Families who loved Judy Moody Declares Independence by Megan McDonald 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 starts lobbying for a later bedtime, a bigger allowance, or more 'rights' in the household. As children enter middle childhood, the drive for autonomy often leads to friction between their desire for independence and their actual level of maturity. This story follows Judy as she translates lessons from the American Revolution into a personal quest for freedom, complete with her own declaration and a 'Boston Tub Party' protest. Megan McDonald captures the hilarious and relatable drama of a third grader trying to prove she is a 'grown-up.' While Judy starts by demanding more, the story beautifully illustrates that true independence is earned through responsibility and quick thinking during family challenges. It is a lighthearted way to discuss how freedoms and duties go hand in hand without being overly didactic, making it perfect for kids aged 6 to 9.
