Families who loved The One in the Middle Is the Green Kangaroo by Judy Blume 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 middle child starts feeling lost in the shuffle of family life or expresses frustration about hand-me-downs and shared spaces. It is an ideal choice for the child who feels like they are caught between a capable older sibling and a needy younger one, often resulting in them feeling invisible or misunderstood by their parents. The story follows Freddy Dissel, a second-grader who is tired of being the one in the middle. After a series of frustrations at home, including a physical spat with his sister and feeling ignored by his brother, Freddy finds a way to stand out by auditioning for a school play. This classic Judy Blume story explores themes of self-confidence and identity, showing children that they can find their own unique spotlight outside of their family role. It is a comforting, realistic read for children ages 6 to 9 who are navigating sibling rivalry and the search for their own special talent.
