Families who loved The Dummy by Diane Hoh 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 teenager is looking for a thrilling, suspenseful escape or expresses an interest in classic horror tropes like the 'uncanny valley.' It is an ideal choice for a reader who enjoys testing their bravery through fiction and wants a fast-paced story that explores the line between imagination and reality. The story follows Brinna, a teenager who becomes increasingly convinced that her father's ventriloquist dummy is alive and harboring malicious intent. Beyond the scares, the book touches on themes of trust, family dynamics, and the anxiety of not being believed by those closest to you. It is a quintessential 90s teen thriller that provides spooky entertainment without graphic content, making it a safe yet chilling 'gateway' horror novel for middle schoolers.