Families who loved Claudia and the New Girl by Ann M. Martin 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 struggling to balance a new, intense interest with their existing friend group. It speaks directly to the 'growing pains' of identity that occur when a child begins to develop a sense of self outside of their established social circles. The story follows Claudia Kishi, a creative middle schooler who meets a sophisticated new student, Ashley, who pushes her to take her art more seriously. As Claudia spends more time in the studio and less time with her long-time friends in the Baby-Sitters Club, she faces the difficult reality of peer jealousy and the pressure to choose. It is a gentle, realistic exploration of loyalty and self-discovery for children aged 8 to 12. Parents will appreciate how it validates the excitement of finding a mentor while modeling the importance of clear communication when friendships feel strained.