11 of the Best Coming-of-Age Books like The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Stepping into the world of Stephen Chbosky’s “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” is like embarking on an unforgettable journey through the turbulent and transformative years of adolescence. If you’ve been touched by the raw emotions, relatable characters, and coming-of-age themes within its pages, you’re in for a literary treat. In this article, we’ve curated a list of 11 remarkable books like The Perks of Being a Wallflower. These novels, with their heartfelt narratives, delve into the universal experiences of youth, friendship, and self-discovery. Whether you’re a fan of the genre or simply seeking your next great read, these books promise to take you on a poignant adventure through the rollercoaster ride of growing up.

Books Like The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Looking for Alaska (2005)

by John Green

John Green’s writings are raw and simple, yet effective, making them the closest one can get to another book like ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower.’ It must not come as a surprise then, that the first book in the list is by Green himself (to be followed by more of his novels).

The story of ‘Looking for Alaska’ revolves around Miles “Pudge” Halter, a teenager who leaves his hometown to attend a boarding school in search of “the Great Perhaps.” There, he meets Chip “Colonel” Martin and Alaska Young, a mesmerizing and enigmatic girl who becomes the centre of his world.

Together, they embark on various adventures, engage in pranks, and discover the complexities of life and relationships. Miles becomes infatuated with Alaska, and the novel explores themes of love, friendship, loss, and the search for meaning.

The story is divided into two parts: “Before” and “After,” with “Before” leading up to a pivotal event that changes the lives of the characters. The novel revolves around the mystery of Alaska’s character and the impact she has on those around her. Throughout the book, the characters grapple with questions about life, death, and the labyrinth of human emotions.

Total Pages– 221 pages

Language- English

Goodreads Rating– 3.97

Amazon Rating– 4.5

If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 7 hours and 22 minutes to finish Looking for Alaska by John Green.

A Little Life (2015)

by Hanya Yanagihara

Although the book may pose as a difficult read because of its length, I can assure you that it’s definitely worth it.

‘A Little Life’ is centred around the complex lives and enduring friendship of four college classmates—Jude St. Francis, Willem Ragnarsson, JB Marion, and Malcolm Irvine—as they navigate the vibrant yet unforgiving backdrop of New York City.

The story primarily revolves around Jude, a mysterious and deeply traumatized individual with a haunting past. Born with disabilities, he carries deep emotional scars that remain hidden from his friends, even as they grow closer over the years. The novel delves into the complexities of Jude’s relationships, his battles with self-worth and self-destructive tendencies, and his ongoing journey toward healing.

As the years pass, the novel explores themes of love, friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice. Willem, a talented actor, becomes Jude’s steadfast protector and anchor, offering unwavering support and care. JB, an artist, and Malcolm, an architect, also play significant roles in their friend’s life, each facing their own personal struggles and triumphs.

Total Pages– 720 pages

Language- English

Goodreads Rating– 4.34

Amazon Rating– 4.5

If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 24 hours and 0 minutes to finish A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara.

Paper towns (2008)

by John Green

A coming-of-age novel, ‘Paper Towns’ follows the story of Quentin, also known as Q, and his fascination with his enigmatic neighbour, Margo Roth Spiegelman.

The story begins with Q and Margo’s childhood friendship fading away as they grow older. However, one night, Margo appears at Q’s window, seeking his help for a night of revenge against those who have wronged her. Q eagerly agrees, and they embark on an eventful adventure through their town, leaving clues behind as they go.

The next day, Margo mysteriously disappears, leaving behind cryptic clues. Driven by his infatuation with Margo and his desire to find her, Q sets off on a journey with his friends to unravel the mystery and discover Margo’s whereabouts.

As Q and his friends follow the clues, they uncover a series of paper towns—fake towns created by cartographers to protect their copyrights. This metaphorical concept symbolizes the facade that people often construct to hide their true selves.

The novel explores the themes of self-discovery, the masks we wear, and the quest for genuine connection.

Total Pages– 305 pages

Language- English

Goodreads Rating– 3.72

Amazon Rating– 4.2

If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 10 hours and 10 minutes to finish Paper Towns by John Greens.

It’s Kind of a Funny Story (2006)

by Ned Vizzini

‘It’s Kind of a Funny Story’ follows the story of Craig Gilner, a talented teenager struggling with depression and thoughts of suicide. Overwhelmed by academic pressures and societal expectations, Craig checks himself into a psychiatric hospital, seeking help and stability. Inside the hospital, he meets a diverse group of patients who each have their own unique struggles.

As Craig navigates his way through the unfamiliar world of the hospital, he forms friendships, gains insights, and learns to confront his own inner demons. With the support of his fellow patients, a wise older mentor, and a potential love interest, Craig gradually discovers the importance of self-acceptance, resilience, and finding joy in small moments.

