Families who loved Jenny and the Tennis Nut by Janet Schulman often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
You would reach for this book when you notice your child is performing an activity for your benefit rather than their own, or if you suspect they are hiding a hidden talent because it does not match the family's traditional interests. Jenny's father is a 'tennis nut' who is determined to pass his passion on to his daughter, but Jenny struggles to find joy on the court. While she wants to please her dad, she eventually finds the courage to show him that her true heart and skill lie in gymnastics. This gentle chapter book is perfect for children ages 6 to 9 who are navigating the pressure of extracurricular expectations. It models how to have a difficult conversation with a loved one and emphasizes that being 'good' at something is most rewarding when you actually enjoy doing it. It is a wonderful tool for parents to signal that they value their child's unique identity over any specific sport or hobby.