Books Like Play-by-Play
Families who loved Play-by-Play by Mel Glenn often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Play-by-Play by Mel Glenn 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 struggling with a changing friendship or feels pressured by a peer's sudden, intense competitive streak. It specifically addresses the confusion and hurt that happens when a best friend starts prioritizing winning over having fun, providing a safe space to discuss social dynamics and boundary setting. The story follows fourth graders Jeremy and Lloyd, whose lifelong bond is tested when Lloyd becomes obsessed with soccer. As Lloyd's personality shifts from supportive friend to aggressive competitor, Jeremy must decide how much of his own comfort he is willing to sacrifice to keep the friendship alive. This realistic school story is perfect for children ages 8 to 11 who are beginning to navigate the complex social hierarchies of middle elementary school and need to see that it is okay to stand up for their own needs.
