Books Like The Plain Janes
Families who loved The Plain Janes by Cecil Castellucci often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved The Plain Janes by Cecil Castellucci 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 struggling to adjust after a major life change, such as moving to a new town or processing a traumatic event. It is particularly resonant for kids who feel like 'outsiders' or who use art as a primary way to communicate their feelings. The story follows Jane, a girl who moves from the city to the suburbs after surviving a public bombing. She forms a secret club with three other 'Janes' to perform 'art attacks' around their town, transforming their environment and their own mental health through creativity. While it deals with the aftermath of trauma, the focus is on resilience, the power of female friendship, and reclaiming one's voice. It is an excellent choice for ages 12 and up, providing a realistic look at teen social dynamics and the healing nature of creative expression.
