Families who loved Taking Charge by Carin Greenberg Baker 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 work alongside a peer they dislike, or when they are showing curiosity about social issues like homelessness. Taking Charge follows Lee as he is forced to partner with his rival, Kevin, to lead a karate program at a local shelter. It is a grounded story about looking past personal grudges to serve a larger purpose. Through Lee's journey, children see how shared goals can bridge gaps between people. The story handles the reality of housing insecurity with dignity and empathy, making it an excellent choice for middle-grade readers who are developing their social conscience. It models how to be a leader by setting an example, even when it feels uncomfortable or unfair.