Books Like...
If you liked The Rest of Us Just Live Here, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
A moving, empathetic portrait of mental illness disguised as a mystery, packed with sharp dialogue and genuine emotion - heavy at times, but ultimately hopeful. Highly recommended for YA fans interested in authentic mental health stories.
AT THE TIME I FIRST REALIZED I might be fictional, my weekdays were spent at a publicly funded institution on the north side of Indianapolis called White River High School, where I was required to eat... - #2
A mind-bending, thought-provoking read that challenges what you know about reality and leaves you questioning everything. Beautifully written and emotionally resonant, 'More Than This' is for readers ready to embrace a little confusion and a lot of heart.
The first moments after the boy’s death pass for him in a confused and weighty blur. He is dimly aware of pain, but mostly of a tremendous fatigue, as if he has been covered in layer upon layer of imp... - #3
A haunting, unforgettable exploration of loss, hope, and whether life is worth saving, We Are the Ants is a must-read for anyone who likes YA that goes deep - even if it hurts a little along the way.
Consider your life for a moment. Think about all those little rituals that sustain you throughout your day—from the moment you wake up until that last, lonely midnight hour when you guzzle a gallon of... - #4
A poignant, beautifully written coming-of-age story with a bittersweet, magical twist. It's not for everyone, but for the right reader, it's unforgettable.
His mom had enough to do, she said; she needed them this morning, pretty much right now if the day wasn’t going to be a total loss; and in the end, Adam’s attendance at this little “get-together” with... - #5
This is a heartfelt, diverse, and authentic exploration of friendship and finding your path in a world obsessed with achievement. Perfect for anyone who’s ever felt a little lost or pressured - absolutely worth picking up!
We stood still and listened and I remember every single thing I heard in that moment. I heard the rumbling of the train we’d just got off leaving the station, heading farther into town. I heard the ti... - #6
A beautifully written, deeply relatable story for anyone who’s ever struggled to belong - bittersweet, witty, and rich with heart. Worth picking up if you like heartfelt YA with real emotional depth.
Some people said Dad had Aryan looks, which always made him uncomfortable. The word Aryan used to mean noble—it’s an old Sanskrit word, and Mom says it’s actually the root word for Iran—but it means s... - #7
A heartbreakingly beautiful novel about love, loss, family, and forgiveness - told through dazzling prose and unforgettable characters. If you want a YA book that feels like an emotional rollercoaster (in the best way), don't miss it.
Then Zephyr’s on me, has one, both of my arms behind my back, and Fry’s grabbed my sketchpad. I lunge for it but I’m armless, helpless. I try to wriggle out of Zephyr’s grasp. Can’t. Try to blink them... - #8
A sweet and genuine coming-of-age tale with lovable, quirky characters - great for anyone looking for an uplifting, music-fueled YA romance that doesn’t shy away from real teen struggles but keeps things mostly light and hopeful.
Evidence exists that is contrary to this statement, but this is what I’m thinking in the hospital bathroom. In movies, actors are always splashing water on their faces in times of crisis as if this wi... - #9
A clever, character-driven fantasy perfect for those craving intrigue, inclusive rep, and a slower-burn but deeply rewarding mystery. Worth sticking with if you love immersive worlds and nuanced, flawed heroes.
He served me the toxin in his signature cheese stew. It gave me waves of stomach cramps and hallucinations of every horror my young mind could conjure, but left no lasting damage. I learned that day t... - #10
Beautiful, poetic, and quietly heart-wrenching, 'We Are Okay' is a slow-burn exploration of loss and love - a must for fans of emotional, introspective YA, but it’s not for readers looking for a page-turner.
Only an hour in, and already the first temptation: the warmth of my blankets and bed, my pillows and the fake-fur throw Hannah’s mom left here after a weekend visit. They’re all saying, Climb in. No o...