Families who loved The Berenstain Bears Play a Good Game by Jan Berenstain 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 starting organized sports and struggles with the high emotions of competition or the frustration of a losing streak. It is a perfect choice for the young athlete who tends to take the game a bit too seriously or reacts poorly when things do not go their way on the field. The story follows Brother and Sister Bear as they navigate a heated soccer match where tempers flare and the joy of the game is lost to aggression. Through the guidance of Coach Ursula, the cubs learn that fair play and respect for opponents are more important than the final score. Parents will appreciate how it uses a familiar, comforting setting to model healthy sportsmanship and emotional regulation for children aged 4 to 8. It provides a non-confrontational way to discuss behavior after a difficult practice or game.
