Curated Discovery

10 Books With the Same Chilling Vibe as Holding Up the Universe

If you were captivated by the emotional intensity and psychological depth of 'Holding Up the Universe,' these ten books will send chills down your spine with their raw exploration of mental health, trauma, and the human psyche.

Editor's Top Match

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Why it's the perfect match

Like 'Holding Up the Universe,' this novel delves deep into the complexities of mental health, trauma, and the challenges of adolescence with raw honesty and emotional intensity.

The Full Curated Collection

9 Expert Recommendations

It's Kind of a Funny Story
2
Deep Dive Available

It's Kind of a Funny Story

by Ned Vizzini

A teenager checks himself into a psychiatric ward and navigates the challenges of mental illness while finding unexpected connections.

All the Bright Places
3

All the Bright Places

by Jennifer Niven

Two teens struggling with their own mental health find solace in each other while dealing with grief and trauma.

Girl in Pieces
4
Deep Dive Available

Girl in Pieces

by Kathleen Glasgow

A self-harming teen attempts to rebuild her life after running away from her past and the demons that haunt her.

Wintergirls
5

Wintergirls

by Laurie Halse Anderson

A harrowing look at the world of eating disorders and self-destruction as a girl spirals into anorexia.

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer
6

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer

by Michelle Hodkin

A psychological thriller that blurs the lines between reality and hallucination as a teen deals with trauma and mental instability.

Fangirl
7

Fangirl

by Rainbow Rowell

A college freshman with severe anxiety navigates the challenges of social situations while finding her voice through writing.

The Impossible Knife of Memory
8

The Impossible Knife of Memory

by Laurie Halse Anderson

A teen struggles with her father's PTSD and the lasting effects of trauma on their family dynamic.

Scars
9

Scars

by Cheryl Rainfield

A powerful exploration of self-harm, abuse, and the journey toward healing and self-acceptance.

We Are Okay
10

We Are Okay

by Nina LaCour

A deeply emotional story about grief, loneliness, and the difficult process of healing after loss.

Slightly different vibe?

Explore adjacent cultural paths branching off from "Holding Up the Universe".