It can be challenging to grow up with step siblings. You might not always get along or see eye to eye. But, at the end of the day, they’re family. If you’re looking for some books to help you understand your step siblings (or help them understand you), here are some of the best:
1. “The War That Saved My Life” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
This historical fiction novel follows the story of Ada, a young girl with a clubfoot who is forced to evacuate London during World War II. She’s sent to the countryside, where she meets her new stepbrother, Jamie. The two bond over their shared love of horses and Ada starts to learn what it means to be part of a family.
2. “My Big Fat Zombie Goldfish” by Mo O’Hara
This humorous chapter book series is perfect for reluctant readers. It follows the story of Frank, a goldfish who is turned into a zombie. His owner, Tom, then has to find a way to protect Frank (and the rest of the goldfish) from becoming zombies themselves. Along the way, Tom and Frank become stepbrothers when their parents get married.
3. “The Stepsister Scheme” by Jim C. Hines
This fairytale retelling is a hilarious take on “Cinderella.” When Ella’s father remarries, she gains two new stepsisters who are determined to make her life a living hell. But Ella is not the type of girl to take this lying down. She comes up with a plan to get even with her stepsisters, but it might cost her more than she’s bargained for.
4. “The Other Half of Life” by Kim Ablon Whitney
This novel is based on the true story of the SS St. Louis, a ship carrying Jewish refugees that was turned away from the United States in 1939. The ship ended up going back to Europe, where many of the passengers were killed in Nazi concentration camps. The story follows two step-siblings, Eva and Stefan, who are among the passengers on the ship.
5. “The Truth as Told by Mason Buttle” by Leslie Connor
Mason Buttle is a big kid with an even bigger heart. When his best friend, Benny, dies, Mason is determined to find out what happened. Benny’s death is just one of many secrets that Mason is keeping, but it’s the one that might finally help him come to terms with his own painful past.