Families who loved Medusa Jones by Ross Collins 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 feeling like the odd one out at school or is struggling with the pressure to fit in with the popular crowd. Medusa Jones is a clever, mythological twist on the middle school experience, following a young Gorgon who is bullied by the 'cool' kids, like the beautiful and mean Perseus and Cassandra. Through a school camping trip gone wrong, the story explores how the very traits that make us feel different or 'monstrous' can become our greatest strengths when others are in need. This is a fantastic choice for readers aged 7 to 10 who enjoy humor and light fantasy. It validates the frustration of being misunderstood by peers while modeling how to maintain integrity and find true friendship. By reimagining Greek myths in a modern school setting, it provides a safe, metaphorical space to discuss bullying, self-esteem, and the importance of looking past appearances.