Families who loved New Tricks for Rascal by Holly Webb 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 the frustration of a new hobby or skill that isn't coming as easily as they hoped. It is a perfect choice for the young reader who feels like giving up when things get messy or complicated. In this story, Ellie is determined to train her energetic puppy, Rascal, for an agility class, but she soon learns that progress is rarely a straight line. Through gentle humor and relatable setbacks, the book explores themes of patience, resilience, and the importance of bonding over perfection. Written for the 6 to 9 age range, it serves as a wonderful mirror for children navigating the transition into more structured activities. Parents will appreciate how it models a healthy growth mindset, showing that success is found in the effort and the relationship rather than just the trophy.