Families who loved The Bad Decisions Playlist by Michael Rubens often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.

This young adult novel follows Austin, a 16-year-old who sees himself as a 'screwup' but has a talent for charming his way out of trouble. His life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers his long-believed-dead father is actually Shane Tyler, a famous rock star. The story delves into Austin's journey of self-discovery as he grapples with his father's sudden return and his own aspirations to be a musician. It explores complex family dynamics, the challenges of growing up, and the impact of a parent battling personal demons, including substance abuse. Parents should be aware of the themes of addiction and complicated family relationships, which are handled with a blend of humor and poignancy.