Families who loved The Ghost in the Clocktower by Lila Hawthorne 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 teenager is feeling the mounting pressure of schedules and deadlines, or when they are struggling to find their voice within a peer group. This supernatural mystery follows fifteen-year-old Taz as she navigates a literal rift in time, but the core of the story is about reclaiming agency in a world that often feels rushed and out of control. It is an ideal pick for readers who enjoy high-stakes puzzles and atmospheric suspense. Through the lens of a ghost story, the narrative explores deep-seated themes of loyalty, courage, and the importance of addressing the past to move forward. The tone is spooky yet ultimately empowering, making it a safe yet thrilling choice for middle and high schoolers who appreciate a smart protagonist who uses logic and teamwork to solve paranormal problems.