Based on your book
by Erin Bow
Simon Sort of Says introduces you to Simon O'Keeffe, a kid trying to outrun a past that defines him in the eyes of the world. After surviving an unthinkable tragedy, he and his family move to a small, quirky town, hoping for a fresh start. This isn't a story about the event itself, but about the quiet, often funny, and deeply human process of living afterwards. You'll spend time inside Simon's head, which is a wonderful place to be – full of sharp observations, unexpected wit, and a raw vulnerability that’s incredibly endearing. The book feels both tender and hopeful, navigating heavy themes of grief and survival with a lightness that comes from genuine human connection and the small absurdities of life. It's for anyone who loves a coming-of-age story that balances profound emotion with gentle humor, offering a reflective look at personal growth and finding your voice again.
If Simon O'Keeffe's journey of healing and self-discovery resonated with you, these books offer similar heart and depth. We picked them for their thoughtful exploration of young protagonists navigating significant personal trauma and finding their footing in new, often quirky, environments. You'll find stories that, like Simon's, beautifully balance a distinct, introspective voice with moments of unexpected humor and the crucial importance of building a supportive community. Each one offers a hopeful, reflective look at resilience and growth, proving that even after adversity, there's always a path forward.
We earn from qualifying purchases through our affiliate partners, including Amazon and Bookshop.org.
Like Simon, Coyote is a young protagonist dealing with significant past trauma while living in a quirky, mobile environment. The story balances heavy emotional themes with a humorous, fast-paced narrative voice and a deep focus on healing through community.
by Jack Cheng
This novel features a young, science-loving protagonist with a distinct voice who is trying to make sense of a complicated family situation. It mirrors the 'vibe' of Simon's journey through its blend of optimism, space-themed wonder, and underlying emotional depth.
by Tae Keller
This book shares the scientific curiosity found in Simon Sort of Says while exploring how a child navigates a family member's mental health struggles. It uses a middle-school competition as a framework for a poignant story about resilience and the scientific method.
Fans of Simon's unique perspective and 'outsider' status will appreciate Willow Chance, a genius girl who must rebuild her life after a tragedy. Both books feature a cast of eccentric characters who form a necessary support system for the protagonist.
For couples who love each other but hate planning
From chaos to calm — instant AI wedding planning, no accounts, no stress.
From the makers of Similar Book Finder
Mason Buttle, like Simon, is a protagonist who has experienced a traumatic event and is trying to find his place in a small town that doesn't quite understand him. It captures a similar balance of suspense, small-town mystery, and deep emotional sincerity.
This story deals with grief and the search for a missing person in a small-town setting, much like the thematic weight found in Simon's story. It is a lyrical and deeply emotional exploration of identity and the complexities of growing up.
Set in a vivid rural environment, this book explores a young girl's attempt to 'fix' her family's problems through magical thinking and science. It shares the same 'bittersweet' tone and focus on childhood resilience in the face of adult challenges.
This middle-grade mystery features a protagonist dealing with severe OCD and past trauma who becomes an accidental detective. It matches Simon's blend of internal psychological struggle with an external, engaging plot.
While dealing with very heavy subject matter, this book uses a sharp, resilient, and often funny narrative voice similar to Simon's. It focuses on the bond between sisters and the difficult process of speaking one's truth after trauma.
by Kate Albus
Though set in a different time period, this book shares the 'found family' and 'search for belonging' themes that are central to Simon Sort of Says. It features three siblings looking for a home, emphasizing the importance of kindness and literature in healing.
Love to read on the go?
Explore Kindle e-readers and take your books with you.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
We earn from qualifying purchases through our affiliate partners, including Amazon and Bookshop.org.