Families who loved The Boyfriend Rules of Good Behavior by Catherine Bateson often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent would reach for this book when their child is displaying resentment or coldness toward a new partner in the home. It is a deeply empathetic resource for navigating the territorial feelings and grief that often surface when a single parent begins dating again. Through the eyes of Millie, the story explores the internal conflict of wanting a parent to be happy while feeling like a stranger is intruding on a sacred family unit. Written in verse, the book is accessible and emotionally resonant for middle schoolers. It validates the child's perspective without villainizing the adults. Parents might choose this to open a dialogue about the unwritten rules of a changing household, helping their child find words for their jealousy and the fear of being replaced. It is a gentle guide for families moving from resistance toward a new kind of normal.
