Books Like Restart

R. J. Palacio

Like Restart, it follows a young character trying to fit into a school where people see him differently. Its warm, honest voice and focus on kindness and empathy will feel familiar to Korman's fans.

Louis Sachar

Holes has a quirky, funny narrator and a plot that gradually reveals how past choices shape the present. Readers who enjoyed Chase's slow rediscovery of his own life will appreciate its clever structure.

Ali Benjamin

A middle-grade story about a grieving girl searching for answers, with a quiet tone and emotional depth. Readers who valued Restart's thoughtful look at change and regret may connect with its gentle pacing.

Mac Barnett, John Jory

A playful school story full of pranks, rivalries and a sharp sense of humour. Readers who enjoyed the comic energy of Restart's school setting will find its lively, fast-paced fun appealing.

Kelly Yang

A middle-grade story with humour and a strong sense of justice, centred on a kid who works hard to do the right thing. Its warmth and determination echo the heart at the core of Restart.

Gordon Korman

Another Korman novel with a clever, fast-moving plot and a likeable young protagonist. Fans of Restart's witty voice and schoolyard drama will find the same comic timing here.

Lois Lowry

A thoughtful story about a boy who uncovers hidden truths about the world around him and himself. Readers drawn to Restart's questions about identity and memory will find its ideas equally absorbing.

Jeanne DuPrau

A mystery in which young characters piece together a buried past and search for a way out. Readers who enjoyed Chase's puzzle of what he has lost will like its steady, suspenseful unravelling.

Gary Paulsen

A survival story told through a single young narrator who must rebuild himself from nothing. Its focus on resilience and inner change suits readers who appreciated Restart's look at personal growth.

Jacqueline Davies

A sibling rivalry story set around a business scheme that spirals out of control. Its everyday school and home setting and sharp, funny characters will suit fans of Restart's relatable middle-grade world.

Jeff Kinney

A humorous, illustrated look at school life through a narrator who is often his own worst critic. Readers who enjoyed Restart's comedy about a flawed main character will find plenty to laugh at.

Jason Reynolds

A fast, emotionally charged middle-grade novel about a boy trying to reinvent himself after a difficult past. Its themes of change, courage and belonging make it a strong next read for Restart fans.