hautzig often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent might reach for this book when they notice a teenager struggling with the weight of being the perfect child or displaying early signs of disordered eating. It is a poignant, first person account of Leslie, a fourteen year old girl who feels like she is disappearing into a cycle of self starvation to maintain control over her life and image. This story moves beyond the physical symptoms to explore the intense shame, guilt, and anxiety that drive her behavior. While the book is emotionally heavy, it serves as an essential tool for opening honest conversations about body image and the pressure to excel. It is most appropriate for mature middle schoolers and high school students who are ready to engage with realistic portrayals of mental health. Parents will find this a helpful resource for validating their child's inner struggle while highlighting the difficulty of asking for professional help.
