Families who loved Aven Green Music Machine by Dusti Bowling often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent should reach for this book when their child is ready to give up on a new hobby after one afternoon of practice or feels frustrated by physical limitations. It is a perfect choice for children who struggle with the gap between their high ambitions and their current skill level. The story follows Aven Green, a third grader born without arms, as she navigates the trial and error of finding the right musical instrument for the school talent show. While Aven's disability is a central part of her identity, the book focuses on universal themes of grit, the importance of family support, and the humor found in life's awkward moments. It is an upbeat, secular chapter book that models how to handle frustration without losing your sense of self. Parents will appreciate how Aven's parents encourage her independence while providing the resources she needs to see what is possible.