Favourite books about difference, acceptance and bullying for teens

This book explores why some people bully, why others are bullied and what you can do to change things

When a terrorist attack happens at a local concert, Muslim schoolgirl Aaliyah finds herself and her family the target of racist bullying and abuse. Can she fight back against the tide of hatred?

This beautiful book is written in verse and captures 13-year-old Kasienka’s emotions and experiences perfectly

Connor’s mum has cancer and life is changing. There is the nightmare, then there is school, where people avoid him, or persecute him. And then there is the immense, mythic Monster.

Jaspal, born and brought up in Leicester, is 14 when his father moves the family to rural Nottinghamshire for a ​‘better life’. However, they (and their shop) soon become targets for racial abuse, hate mail and threats.

Wilson skilfully combines an approachable and involving teenage story with a debate about true friendship, sexual identity and growing up.

Bali Rai once again hits home with a current and unfortunately necessary book. As always, the characters are fully fleshed out, the dialogue both believable and accessible, and the plot well paced and worthy of its subject matter.

Coram Boy is the story of Toby, saved from an African ship as a child, and Aaron, the illegitimate son of the heir to a great estate.

When Millie’s best friend Lauren is mortified by an Instagram post, Millie makes a vlog to cheer her up. Rae Earl has a real talent for writing a charming and funny story that handles life problems particularly well.

In this upfront and accessible book, Juno Dawson tackles all things mental health. Packed with practical advice, guidance from clinical psychologist Dr Olivia Hewitt and some humorous reassurance.

Written in free verse, this dual narrative story goes straight to the heart of Jess and Nicu’s friendship, exploring their feelings with immediacy and heart. Readers will be rooting for their star-crossed romance from the beginning.

Tess starts to question herself and her life when things start to fall apart, although she finds solace in a bright orange goldfish.

There are always two sides to every story – who is making the rules, the young people or the adults?

Dante is waiting for the postman. It’s ​‘A’ level results day and he has high hopes, but a knock on the door brings an old girlfriend and some news that will change his plans for good.

Lis London had hoped that a move to the country would allow her to escape not only the bullies but also her recurring nightmares