Families who loved See Ya, Simon by David Hill 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 child is processing a friend's serious illness, navigating life with a physical disability, or beginning to ask profound questions about mortality and legacy. It provides a rare, honest bridge for discussing the reality that not all illnesses have a cure, while emphasizing the vibrant life that exists in the meantime. See Ya, Simon follows the final year of a witty, sharp-tongued teenager with muscular dystrophy through the eyes of his best friend, Nathan. While the subject matter is undeniably heavy, the tone is surprisingly humorous and grounded in the messy, everyday reality of middle school. It avoids sentimentality in favor of authenticity, making it a powerful tool for building empathy and helping children understand how to be a supportive, present friend during difficult times.