11 Books About Not Fitting In But Still Finding Your Place in the World

Published by Likewise | Feb 10, 2025 Explore a diverse range of compelling stories featuring characters who feel out of place but ultimately find their niche in the world, in this list of 11 remarkable novels.

Convenience Store Woman

Keiko Furukura's journey through societal expectations is a compelling narrative about a woman who thrives in the structured environment of a convenience store. For eighteen years, her job at “Smile Mart” becomes her solace amidst the chaos of family pressures and societal norms demanding a traditional life. Author Sayaka Murata intricately explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the often harsh reality of conforming to societal expectations, making this novel a fresh and delightful read for those feeling like outsiders.

Drive Your Plow Over the Bones of the Dead

Winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature, Olga Tokarczuk’s novel is a deeply provocative exploration of life in rural Poland, centered around Janina, an eccentric woman whose affinity for astrology and animals often puts her at odds with her community. As a series of deaths unfold, Janina's isolation grows, prompting her to engage with the investigation and challenge the perceptions of those around her. This literary murder mystery poses contemplative questions about sanity and belonging, making it a chilling yet enlightening read.

White Oleander

In White Oleander, Janet Fitch takes readers through the harrowing journey of Astrid, a girl who navigates the troubled waters of various foster homes following her mother’s incarceration for a crime of passion. Each new home presents unique obstacles that challenge her identity and desires, making her search for belonging all the more poignant. This novel is a raw and heartbreaking exploration of resilience and self-discovery against insurmountable odds.

Demon Copperhead

Barbara Kingsolver's Demon Copperhead is a modern reflection of Charles Dickens's David Copperfield, set in southern Appalachia. This tale follows the life of a boy, nicknamed Demon, who grapples with the harsh realities of life, including poverty and neglect. Through humor and heartbreak, Kingsolver creates a rich tapestry of resilience and the quest for identity in a world that often overlooks the marginalized. Her work resonates deeply, shedding light on social issues while crafting a compelling narrative.

The People We Keep

The People We Keep by Allison Larkin is an evocative coming-of-age story that finds April Sawicki searching for her place in a world that often feels foreign. Living in a motorhome and working at a diner, her path is filled with challenges as she ultimately embarks on a journey of self-discovery and artistic expression. The novel’s lyrical narrative acknowledges the beauty of forming connections, even when one feels lost, reinforcing the idea that home is built through relationships.

Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine

Gail Honeyman’s debut novel, Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine, introduces us to Eleanor, a quirky and isolated woman whose life transforms when she experiences genuine human connection. As her story unfolds, we witness her journey through social awkwardness and personal growth. With themes of loneliness and the power of friendship at its core, it is a humorous and uplifting exploration of what it means to be truly fine and the importance of opening one’s heart to others.

Stargirl

Newbery Medalist Jerry Spinelli’s Stargirl is a touching portrayal of individuality amidst peer pressure. The titular character, Stargirl, shines brightly in her unique ways, capturing the attention of her classmates—until their admiration turns to hostility. This poignant story illuminates the struggle for acceptance that many young adults face while celebrating nonconformity and the beauty in being oneself. Its timeless message resonates across generations.

Circe

Madeline Miller's Circe revitalizes the mythological sorceress' tale, portraying her struggles with self-identity and power. Cast away by Zeus and forced to find her place in a world hostile to women and magic, Circe learns to embrace her unique gifts while navigating her relationships with gods and mortals alike. This novel is not just a retelling of mythology; it’s a celebration of feminine strength and resilience that resonates with readers looking for empowerment in their own lives.

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches

Sue Lynn Tan's enchanted novel The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches delights readers with its charming story of Mika Moon. As one of the few witches in Britain, she remains an outsider, concealing her magic until an unexpected opportunity leads her to teach young witches about their powers. In this whimsical tale about love and family, Mika learns the significance of belonging, ultimately discovering that her true home lies where her heart is.

The House in the Cerulean Sea

TJ Klune’s The House in the Cerulean Sea is a heartwarming story about Linus Baker, who is assigned to investigate a magical orphanage filled with extraordinary children. As Linus forms unexpected relationships with those he is sent to observe, the story unfolds into a gentle exploration of family, love, and acceptance in a world often defined by secrecy and exclusion. This novel’s powerful message of finding your place in the world resonates beautifully.

The Blue Castle

Finally, L.M. Montgomery's The Blue Castle tells the story of Valancy Stirling, who struggles under the weight of her family's expectations until one fateful letter propels her into a journey of self-assertion. Valancy’s emancipation from conformity is filled with humor, adventure, and romance, ultimately uncovering her true desires and a love that leads her to the storied Blue Castle of her dreams. Montgomery’s timeless tale continues to inspire readers to find their own way.