If you’re a fan of the emotionally charged and deeply resonant world of Dear Evan Hansen, you’re likely on the hunt for more compelling reads in the young adult genre that tackle similar themes of identity, mental health, and the power of human connection. Below, I’ve compiled a list of 19 books that echo the heartfelt and thought-provoking nature of Dear Evan Hansen. Each entry includes a brief summary and why it’s worth your attention.
Books Similar to Dear Evan Hansen
1. The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Stephen Chbosky’s beloved novel captures the trials and tribulations of adolescence through the eyes of Charlie, a socially awkward high school freshman. The book delves into themes of mental health, friendship, and the journey to self-acceptance. If you loved the emotional depth of Dear Evan Hansen, this book is a must-read.
2. Eliza and Her Monsters
Francesca Zappia introduces us to Eliza Mirk, a shy, reclusive teenager who finds solace in creating an online webcomic. When her identity is accidentally revealed, Eliza must navigate the complexities of real-life relationships. This book beautifully explores the intersection of online and offline worlds, making it a great pick for fans of Dear Evan Hansen.
3. Turtles All the Way Down
John Green offers a poignant look at mental illness through the story of Aza Holmes, a teenager grappling with obsessive-compulsive disorder. The novel is a touching exploration of friendship, love, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. Fans of Dear Evan Hansen will appreciate its emotional honesty and depth.
4. All the Bright Places
Jennifer Niven’s heart-wrenching tale follows Violet and Finch, two high school students who find each other just when they need it most. Dealing with themes of grief, mental illness, and the redemptive power of love, this book is a compelling read for anyone who enjoyed the emotional journey in Dear Evan Hansen.
5. It’s Kind of a Funny Story
Written by Ned Vizzini, this novel is based on the author’s own experiences with mental health. It follows Craig Gilner, a teenager who checks himself into a psychiatric hospital after a bout of severe depression. The book is both humorous and heart-wrenching, making it a relatable read for fans of Dear Evan Hansen.
6. Speak
Laurie Halse Anderson tells the story of Melinda, a high school freshman who becomes an outcast after calling the police at a summer party. As she retreats into silence, she must find the courage to speak out about what really happened. This powerful narrative will resonate with those who appreciated the raw honesty of Dear Evan Hansen.
7. Thirteen Reasons Why
Jay Asher’s compelling novel follows Clay Jensen as he listens to a series of tapes recorded by his classmate Hannah Baker, who recently took her own life. The book explores the impact of seemingly small actions and the importance of kindness and understanding. If you were moved by the themes in Dear Evan Hansen, this book is a must-read.
8. Looking for Alaska
Another gem from John Green, this novel centers on Miles “Pudge” Halter and his adventures at a boarding school where he meets the enigmatic Alaska Young. The story grapples with themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning, making it a captivating read for fans of Dear Evan Hansen.
9. The Hate U Give
Angie Thomas delivers a powerful narrative about Starr Carter, a young girl who witnesses the police shooting of her best friend. The book addresses issues of race, identity, and social justice, providing a gripping and thought-provoking read for those who appreciated the emotional complexity of Dear Evan Hansen.
10. We Are Okay
Nina LaCour’s beautifully crafted novel tells the story of Marin, a college freshman dealing with the aftermath of her grandfather’s death. The book explores themes of grief, loneliness, and the healing power of friendship. If you were touched by the emotional journey in Dear Evan Hansen, this book is for you.
11. Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda
Becky Albertalli introduces us to Simon Spier, a high school junior who is trying to keep his sexuality a secret while navigating the ups and downs of teenage life. The book is a heartfelt and humorous exploration of identity and acceptance, making it a great follow-up for fans of Dear Evan Hansen.
12. The Fault in Our Stars
Yet another masterpiece by John Green, this novel follows Hazel Grace Lancaster, a teenager with cancer, as she falls in love with Augustus Waters. The book is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and what it means to truly live. If you enjoyed the emotional depth of Dear Evan Hansen, this book is a must-read.
13. Eleanor & Park
Rainbow Rowell tells the story of two misfit high school sophomores who find solace in each other’s company. The book beautifully captures the awkwardness and intensity of first love, making it a touching read for fans of Dear Evan Hansen.
14. Every Last Word
Tamara Ireland Stone introduces us to Samantha McAllister, a popular girl with a hidden struggle: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. The book delves into her journey of self-discovery and acceptance, making it a relatable and inspiring read for those who loved Dear Evan Hansen.
15. Paper Towns
In this John Green novel, Quentin “Q” Jacobsen embarks on a quest to find Margo Roth Spiegelman, his enigmatic neighbor who disappears after leaving behind a series of clues. The book explores themes of identity, love, and the complexity of human relationships, making it a compelling read for fans of Dear Evan Hansen.
16. If I Stay
Gayle Forman tells the story of Mia Hall, a talented young cellist who must make a life-altering decision after a tragic car accident. The book is a heart-wrenching exploration of love, loss, and the choices that define us. If you were moved by the emotional journey in Dear Evan Hansen, this book is for you.
17. The Sun is Also a Star
Nicola Yoon offers a beautifully crafted narrative about Natasha and Daniel, two teenagers who meet and fall in love over the course of a single day. The book explores themes of fate, love, and the impact of our choices, making it a captivating read for fans of Dear Evan Hansen.
18. A List of Cages
Robin Roe tells the story of Adam and Julian, two boys whose lives become intertwined when Adam becomes Julian’s aide. The book explores themes of friendship, trauma, and the power of kindness, making it a deeply moving read for those who appreciated the emotional depth of Dear Evan Hansen.
19. The Astonishing Color of After
Emily X.R. Pan introduces us to Leigh Chen Sanders, a teenager who travels to Taiwan to meet her maternal grandparents after her mother’s suicide. The book is a beautiful exploration of grief, culture, and the search for meaning, making it a compelling read for fans of Dear Evan Hansen.