Families who loved Don't Trust the Cat by Kristen Tracy 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 with social dynamics or feels like they are losing themselves just to fit in with a friend group. It is an ideal choice for the perfectionist child who is afraid to make waves or the student who has become a target of subtle peer exclusion. Poppy is a fifth grader who prefers to follow the rules until a magical body swap with her cat, Mitten Man, forces her to see her life from a different perspective. While Mitten Man (in Poppy's body) brings a bold and unapologetic cat attitude to middle school, Poppy (in the cat's body) must navigate the physical world with new vulnerability. This story tackles bullying, self-advocacy, and the importance of healthy boundaries in friendships. It is perfect for children aged 8 to 12 who are entering the complex social waters of upper elementary or middle school.