Families who loved Spells & Sleeping Bags by Sarah Mlynowski often look for books with a similar feel. These 19 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your middle schooler is navigating the social pressures of summer camp or feeling the sting of being left out by a sibling or close friend. This contemporary fantasy follows Rachel as she heads to sleepaway camp with her brand new magic powers, hoping to impress her crush. However, she quickly finds herself sidelined when her younger sister bonds with a popular girl who has a secret, mean-spirited agenda. It is an ideal choice for parents who want to help their child process the complexities of female friendships and the importance of trusting one's own perceptions. The story beautifully balances lighthearted humor with the very real emotional weight of sibling rivalry and social exclusion. While the magic adds a layer of fun, the core of the book is about Rachel finding the confidence to stand up for herself and protect those she cares about, even when it is socially risky. It is a relatable and normalizing read for any preteen dealing with the shifting dynamics of their peer group.