Families who loved Born to Run by Jason Walz 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 feels limited by their physical circumstances or feels like their unique way of navigating the world is a weakness rather than a strength. In this high-octane graphic novel, Star is a young girl living in a dystopian future where she must participate in a dangerous space race to win her freedom. Because of a physical disability, Star relies on a specialized exo-suit, making her journey as much about self-reliance as it is about planetary survival. This story is an excellent choice for middle-grade readers because it uses a thrilling sci-fi setting to explore deep themes of justice and personal identity. It is perfect for parents who want to encourage a growth mindset and discuss how being different can actually lead to innovative problem-solving and true resilience.