Craig, like Charlie in ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ struggles with depression and feelings of isolation. They both find solace and support through friendships with a diverse group of characters who have their own personal challenges. Moreover, both novels also employ a first-person narrative style. If these are the reasons why you loved reading ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower,’ you must give this novel a read.

Total Pages– 444 pages

Language- English

Goodreads Rating– 4.09

Amazon Rating– 4.6

If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 14 hours and 48 minutes to finish It’s Kind of a Funny Story by Ned Vizzini.

All the Bright Places (2015)

by Jennifer Niven

“The Fault in Our Stars meets Eleanor and Park in this exhilarating and heart-wrenching love story about a girl who learns to live from a boy who intends to die.”

The story revolves around Violet Markey and Theodore Finch, two teenagers who meet under tragic circumstances. Violet is grieving the death of her sister and struggling with survivor’s guilt, while Finch battles with undiagnosed mental illnesses.

Despite their differences, the two form an unlikely bond as they embark on a school project to explore the wonders of Indiana. Through their shared experiences, they begin to heal and find solace in each other’s company. However, as Finch’s mental health deteriorates, Violet must confront her own fears and learn to live without relying solely on him.

In a bittersweet ending, the novel explores the profound impact one person can have on another, even in the midst of personal struggles.

Total Pages– 378 pages

Language- English

Goodreads Rating– 4.13

Amazon Rating– 4.6

If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 12 hours and 36 minutes to finish All the Bright Places by Jennifer Niven.

The Catcher in the Rye (1951)

by J.D. Salinger

The story is a first-person narrative that follows the experiences of Holden Caulfield, a disillusioned teenager who has been expelled from his boarding school. Over a period of three days, Holden recounts his adventures and thoughts while wandering around New York City.

Throughout the novel, Holden encounters various people, including his former classmates, a prostitute, his sister, and a former teacher. His interactions with these individuals, along with his reflections on his past, present, and future, shape the narrative.

As the story progresses, Holden’s mental and emotional state deteriorates. He struggles with loneliness, depression, and an inability to connect with others. Throughout the novel, he engages in behaviours that reflect his disillusionment, such as drinking, smoking, and engaging in reckless encounters.

The book explores the challenges of adolescence and the search for authenticity.

Total Pages– 234 pages

Language- English

Goodreads Rating– 3.80

Amazon Rating– 4.4

If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 7 hours and 48 minutes to finish The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger.

Turtles All the Way Down (2017)

by John Green

Another book by John Green in this list must not come as a surprise to you by now.

Both ‘The Perks of Being a Wallflower’ and ‘Turtles All the Way Down’ explore the experiences and emotions of teenagers navigating the complexities of adolescence. They delve into the inner lives of their respective protagonists as they grapple with mental health issues, relationships, self-discovery, and the challenges of growing up.

The novel by Green revolves around a 16-year-old girl named Aza Holmes who struggles with anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Aza’s life takes a turn when a local billionaire, Russell Pickett, goes missing, and there is a reward for any information about his whereabouts.

Aza, along with her best friend Daisy, becomes intrigued by the disappearance and decides to investigate in the hopes of claiming the reward. Aza also reconnects with Davis, Russell Pickett’s son, whom she knew from a summer camp years ago. As they spend time together, a romance begins to develop.

However, Aza’s mental health issues pose significant challenges in her relationships and daily life. She constantly battles intrusive thoughts and struggles to maintain control.

Total Pages– 290 pages

Language- English

Goodreads Rating– 3.89

Amazon Rating– 4.4

If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 9 hours and 40 minutes to finish Turtles All the Way Down by John Green.

Eleanor & Park (2012)

by Rainbow Rowell

A young adult novel set in the 1980s, the novel tells the story of two misfit teenagers, Eleanor Douglas and Park Sheridan, who develop a deep and unlikely connection.

Eleanor, a red-haired girl, starts at a new school where she becomes the target of bullying and faces a difficult home life. Eleanor’s unique style and outspoken personality make it difficult for her to fit in, but she catches the attention of Park, a half-Korean boy who is quiet and reserved.

As Eleanor and Park sit next to each other on the school bus, they initially have little interaction, but over time, they bond over their shared love for comic books and music. They begin to exchange mixtapes and comic books, finding solace in the connection they share. Slowly, they develop feelings for each other and embark on a secret romance.

However, both are smart enough to know first love almost never lasts, but brave and desperate enough to try.

Total Pages– 328 pages

Language- English

Goodreads Rating– 3.95

Amazon Rating– 4.4

If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 10 hours and 56 minutes to finish Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell.

We Were Liars (2014)

by E Lockhart

A suspenseful and thought-provoking novel that will keep you guessing until the very end, ‘We Were Liars’ follows the Sinclair family, an affluent and seemingly perfect family who spend their summers on a private island called Beechwood Island. The story is told from the perspective of Cadence Sinclair Eastman, a teenage girl who is part of the Sinclair family.

