Families who loved The Story of Serena Williams by Shadae B. Mallory 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 beginning to navigate the complexities of their first romantic feelings or is questioning their identity and looking for a sense of belonging. It specifically speaks to the experience of being the first among a peer group to come out, capturing the vulnerability and courage required to be authentic in a high school setting. The story follows Lana, a new student who brings a quiet revolution to her school as she navigates her first crush and the social ripples of her honesty. Parents will appreciate the dignified, non-sensationalized approach to LGBTQ+ themes, focusing on the human need for connection and the importance of supportive friendships. It is a realistic, heart-centered look at growing up that validates the emotional intensity of being a teenager while maintaining a hopeful and grounded perspective.