Families who loved Penelope Crumb Is Mad at the Moon by Shawn K. Stout 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 grappling with the public sting of embarrassment or the feeling that they are the only ones failing at social navigation. It is perfect for children who are sensitive to peer dynamics and may over-analyze their own awkward moments. Penelope Crumb is a quirky, authentic young girl having a truly terrible week, from showing up in a costume on the wrong day to being forced into a square dance with a boy she finds repulsive. As she discovers that her partner is just as mortified to be with her, she learns that social anxiety is often a two-way street. This story beautifully handles the heavy weights of shame and loneliness with a light, humorous touch. Parents will appreciate the strong bond Penelope shares with her grandfather, who provides a safe space for her to process her big feelings. It is an ideal transition for readers who have finished Junie B. Jones but still need the relatable, slightly messy emotional honesty of a protagonist who doesn't always get it right on the first try.
