Books Like Tell Me
Families who loved Tell Me by Joan Bauer 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 Tell Me by Joan Bauer 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 grappling with the feeling that something in their world is 'off' but they aren't sure how to find their voice or be taken seriously by adults. It is an ideal choice for preteens navigating the quiet stress of a changing family dynamic or those who possess a strong, burgeoning sense of social justice. While the plot involves a suspenseful mystery regarding a girl in danger, the heart of the story is about building the confidence to speak up even when others are content to look the other way. Anna, a twelve-year-old staying with her grandmother while her parents work through marital struggles, finds herself at the center of a potential human trafficking situation in a town that prides itself on being perfect. Bauer handles these heavy themes with her signature blend of humor and warmth, making the serious subject matter accessible without being traumatizing. It is a masterclass in modeling civic courage and the importance of community support during personal and public crises.
