Families who loved Through the Looking Glass: Finding the Real Me by Lila Thompson 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 begins to withdraw into the curated world of social media or struggles with the 'perfection trap' of high school social hierarchies. It is an ideal resource for the quiet child who has a rich inner world but fears that being their true self will lead to rejection. Through the story of Ivy Rivers, the book explores how digital spaces can be used for genuine connection rather than just performance. Ivy's journey through viral mishaps and mending a fractured friendship offers a realistic look at modern identity formation. It is a gentle yet compelling narrative for ages 13 to 18 that validates the anxiety of being 'seen' while celebrating the courage it takes to be authentic. Parents will appreciate how it models healthy vulnerability and digital citizenship without being overly preachy.
