Books Like Josh Baxter Levels Up
Families who loved Josh Baxter Levels Up by Gavin Brown often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Josh Baxter Levels Up by Gavin Brown 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 to navigate a new environment or feeling like their academic and social challenges are an impossible game to win. It is especially helpful for kids who use video games as a shield or escape when real life feels too overwhelming or high stakes. The story follows Josh, a middle schooler who has moved frequently and decides to apply video game logic (XP, leveling up, and boss battles) to conquer his middle school problems after his mother confiscates his consoles. It addresses responsibility, resilience, and the transition from being a passive player to an active participant in one's own life. Written with humor and relatable gamer terminology, it is a perfect fit for middle grade readers (ages 8-12) who might resist traditional school stories but connect deeply with gaming culture. Parents will appreciate the healthy boundary-setting regarding screen time and the emphasis on internal motivation rather than external rewards.
