Families who loved Kristy and the Walking Disaster by Ann M. Martin 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 if your child is struggling with the pressure of competition or feels discouraged by a lack of natural talent in a group setting. It provides a refreshing look at leadership that prioritizes inclusion and fun over the scoreboard. The story follows Kristy Thomas as she organizes a neighborhood softball team for younger children, including the accident-prone Jackie Rodowsky. Through humorous mishaps and a challenging match against a more polished team, it explores how to maintain confidence and team spirit even when you are the underdog. It is a perfect choice for 8 to 12 year olds navigating the social dynamics of sports and the vulnerability of their first middle school crushes.