What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedThe Making of Dr. Truelove
Derrick Barnes · Book · 2008
If you loved The Making of Dr. Truelove, start with Love, Victor (Elizabeth Berger, 2020) — a series on the same thread. Below: 4 films, 4 series and 2 podcasts, each matched to The Making of Dr. Truelove across media.
If you loved the way Diego navigates his insecurities through alter egos and unsolicited advice, you will appreciate these stories of teenage reinvention.
Films on the same thread
Love, Simon
Greg Berlanti · Film · 2018
Shares 2 threads with The Making of Dr. Truelove: Self-Discovery, Teen Romance.
Like The Making of Dr. Truelove, this story explores the complexities of anonymous online communication and the vulnerability required to reveal one's true self to a romantic interest.
Truly Naked
Muriel d'Ansembourg · Film · 2026
Explores: sexual awakening, voyeurism, social anxiety.
This film mirrors the social anxiety and personal growth found in The Making of Dr. Truelove, showing how stepping out of one's comfort zone leads to authentic human connection.
Driver's Ed
Film · 2026
Shares a thread with The Making of Dr. Truelove: coming-of-age.
The desperate, humorous quest to win back an ex-girlfriend in this road trip comedy echoes the central motivation that drives Diego to create Dr. Truelove in his own story.
Crazy, Stupid, Love.
Glenn Ficarra · Film · 2011
Shares a thread with The Making of Dr. Truelove: self-discovery.
Just as Diego uses a persona to manage his insecurities, the characters here rely on complex schemes and reinvention to navigate the painful aftermath of their own romantic unraveling.
Series on the same thread
Sex Education
Laurie Nunn · Series · 2019
Shares a thread with The Making of Dr. Truelove: Self-Discovery.
Otis and Diego both occupy the role of the reluctant relationship expert, using their unique circumstances to provide guidance to peers while struggling with their own teenage angst.
Love, Victor
Elizabeth Berger · Series · 2020
Shares a thread with The Making of Dr. Truelove: Self-discovery.
This series captures the same spirit of self-discovery present in The Making of Dr. Truelove, focusing on how a young person navigates complex social dynamics to define their identity.
Never Have I Ever
Mindy Kaling · Series · 2020
Shares a thread with The Making of Dr. Truelove: Self-Discovery.
The protagonist's messy, relatable desire to reinvent herself after a period of personal turmoil will resonate deeply with fans of the off-beat, character-driven humor in The Making of Dr. Truelove.
Off Campus
Gina Fattore · Series · 2026
Shares a thread with The Making of Dr. Truelove: Coming-of-age.
The reliance on a strategic plan to secure a romantic interest mirrors the approach Diego takes in The Making of Dr. Truelove, blending calculated moves with genuine emotional healing.
Podcasts on the same thread
The Hook Up
Podcast
Explores: dating dilemmas, modern relationships, sex positivity.
If you enjoyed the advice-column format of The Making of Dr. Truelove, this podcast offers a real-world look at the dating dilemmas and relationship questions that Diego tries to solve.
Project Loving Myself
Podcast
Shares a thread with The Making of Dr. Truelove: self-discovery.
This podcast explores the same themes of self-love and internal growth that Diego must confront after his initial heartbreak, providing a deeper look at the journey toward self-acceptance.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is The Making of Dr. Truelove about a teenager?
Yes, The Making of Dr. Truelove centers on Diego, a sixteen-year-old boy who creates a smooth alter ego named Dr. Truelove to win back his ex-girlfriend after their breakup caused by his insecurities.
What is the primary motivation for the protagonist in The Making of Dr. Truelove?
The primary motivation for Diego in The Making of Dr. Truelove is his desire to reconcile with his ex-girlfriend, Roxy, after their relationship ends due to his personal insecurities.
Who is the alter ego featured in The Making of Dr. Truelove?
In The Making of Dr. Truelove, the protagonist Diego invents an alter ego called Dr. Truelove, who functions as a sex and relationship e-columnist based on the advice of his best friend.
When was The Making of Dr. Truelove published?
The Making of Dr. Truelove, written by Derrick Barnes, was published in 2008. The novel follows the story of a teen boy who uses an alter ego to navigate his relationship struggles.