Families who loved Kristy and the Worst Kid Ever 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 when your child is struggling with a peer who seems intentionally difficult, defiant, or 'mean.' This story focuses on Kristy, an organized and rule-following leader, who meets her match in Lou McNally, a girl who refuses to follow any directions. It is an excellent resource for children who feel frustrated by the 'unfairness' of others' behavior or who need help developing the patience to look for the 'why' behind a person's actions. Written for middle-grade readers, it explores the bridge between initial judgment and eventual empathy. Parents will appreciate how it validates the frustration of dealing with a difficult peer while gently modeling how to set boundaries and find common ground.