Families who loved Popped Star by Rhode Montijo 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 a secret or feels like they have to hide a part of themselves to fit in at home. Popped Star follows Gabby Gomez, a girl who is literally and figuratively stretched thin as she balances her life as the superhero Gum Girl with her desire to be honest with her family. It is a vibrant, funny adventure that explores the heavy lifting of integrity and the courage it takes to tell the truth. Through the introduction of Ninja-Rina, a rival who is closer to Gabby's size, the story tackles the complexities of peer relationships and accountability. Parents will appreciate the way it weaves Spanish and English together, providing organic cultural representation while maintaining a high-energy, superhero pace. It is an ideal choice for early elementary readers who love humor but are also beginning to navigate the tricky waters of personal responsibility and family dynamics.