Books Like Wide Awake
Families who loved Wide Awake by David Levithan often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Wide Awake by David Levithan 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 expressing a deep interest in social justice, the mechanics of democracy, or the nuances of their own intersectional identity. It is an ideal choice for a teen who feels overwhelmed by political discourse and needs to see a hopeful, proactive model for civic engagement and personal integrity. The story follows two boyfriends, Jimmy and Duncan, who travel across the country to join a protest after a contested presidential election. While the backdrop is a near-future political crisis, the heart of the book is about the power of young voices and the beauty of a supportive relationship. It explores themes of Jewish identity, LGBTQ+ pride, and the importance of standing up for what is right even when the outcome is uncertain. It is a sophisticated, optimistic read for ages 14 and up that validates a teen's desire to change the world.
