Families who loved Thwonk by Joan Bauer 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 consumed by an all-encompassing crush or feeling invisible in the high school social hierarchy. It is a witty, fantastical exploration of Allison Jean (A.J.), an aspiring photographer who is offered a magical shortcut to win over her long-term crush through the help of a real-life cupid. As the romance unfolds, the story moves beyond simple wish fulfillment to explore the importance of authenticity and the realization that forced affection lacks the depth of true connection. This is an excellent choice for parents of 12- to 17-year-olds who want to discuss the difference between infatuation and healthy relationships. It normalizes the intensity of teenage feelings while providing a humorous, grounded perspective on self-worth and finding one's own voice through art and creativity.