Families who loved Summer State of Mind by Jen Calonita 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 tween or young teen is struggling with a sense of entitlement, feeling like a fish out of water, or needs to see the value in making friends outside their usual social circle. It is a lighthearted yet meaningful story about a girl who loses her comfortable, curated lifestyle and is forced to find her own identity in a rugged environment. The book explores themes of resilience, the difference between surface-level popularity and deep friendship, and the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions. While the protagonist starts off as difficult to root for, her growth is steady and relatable for kids navigating middle school social hierarchies. It is ideal for ages 10 to 14, offering a safe space to discuss how we treat others and how our environment shapes our character.