Families who loved The Four Dragons by Elisabetta Gnone often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent would reach for this book when their middle-schooler is beginning to navigate the complex social dynamics of a new friend group or feels overwhelmed by the increasing weight of personal responsibilities. It is an ideal choice for a child who feels like an outsider or is struggling to balance their private feelings with their public persona at school. The story follows five teenage girls who discover they possess magical elemental powers and must work together as a team. Beyond the fantasy elements, the book deeply explores the emotional lives of the protagonists, showing them as relatable girls who argue, make mistakes, and even occasionally lie to their parents while trying to find their way. Parents will appreciate the focus on loyalty, courage, and the realistic portrayal of friendship as something that requires effort and honesty.