Families who loved Zoe Rosenthal Is Not Lawful Good by Nancy Werlin 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 seems to be performing a version of themselves to please others or feels like their true interests are embarrassing. It is perfect for the overachiever who is burning out under the weight of perfectionism and a rigid five year plan. The story follows Zoe, a girl who has meticulously curated a serious, mature persona to match her ambitious boyfriend, but finds her real joy in the colorful, chaotic world of a sci-fi fandom. Through Zoe's secret trip to a convention, the book explores the tension between who we think we should be and who we actually are. It is a heartfelt look at identity, the courage required to be authentic, and the vital importance of finding a community where you do not have to hide your enthusiasm. This is an appropriate and engaging contemporary read for high schoolers navigating the transition to adulthood.