Families who loved Boys R Us by Lisi Harrison 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 middle schooler is navigating the sharp edges of clique culture, feeling replaced by friends, or struggling with the pressure to date. It speaks to the intense insecurity that often hides behind a polished exterior. The story follows Massie Block, a girl who feels her social power slipping as her best friends begin focusing on boys. To mask her loneliness and jealousy, she goes to extreme, often misguided lengths to maintain appearances. While the world of Westchester is one of wealth and fashion, the underlying themes of friendship loyalty and the fear of being left behind are deeply relatable. It is a realistic look at the social growing pains of ages 11 to 14, providing a safe way to discuss the difference between true friendship and social status.