Sometimes, I receive requests that lead with the kids’ interests. Other times, though, relatability is at the forefront. Parents often write in requesting stories that align with the challenges or life circumstances of their kids—from friendship issues to ADHD and being biracial.
Today’s request features something I haven’t seen in a while:
Hi Afoma! Thank you so much for all of your fantastic recommendations! Would you have any recommendations for a 4th grade girl, advanced reader who enjoys stories like “Parachute kids” and “the chance to fly” that is also looking for stories with only children? My daughter is looking for more stories about only kids that don’t involve magical creatures or imaginary friends. I would appreciate any reccs!
How fun! And also, how challenging! Only children are well represented in middle grade literature, but not as much in lighthearted stories that might match this reader’s interests. So, I had a time digging up some old and new favorites.
I looked for a mix of graphic novels and prose and stuck to the “only children” rule—even though Parachute Kids stars a family with three kids—because it was a fun challenge. You’ll find picks with a musical (theater) connection and lighthearted realistic vibes.
Kalena Miller
This author’s books have flown so under the radar, which I think is such a shame. I loved her follow-up, South of Somewhere, even more. This one is about Shannon who has OCD and lives with her single mom. She's in her school's theater tech crew and prefers being out of the spotlight. But an accidental audition for her school's latest play lands her a role and immediately makes her the subject of her bestie's envy. Navigating that, her grandmother's visit, and her anxiety—with the help of her therapist—Shannon finds a way to use her voice. Hand to kids who love musical theater, friendship books, and stories about characters overcoming challenges. Ages 9+
Sharee Miller
Amazon | Bookshop | My full review
This is a fun series about a girl who moves to a new city and has to make new friends. She meets three other girls, and they form a solid friendship. They’re very into hair, hair styling, and fashion, so it forms the basis of their friendship. Ages 8+
Anne Rellihan
Lou has recently gone through a spat with her best friend Francie and the two are no longer speaking. Lou has also been ostracized by Francie and her new friend Madison. But when new girl Cece comes to town, she immediately gravitates toward Lou and asks her to be her guide and friend. A warm, funny story about friendship, guilt, and second chances. (Heads up for a brief kiss between tweens.) Ages 9+
Cassandra Calin
Kids who love Parachute Kids tend to enjoy Calin’s The New Girl, too. This book has SUPER CUTE illustrations. It’s a semi-autobiographical story of girl who moves from Romania to Canada. She also gets her period just as they move and has terrible cramps. She's struggling in a French immersion school as they live in Montreal. Very relatable. Meets Bogdan, a boy from Romania too. A funny, endearing story about immigrant experiences, language barriers, and finding your people. Ages 10+
Maleeha Siddiqui
When Nimra joins public school after years in Islamic school, she’s not expecting to become 1/4th of Barakah Beats, a popular boy band in her school. But joining a boy band conflicts with her Islamic beliefs. Can Nimra find a way to use her voice without going against her values or hurting her new friends and bandmates? Nimra is an only child and her parents obviously adore her. She loves art and drawing and they support her passions. Nimra also faces prejudice for wearing her hijab at school — even her best (and only friend initially) distances from her. This is an engaging middle grade book about balancing your faith with your passions while finding your tribe. Ages 9+
Claire Swinarski
When Kate is caught on camera saving her best friend, the clip goes viral and she’s hailed as an anti-bullying symbol. What no one knows is that Kate was part of a group bullying the same best friend. As she gains popularity in the news, she has to navigate straddling social groups and figuring out who she wants to be. Ages 9+
Which books would you recommend for this reader?
The middle school boys book club looking for a water sports-related story.
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