Families who loved Jingle Bells, Batman Smells! (P.S. So Does May.) by Barbara Park 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 with a classmate who gets under their skin or when they feel the pressure of being 'nice' during the holiday season. It is a perfect tool for discussing the complicated feelings of spite and the internal battle between getting revenge and doing the right thing. Junie B. Jones is a relatable, imperfect protagonist who deals with a 'tattletale' rival named May. When Junie B. draws May's name for Secret Santa, she is faced with a moral dilemma: should she buy a lump of coal or a real gift? This story captures the authentic voice of an elementary schooler navigating social frustration and the eventual, hard-won satisfaction of choosing kindness over pettiness. It is ideal for ages 6 to 9, providing a safe space to laugh at and learn from big, messy emotions.
