Families who loved Rico the Iguana: Finding Brave Inside by Bastiaan Leigh 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 facing a new challenge and feels paralyzed by the physical sensation of fear. Whether it is a first day at school, a daunting playground climb, or just a day where the world feels too big, Rico the Iguana provides a gentle mirror for those big, shaky feelings. The story follows a small iguana who believes he lacks the natural bravery of his peers, only to discover that courage is not the absence of fear, but the choice to move forward even when your tail is trembling. It is a perfect choice for children aged 4 to 8 who struggle with anxiety or self-doubt. Through Rico's journey, parents can help children externalize their worries and recognize their own inner strength. It effectively models how to navigate scary moments with resilience and heart.
