Families who loved Allergic to the Great Wall, the Forbidden Palace, and Other Tourist Attractions by Lenore Look 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 child is facing a major transition, a first trip, or struggles with paralyzing anxiety in new environments. Alvin Ho is a relatable hero for any child who feels like the world is a bit too loud and scary. In this installment, Alvin travels to China, forced to confront his fears of everything from foreign germs to ancient landmarks. Look uses humor to normalize the physical and mental experience of anxiety, making it a safe space for children to laugh at their own worries. It is an excellent choice for second to fourth graders, providing a gentle bridge into conversations about bravery, heritage, and the fact that it is okay to be scared as long as you keep moving forward. The story beautifully balances the weight of a child's phobias with the warmth of a supportive, multigenerational Chinese-American family.
