In the realm of young adult fiction, few books capture the essence of friendship, personal struggles, and identity as beautifully as Lily and Dunkin by Donna Gephart. If you loved this heartwarming and thought-provoking story, here are 16 other books that delve into similar themes, each offering a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of growing up.
Books Similar to Lily and Dunkin
1. Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda
Becky Albertalli’s novel follows Simon Spier, a high school junior who is trying to navigate life while keeping his sexual orientation a secret. When an email falls into the wrong hands, Simon’s secret is at risk of being exposed. This book is a heartfelt and humorous exploration of identity and acceptance.
2. The Thing About Jellyfish
Ali Benjamin’s The Thing About Jellyfish tells the story of Suzy Swanson, who becomes convinced that her best friend’s tragic drowning was caused by a rare jellyfish sting. This poignant novel beautifully captures the complexities of grief and the search for answers.
3. George
In Alex Gino’s George, the protagonist, Melissa, knows she’s a girl, though everyone else sees her as a boy named George. This touching story offers a sensitive and insightful look at transgender identity and the courage it takes to be oneself.
4. Wonder
R.J. Palacio’s Wonder introduces us to Auggie Pullman, a boy with a facial difference who enters mainstream school for the first time. The novel is an inspiring tale about kindness, empathy, and the importance of not judging a book by its cover.
5. The Misfits
James Howe’s The Misfits follows four friends who have been bullied for being different. They decide to run for student council on a platform of acceptance and change. This book is a powerful reminder of the strength found in friendship and standing up for what’s right.
6. The Stars Beneath Our Feet
David Barclay Moore’s novel centers around Lolly Rachpaul, a twelve-year-old coping with the death of his brother. With the help of his friends and a newfound passion for building with LEGO, Lolly navigates his grief and finds hope. This story is a testament to resilience and creativity.
7. Counting by 7s
Holly Goldberg Sloan’s Counting by 7s is about Willow Chance, a twelve-year-old genius who is obsessed with nature and diagnosing medical conditions. Her life is upended when her adoptive parents die in a car crash. This novel beautifully depicts the journey of healing and finding a new family.
8. The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Stephen Chbosky’s The Perks of Being a Wallflower is a coming-of-age story told through the letters of Charlie, a high school freshman dealing with the complexities of adolescence. This book is a raw and honest look at mental health, friendship, and self-discovery.
9. Every Day
David Levithan’s Every Day follows “A,” a person who wakes up in a different body each day. When “A” falls in love with Rhiannon, they must navigate the challenges of their unique existence. This novel explores identity and love in a truly unique way.
10. Stargirl
Jerry Spinelli’s Stargirl introduces us to the eccentric and captivating Stargirl Caraway, who changes the lives of everyone at Mica High School. This novel is a celebration of nonconformity and the power of kindness.
11. The Miseducation of Cameron Post
Emily M. Danforth’s The Miseducation of Cameron Post follows Cameron, a teenage girl sent to a conversion therapy camp after her parents die. This powerful novel addresses themes of identity, sexuality, and the struggle for self-acceptance.
12. The Hate U Give
Angie Thomas’s The Hate U Give tells the story of Starr Carter, who witnesses the police shooting of her best friend. This gripping novel tackles issues of race, justice, and activism, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of these critical topics.
13. Eleanor & Park
Rainbow Rowell’s Eleanor & Park is a tender love story between two misfit teens in the 1980s. Through their shared love of music and comics, Eleanor and Park find solace in each other. This novel beautifully captures the intensity and vulnerability of first love.
14. Speak
Laurie Halse Anderson’s Speak follows Melinda, a high school freshman who becomes mute after a traumatic event. This powerful novel addresses the importance of finding one’s voice and the journey to healing after trauma.
15. The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
Sherman Alexie’s The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian tells the story of Junior, a Native American teenager who transfers to an all-white high school. This semi-autobiographical novel is a poignant exploration of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams.
16. The Fault in Our Stars
John Green’s The Fault in Our Stars follows Hazel Grace Lancaster, a teenager with cancer, who falls in love with Augustus Waters, a fellow cancer patient. This heart-wrenching novel explores love, loss, and the meaning of life in the face of illness.