Families who loved Rebecca and Ana by Jacqueline Dembar Greene 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 to share the limelight or navigating the complex feelings of 'competitive empathy' that arise when a sibling or friend needs extra help. It is a nuanced look at a young girl who truly wants to be a good person but feels the sting of jealousy when her own special talents are overshadowed by a newcomer's needs. Set in early 20th-century New York, the story follows Rebecca as she welcomes her cousin Ana, an immigrant from Russia. While Rebecca is eager to help Ana adjust, she faces a personal crisis when they are paired to perform together. It is an excellent choice for children ages 8 to 12 who are learning to balance individual ambition with family loyalty and community support. Parents will appreciate the historical context and the realistic depiction of a child's internal struggle between being 'the helper' and being 'the star.'