Books Like Smokescreen
Families who loved Smokescreen by Bernard Ashley 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 Smokescreen by Bernard Ashley 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 struggling with a difficult relocation or carrying the weight of a past traumatic event. It is particularly suited for older children who feel like outsiders in a new environment and need to see a protagonist transform their vulnerability into strength. The story follows Ellie, a girl forced to move to a pub by a dark canal that triggers deep-seated fears from her past. As she uncovers a dangerous criminal enterprise operating within her new home, the narrative shifts from a story of displacement to an intense, high-stakes thriller about standing up against injustice. This is a gritty and realistic read for ages 12 and up, exploring themes of resilience, the difficulty of trust, and the moral courage required to act when others turn a blind eye. It provides a helpful framework for discussing how to face personal 'ghosts' while navigating the complexities of right and wrong in the real world.
