Families who loved Horse Trouble by Kristin Varner 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 the awkward transition into puberty, specifically regarding body image or feeling like they do not fit the typical mold of their peers. Horse Trouble follows twelve-year-old Kate as she navigates the steep learning curve of horseback riding while dealing with mean girls at the stable and her own physical insecurities. It is a deeply relatable look at the middle school years, focusing on the resilience required to keep trying when you feel clumsy or out of place. This graphic novel is perfect for children ages 8 to 12 who are learning that passion for a hobby can be complicated by social pressures and self-doubt. It provides a comforting reminder that falling down, both literally and figuratively, is a normal part of growing up.