Families who loved I Only Surf Online by Val Priebe 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 expresses anxiety about trying physical activities or feels safer behind a computer screen than in the 'real world.' Carmen is a tech-savvy girl who prefers digital surfing to the physical kind, but a school trip forces her to step outside her comfort zone and onto a surfboard. Through her journey, the story addresses the fear of failure and the social pressure of being 'the one who can't do it.' This chapter book is ideal for ages 8 to 12, especially those who struggle with a perfectionist streak or screen-time dependency. It provides a gentle, realistic roadmap for moving from 'I can't' to 'I'll try,' emphasizing that bravery isn't the absence of fear, but the willingness to wobble and fall until you find your balance. Parents will appreciate how it validates digital interests while encouraging physical exploration.