Families who loved First Prize for the Worst Witch by Jill Murphy 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 feels like they can never quite get things right or is struggling with the pressure of being perfect. It is especially resonant for kids who are kind and well-meaning but find themselves constantly in trouble due to clumsiness or poor executive functioning. As the finale of the beloved series, the story follows Mildred Hubble as she tries to overcome her reputation as the worst witch to win the title of Head Girl. While her rival, Ethel, plays by the rules but lacks heart, Mildred faces a moral dilemma: follow the rules to win the prize or break them to save suffering circus animals. It is a gentle, humorous, and deeply validating story for the elementary years that emphasizes that integrity, compassion, and standing up for the vulnerable are the true marks of success. Parents will appreciate how it models that a messy, mistake-prone life can still be one of high character.