Families who loved The Most Evil, Friendly Villain Ever by Lawrence David 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 to navigate the confusing grey areas of social dynamics, particularly when a new friend seems charming but leaves them feeling unsettled or manipulated. It is a perfect choice for the elementary student who is beginning to question the true meaning of loyalty and how to spot 'frenemy' behavior before it escalates. The story follows Michael, whose life is upended when a charismatic new neighbor named Kent moves in. Kent is polite to adults and seemingly the perfect best friend, but he secretly harbors villainous tendencies that put Michael in awkward and increasingly difficult positions. This humorous chapter book addresses complex themes of trust, peer pressure, and the courage required to set boundaries. It provides a safe, low-stakes environment to discuss how to handle people who use kindness as a mask for unkind intentions.
