Families who loved Secret Identity by Wendelin Van Draanen 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 feels small, unheard, or is struggling with a persistent school bully. It is a perfect choice for the student who has a sharp mind but lacks the physical stature or social standing to confront a loud, aggressive peer directly. The story follows Nolan, a tech-savvy boy who creates a secret online persona to expose the neighborhood bully, Bubba Bixby, through investigative journalism. This fast-paced story balances high-stakes school drama with a sense of justice and empowerment. While it addresses the heavy theme of bullying, it does so with humor and a clever, digital-age twist. It is highly appropriate for elementary and early middle schoolers, especially reluctant readers who will find the short chapters and internet-integrated plot very accessible. Parents will appreciate the way it models using one's intellect and skills to create positive change rather than resorting to physical retaliation.