Families who loved Untraceable by Aya de León 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 teen is navigating the complexities of body image or feeling like an outsider in their own community. It is an ideal choice for a child who feels pressured to shrink themselves, literally or figuratively, to fit into a environment where they do not see themselves reflected. This fast paced spy thriller follows fifteen year old Amani as her stable life vanishes, forcing her to relocate from a wealthy white private school to an underfunded urban school while her family hides from a dangerous past. Beyond the high stakes mystery, the heart of the story focuses on Amani embracing her plus size Black identity and learning to trust her own instincts when the adults in her life are keeping secrets. It is a sophisticated read for ages 12 and up that balances adrenaline with deep emotional intelligence regarding race, family loyalty, and self acceptance.