Families who loved Lola Levine: Drama Queen by Monica Brown 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 facing a new challenge that feels bigger than their usual confidence, especially if they are grappling with performance anxiety or the fear of looking foolish in front of peers. While Lola Levine is usually a fearless soccer player who loves getting her hands dirty, she is blindsided by intense stage fright during her school play auditions. This relatable story follows Lola as she navigates the disappointment of a minor role and learns how to channel her nervous energy into something creative. Lola's journey is anchored by her supportive family and her unique bicultural heritage. The story beautifully illustrates how a child can be many things at once: a competitive athlete, a sensitive artist, and a proud 'Jewina' (Jewish and Latina). Parents will appreciate the way Lola seeks wisdom from her grandmother and the realistic, healthy way the family discusses anxiety and resilience. It is an ideal bridge for early readers moving into chapter books who need to see that even 'fierce' kids get scared sometimes.