Books Like Almost Flying
Families who loved Almost Flying by Jake Maia Arlow often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Almost Flying by Jake Maia Arlow often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your middle schooler is navigating the dual anxieties of social belonging and a blossoming first crush. It is particularly resonant for children who feel they are on the cusp of a big internal change but need the 'courage of a roller coaster rider' to face it. The story follows Dalia, a budding amusement park enthusiast, on a summer road trip that serves as a literal and metaphorical journey of self-discovery. As Dalia navigates her Jewish identity, a new blended family dynamic, and her realization that she is queer, the book provides a safe space for readers to explore their own evolving identities. It is a warm, secularly-grounded story that balances the thrill of adventure with the vulnerability of coming out. Parents will appreciate the healthy modeling of friendships and the realistic portrayal of pre-teen nerves, making it an excellent choice for fostering self-confidence and normalization of LGBTQ+ identities in a middle-grade context.
