Families who loved The Flyaway Girls by Julia Lawrinson 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 the sting of being outperformed by a peer despite their own hard work. It is an ideal choice for the young athlete or student who feels their identity is tied to being 'the best' and finds themselves spiraling into jealousy when a newcomer makes success look easy. Chelsea is a dedicated gymnast whose world is upended when Telia, a naturally gifted and genuinely kind girl, joins her club. As Chelsea navigates the pressure of high level sports, she must also face shifting friendships at school and complicated family dynamics at home. This story offers a realistic look at the 'ugly' feelings of envy while providing a roadmap for developing resilience and finding self worth outside of achievement. It is a grounded, relatable narrative for the 9 to 12 age group that validates emotional complexity without being preachy.