Families who loved Will & Whit by Laura Lee Gulledge 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 struggling with a quiet, lingering grief or a specific fear that they are trying to manage through isolation. Wilhelmina, or Will, is a creative teen who makes elaborate shadow puppets and lamps to keep her fear of the dark at bay, a phobia rooted in the tragic loss of her parents. When a massive hurricane named Whitney threatens her town, Will is forced to step out of her internal world and rely on her community to navigate the literal and emotional darkness. It is an ideal choice for parents looking to validate the way creativity can serve as a coping mechanism while gently encouraging their child to re-engage with others. The graphic novel format makes the heavy themes of trauma and anxiety accessible and visually engaging for ages 12 and up.