Families who loved Painting the Game by Patricia MacLachlan 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 the weight of a parent's success or when they are struggling to define their own identity separate from a family legacy. It is perfect for children who are 'reluctant experts' in a field because a parent excels at it, or for families navigating the seasonal absence of a parent due to work. Lucy is the daughter of a professional baseball player, and while she shares his love for the game, she hides her talent for pitching because she fears the comparison. This quiet, lyrical story explores the pressure of expectations and the bravery it takes to be oneself. It is a gentle but profound read for children ages 8 to 12, focusing on the internal landscape of a young girl trying to reconcile her love for her father with her need to be her own person. Parents will appreciate the way it validates a child's need for privacy and their right to their own achievements.