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And This Is Laura
by Conford, Ellen
Laura is the middle child in a family of overachievers, and she feels perpetually ordinary compared to her brilliant siblings. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she realizes she has the ability to see glimpses of the future. Instead of becoming a superhero, she mostly uses her new psychic gift to navigate the mundane social anxieties of being a teenager, like anticipating pop quizzes or family arguments. Conford writes with a sharp, dry wit that makes the supernatural elements feel like just another annoyance of adolescence. It is a breezy, nostalgic look at the desire to be special in a world that constantly compares you to everyone else. If you enjoy stories where magic is treated with a shrug rather than awe, and you appreciate a protagonist who is more concerned with surviving high school than saving the world, this is for you.
10 Books similar to 'And This Is Laura'
If Laura's journey toward self-acceptance resonated with you, our curated list explores the same intersection of family friction and the search for identity. We chose these titles because they capture that specific 1970s and 80s YA voice that balances humor with genuine teenage vulnerability. Whether through the lens of supernatural quirks or the pressure of being the odd one out in an overachieving family, these books mirror the way we navigate the awkwardness of growing up. They are perfect for readers who enjoy stories about finding your own voice when you feel overshadowed by those around you.
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Like Laura, the protagonist in this story navigates the complexities of having a unique, supernatural ability while dealing with the challenges of being an outsider. It captures that same blend of teenage isolation and the desire to fit into a world that doesn't quite understand you.
by Mary Rodgers
This classic shares the humorous, family-centered dynamic found in Conford's work, using a supernatural premise to explore the friction between a teenager and her family members. It perfectly balances lighthearted comedy with the genuine frustration of trying to be understood by one's parents.
by Richard Peck
While tonally darker, this book shares the quintessential 70s/80s YA voice that Ellen Conford mastered, focusing on the intense social pressures of high school life. Readers who appreciated the authentic, grounded teenage perspective in Conford's writing will find this equally compelling.
This story features a protagonist with a unique perspective on their surroundings, much like Laura's psychic insights. It offers a similarly witty and observant narrative voice that makes the ordinary world feel slightly extraordinary.
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This book excels at portraying the internal lives of intelligent, slightly quirky young people who feel different from their peers. Fans of Laura's struggle to find her place within a high-achieving family will appreciate the way these characters form their own unique bonds.
Meg Murry is the quintessential 'average' girl in a family of geniuses, mirroring Laura's exact struggle in Conford's novel. The blend of family dynamics and the supernatural makes this a natural next step for anyone who enjoyed Laura's journey.
Danziger's writing style is a direct peer to Conford's, featuring the same sharp, humorous, and relatable voice that defined 70s YA literature. It deals with the relatable anxieties of school, family, and self-image with a light, witty touch.
This story explores the tension between fitting in and being true to one's unique nature, a central theme in Laura's life. It captures the social pressures of high school and the beauty of embracing one's own eccentricities.
Cleary's mastery of the authentic, honest child/teen voice is unparalleled and resonates deeply with the tone of Conford's work. It focuses on the internal emotional life of a young person navigating family changes and personal growth.
by Ellen Raskin
While more of a mystery, this book features a large, eccentric cast of characters and a young protagonist trying to prove her worth, much like Laura. It shares that playful, clever atmosphere where the characters' hidden talents are key to the plot.
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As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.