The Similars

Reach for this book when your teenager is struggling with their sense of self after a significant loss or feels like they are being compared to a version of themselves they do not recognize. It is an ideal pick for a teen who feels isolated in their grief or is questioning if they are truly unique in a world that often demands conformity. The story follows Emmaline at an elite boarding school where six clones, called Similars, have just enrolled. One of them is a perfect copy of her late best friend, forcing Emma to confront her mourning and her identity head-on. While the setting is a futuristic thriller, the heart of the book explores the deep ache of losing a loved one and the ethical dilemmas of science. It is a sophisticated read for ages 12 and up that balances fast-paced mystery with a serious look at what makes a human soul irreplaceable.