Families who loved Josephine Wants to Dance by Jackie French 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 a dream that feels 'out of character' or when they are facing discouragement from peers or siblings about their interests. It is a perfect choice for the child who marches to the beat of their own drum but feels the sting of being told they do not fit in. Josephine the kangaroo is a dreamer who refuses to accept that her anatomy or her species should limit her potential. The story follows Josephine as she ignores her brother's skepticism and the rigid expectations of the 'bush' to pursue ballet. With whimsical illustrations and a lighthearted tone, the book explores themes of perseverance, self-identity, and the joy of finding where you belong. It is developmentally ideal for children aged 4 to 8, providing a safe space to discuss why it is important to try new things even when others say you should just stick to what you know.