Cadence, along with her cousins Johnny and Mirren, and a family friend named Gat, form a close-knit group known as “The Liars.” They spend their summers on the island, bonding, exploring, and creating memories. However, during the fifteenth summer, an accident occurs that leaves Cadence with a head injury. She suffers from memory loss and debilitating migraines, and the events of that summer remain a hazy blur.

The narrative jumps between present-day and flashbacks to the summer of the accident. As Cadence unravels the truth, she realizes that her family, known for their wealth and privilege, is deeply flawed and harbours dark secrets.

The book explores the coming-of-age experiences of its teenage protagonist, delving into themes of identity, self-discovery, and the complexities of growing up. The story’s twists and turns culminate in a shocking and heartbreaking revelation that will leave you stunned.

Total Pages– 242 pages

Language- English

Goodreads Rating– 3.69

Amazon Rating– 4.3

If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 8 hours and 4 minutes to finish We Were Liars by E. Lockhart.

Speak (1999)

by Laurie Halse Anderson

A powerful young adult novel, ‘Speak’ delves into the life of a high school freshman named Melinda Sordino. The story revolves around her struggle to find her voice after a traumatic event that occurred at a summer party. Unable to express herself, Melinda starts her freshman year as a social pariah, shunned by her former friends who do not understand why she called the police at the party.

The truth is that Melinda was sexually assaulted at the party, but she is unable to vocalize what happened. She finds herself unable to speak about the incident, which causes her to withdraw from her peers and the world at large.

As the school year progresses, Melinda struggles to come to terms with what happened to her. She uses art as a means of expressing her emotions and begins to open up to a few people who offer support, including her art teacher and a new friend named Heather. Slowly, Melinda finds her voice and begins to speak up, not only about her own traumatic experience but also about the importance of speaking out against injustices and abuses.

Total Pages– 224 pages

Language- English

Goodreads Rating– 4.04

Amazon Rating– 4.6

If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 7 hours and 28 minutes to finish Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson.

Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine (2017)

by Gail Honeyman

In ‘Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine,’ Eleanor, a young woman in her thirties, leads a regimented and isolated existence, lacking in meaningful human connections. However, her meticulously structured world begins to unravel when she develops an unexpected friendship with Raymond, a kind IT technician from her workplace.

As Eleanor’s relationship with Raymond grows, she is forced to confront her traumatic past and confront the demons that have haunted her for years. Through a series of encounters, Eleanor learns the importance of human connection, empathy, and self-acceptance. Along her journey, she also discovers the power of friendship, love, and the healing potential of reaching out to others.

Total Pages– 390 pages

Language- English

Goodreads Rating– 4.24

Amazon Rating– 4.5

If you read at a standard rate, say 30 pages per hour, it will take you 13 hours and 0 minutes to finish Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine.

Conclusion to Books like The Perks of Being a Wallflower

And that concludes the list for books like The Perks of Being a Wallflower!

In summary, these carefully selected books that resonate with “The Perks of Being a Wallflower” offer a treasure trove of captivating coming-of-age narratives. Whether you’re an avid fan of youthful introspection or simply seeking your next literary adventure, these 11 books like The Perks of Being a Wallflower have something special to offer. With their profound themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the rollercoaster ride of adolescence, they invite you to explore the intricate and relatable journey of growing up. So, pick up one of these exceptional reads and lose yourself in the pages of stories that beautifully capture the essence of youth and the universal quest for belonging and understanding.

Until next time.

However, if you want more books like The Perks of Being a Wallflower beyond the list above, you should consider-

  1. Tell the Wolves I’m Home by Carol Rifka Brunt
  2. Ready Okay by Adam Cadre
  3. Please Don’t Kill the Freshman by Zoe Trope
  4. History of Love by Nicole Krauss
  5. Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close by Jonathan Safran Foer
  6. Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan
  7. Paper Castles by B. Fox
  8. I’ll Give You The Sun by Jandy Nelson
  9. The Spectacular Now by Tim Tharp
  10. Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
  11. Belzhar by Meg Wolitzer
  12. The Fault in our Stars by J. Green
  13. The inexplicable logic of my life by B.A.Saenz
  14. Me, Earl, and the Dying Girl by Jesse Andrews
  15. We Are The Ants by Shaun David Hutchinson
  16. In a million pieces by James Frey
  17. The Sledding hill by Chris crutcher
  18. Hairstyles of the Damned by Joe Meno
  19. Deadline by Chris Crutcher
  20. The shock of the fall by Nathan filer
  21. Go ask Alice
  22. I am the Messenger by Markus Zusak
  23. Hero type by Barry lyga
  24. Of mice and men by John Steinbeck