Theater kids…this one is for you. In honor of the release of opens in a new windowThe Naming Song by Jedediah Berry, we’re celebrating the magic of theater with a list of books that are PERFECT for former theater kids. Whether you were center stage or behind the scenes, the creativity, drama, and unforgettable characters of theater live on in these must-read stories. If you’re looking for a read that reminds you of the good ole’ theater days, this list is for you!
opens in a new windowThe Naming Song by Jedediah Berry
The Naming Song by Jedediah Berry is a perfect pick for former theater kids who understand the power of performance and storytelling. In a world where words have disappeared, a nameless courier joins a traveling theater troupe that uses their performances to remind people of the time when language still existed. The novel beautifully captures the essence of theater—bringing forgotten stories and emotions to life through creativity, expression, and imagination. For theater lovers, the idea of a troupe traveling to preserve culture and meaning through performance will hit close to home, echoing the timeless connection between art, words, and the stage.
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opens in a new window The First Bright Thing by J.R. Dawson
The First Bright Thing by J.R. Dawson is a magical and heartfelt journey that former theater kids will adore. Set in a traveling circus after World War I, this novel centers around Rin and her troupe of misfits who use their unique abilities to bring light to a world darkened by trauma. Much like theater, it’s about found family, believing in magic, and performing even in the face of adversity—a perfect read for anyone who’s ever felt the pull of the stage.
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opens in a new windowOne for My Enemy by Olivie Blake
One for My Enemy by Olivie Blake is perfect for former theater kids who love high-stakes drama and complex relationships. This modern-day fantasy, centered around two rival magical families in New York, feels like a Shakespearean tragedy come to life. With its intricate character dynamics, forbidden romances, and tense confrontations, the story mirrors the emotional intensity of the stage. The larger-than-life characters, combined with the suspenseful, almost theatrical plot twists, make this novel feel like it belongs on the boards of a grand theater.
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opens in a new windowA Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher
A Sorceress Comes to Call by T. Kingfisher is a delightful retelling of the classic tale The Goose Girl, perfect for former theater kids who love fresh takes on familiar stories. Kingfisher’s unique storytelling style brings a theatrical flair to this fairy tale, with moments of suspense, laughter, and magical intrigue. If you’re a fan of reimagined classics and love a good ensemble cast, this one will feel like stepping into a whimsical, magical play.
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opens in a new windowA Power Unbound by Freya Marske
A Power Unbound by Freya Marske is an ideal pick for former theater kids who crave drama, romance, and high-stakes magical intrigue. Set in an alternate Edwardian England, the novel is the third in the Last Binding series, and its grand sense of adventure and powerful character dynamics will resonate with those who love the theater. With its rich, layered relationships, tension-filled plot, and complex emotions, the book feels like a period drama unfolding on stage. Perfect for fans of historical fantasy with a theatrical twist!
