Families who loved Goes to College 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 is hitting a wall with a specific school subject or feeling like they are falling behind their peers. It is particularly helpful for kids who mask their academic frustrations with a bad mood or a tough exterior. Judy Moody is struggling with 'Attitude Math' and is sent to a college-aged tutor, a situation that initially feels like a punishment but quickly turns into an exciting transformation. As Judy embraces the world of coffee shops, dorm life, and independence, she discovers that being a big kid is more about confidence than just knowing the right answers. This story normalizes the need for extra help while celebrating the growth that happens when a child steps outside their comfort zone. It is a lighthearted but meaningful look at overcoming academic shame and finding a renewed sense of self.