Families who loved Take My Advice! by Robin Palmer 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 starting to navigate the complex social hierarchies and unspoken rules of middle school. It is an ideal choice for the child who feels like an outsider or who is struggling to balance their private feelings with their public persona. The story follows Maya, a relatable sixth grader who becomes her school's secret advice columnist while simultaneously dealing with her own friendship drama and embarrassing mishaps. Through Maya's journey, the book explores themes of empathy, social integrity, and the realization that everyone, even the 'popular' kids, is fighting a hidden battle. It is perfectly pitched for ages 9 to 12, offering a humorous yet grounded look at the importance of being true to oneself. Parents will appreciate how it normalizes the awkwardness of pre-teen life and provides a bridge for discussing peer pressure and the ethics of giving (and taking) advice.