Families who loved We Are Big Time by Hena Kahn 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 navigating a major life transition, such as moving to a new city or switching schools, and needs to see how to maintain their personal identity while trying to fit into a new group. It is an ideal choice for children who feel they have to choose between their passions and their cultural or religious practices, offering a powerful blueprint for how to embrace both. The story follows Aliya as she moves from Florida to Wisconsin and joins a basketball team at an Islamic school. Through the lens of competitive sports, the book explores themes of self-confidence, breaking stereotypes, and the importance of female friendship. It is perfectly suited for middle-grade readers, providing a realistic and hopeful look at how a young person can advocate for themselves when others doubt their abilities. Parents will appreciate how it normalizes the hijabi experience while focusing on universal themes of perseverance and team spirit.