Families who loved Well, That Was Unexpected by Jesse Q. Sutanto often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent might reach for this book when their teenager is struggling to bridge the gap between traditional family expectations and their own digital-age identity. It is a perfect choice for families navigating the specific tensions of being 'too much' for one culture and 'not enough' for another. The story follows Sharlot and George, two teens whose parents meddle in their lives by catfishing each other on a dating app to set their children up. As the two families collide in Indonesia, the book explores themes of cultural heritage, the weight of parental sacrifice, and the humor found in awkward family dynamics. It is highly appropriate for ages 14 and up, offering a hilarious yet poignant look at why parents sometimes do the wrong things for the right reasons.