Families who loved ChupaCarter and the Haunted Piñata by George Lopez 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 finally feeling settled in a new environment but starts to experience anxiety that their newfound friendships or stability might be taken away. It is a perfect choice for kids who use humor to mask their insecurities or those who feel like 'outsiders' due to their interests or background. The story follows 12-year-old Jorge and his supernatural best friend, Carter the Chupacabra, as they face a spooky, fire-starting haunted piñata. While the plot is full of slapstick humor and urban legends, the heart of the book explores the deep fear of losing one's community and the lengths we go to for the people we love. It is age-appropriate for middle-grade readers, offering a secular, fast-paced mystery that celebrates Latino culture and the power of teamwork. Parents will appreciate how it balances spooky thrills with a hopeful message about belonging.
