Families who loved Madame President by Nancy Krulik often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is experiencing the first painful fissures of a childhood friendship or the daunting transition to middle school. It speaks directly to the 'odd man out' feeling that occurs when a best friend suddenly prioritizes popularity and a new social circle over long-standing loyalty. The story follows Katie Carew as she navigates her first days of middle school, only to find her best friend Mimi has changed her personality and interests to fit in with the 'cool' crowd. This book is developmentally perfect for ages 8 to 12, offering a realistic but humorous look at self-discovery and the courage required to stand up for oneself when social dynamics shift. It normalizes the grief of losing a friendship while empowering kids to find their own path and new connections.