Families who loved Revenge of the Loser by H. N. Kowitt 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 school social hierarchies or feeling eclipsed by a seemingly perfect peer. It provides a relatable, humorous lens through which to view the common middle school experiences of envy and the pressure to be cool. The story follows Danny Shine as he navigates the arrival of a new student who threatens his social standing, leading Danny to make some regrettable choices fueled by jealousy. It is an ideal pick for children aged 8 to 12 who enjoy illustrated diaries or graphic novels. Through Danny's mistakes, the book offers a safe space to discuss why we compare ourselves to others and how to take accountability when our insecurities hurt those around us. It normalizes the messier feelings of growing up without being overly didactic.