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Books like The DUFF: Designated Ugly Fat Friend
Award winning
13: A Novel
Jason Brown, Dan Elish, 2022
208 pages
Why to read
Captivating narrative fosters creativity and imagination.
Characters demonstrate resilience and growth.
Encourages critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Ideal for enhancing literacy and engagement.

13: A Novel
Jason Brown, Dan Elish, 2022
Award winning
The Education of Ivy Blake
Ellen Airgood, 2016
240 pages
Why to read
Empowers resilience and personal growth in young readers.
Addresses friendship, family challenges, and self-discovery.
Inspires empathy and understanding through engaging narrative.
Encourages parent-child discussions about life’s obstacles.

The Education of Ivy Blake
Ellen Airgood, 2016
Award winning
Lily and Dunkin
Donna Gephart, 2016
352 pages
Why to read
Addresses themes of friendship, identity, and acceptance.
Encourages empathy and understanding of diverse experiences.
Supports conversations on mental health and resilience.
Ideal for promoting open-mindedness and inclusivity.

Lily and Dunkin
Donna Gephart, 2016
Award winning
The Clique
Lisi Harrison, 2007
220 pages
Why to read
Addresses real-life middle school social dynamics.
Encourages empathy and understanding among peers.
Explores themes of friendship and self-discovery.
Engaging narrative that keeps readers invested.

The Clique
Lisi Harrison, 2007
Award winning
It's Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, Gender, and Sexual Health
Robie H. Harris, Michael Emberley, 2021
128 pages
Why to read
Addresses puberty, health, and bodies comprehensively.
Empowers kids with knowledge about growth and changes.
Encourages open dialogue between children and parents.
Promotes healthy attitudes towards gender and sexuality.

It's Perfectly Normal: Changing Bodies, Growing Up, Sex, Gender, and Sexual Health
Robie H. Harris, Michael Emberley, 2021
Dimsie Moves Up
Dorita Fairlie Bruce, 1921
150 pages
Why to read
Chronicles Dimsie's adventures and growth at boarding school.
Encourages resilience and friendship through engaging narrative.
Offers valuable life lessons in a relatable context.
Supports development of empathy and social skills.

Dimsie Moves Up
Dorita Fairlie Bruce, 1921
Award winning
Time to Shine at the River School
Sabine Adeyinka, 2023
178 pages
Why to read
Captivating journey of friendship and discovery.
Enhances emotional intelligence and social skills.
Encourages curiosity about nature and environment.
Supports early literacy and language development.

Time to Shine at the River School
Sabine Adeyinka, 2023
Award winning
Little White Lies (Holly's Heart, Book 10)
Beverly Lewis, 1995
160 pages
Why to read
Teaches values of honesty and integrity.
Encourages understanding of friendship dynamics.
Addresses real-life dilemmas faced by children.
Reinforces positive decision-making and personal growth.
