Books › The Landry News › Books like it
If you loved
Books like The Landry News
A thoughtful, empowering exploration of the weight of words and the courage it takes to speak the truth in a fifth-grade classroom. These 12 books are the closest matches in mood, pace and themes, with what each one shares with The Landry News.
- chalk-dusted
- reflective
- quietly inspiring
- hopeful
- 01
Frindle
Andrew Clements
A playful battle of wits in a fifth-grade classroom spirals into an unstoppable linguistic phenomenon.
- 02
Lunch money
Andrew Clements
A clever, energetic exploration of schoolyard economics and the unexpected joy of turning your biggest rival into your best collaborator.
- 03
Class dismissed
Allan Woodrow
A hilarious, high-energy romp about the chaotic freedom of a classroom left entirely to its own devices—and the unexpected challenges of keeping it a secret.
- 04
Nothing's Fair in Fifth Grade
Barthe DeClements · 1981
A raw, honest look at the cruelty of the classroom that slowly thaws into a story of unexpected solidarity and grace.
- 05
Sixth Grade Can Really Kill You
Barthe DeClements · 1991
An empathetic, grounded look at the heavy armor kids wear to hide their deepest insecurities.
- 06
Amber Brown Goes Fourth
Paula Danziger
A funny, deeply empathetic snapshot of growing up and finding your footing when everything around you is changing.
- 07
Strider
Beverly Cleary · 1991
A heartfelt, diary-style journey of a young teen finding his footing through the love of a rescue dog and the rhythm of running.
- 08
Clementine
Sara Pennypacker
A warm, energetic romp through the mind of a fiercely observant child who can't help but find trouble while trying to help.
- 09
The Year of Billy Miller
Kevin Henkes
A warm, reassuring hug of a book that celebrates the quiet triumphs of everyday childhood.
- 10
Julie Tells Her Story
Megan McDonald
A gentle, historical exploration of a young reader navigating the emotional ripples of family change and the courage it takes to be honest.
- 11
Nobody listens to Andrew
Elizabeth Guilfoile
A gentle, relatable exploration of a child's need to be heard in a busy world.
- 12
First day jitters
Julie Danneberg
A clever, comforting twist on back-to-school anxiety that proves absolutely everyone gets nervous sometimes.











