What This Book Is About
Lola Levine is a second-grader who loves soccer, painting, and her family more than anything. She's the kind of kid who gives everything 100 percent—especially on the soccer field. But when an overly competitive game at recess leads to an accidental collision, suddenly Lola finds herself labeled as "mean" by her classmates. A cruel petition goes around the class: "Lola Levine Is Mean." Overnight, the girl who thought she had friends discovers she has none.
With the help of her mom's journaling advice, her dad's Peruvian dichos (sayings), and her own fierce determination, Lola sets out to prove that being strong and being kind are not opposites. Monica Brown has created a protagonist who is joyfully bilingual—Lola switches between English and Spanish as naturally as breathing—and whose mixed Jewish and Peruvian heritage is woven into every chapter with warmth and authenticity. Angela Dominguez's charming illustrations, including Lola's own diary entries and drawings, make this short chapter book feel like a personal treasure.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why We Recommend This Book
Lola Levine Is Not Mean! is a powerful choice for international school students because it mirrors their own reality. Lola navigates multiple languages and cultures daily—exactly what children in Singapore's international schools do. Seeing a protagonist who code-switches between English and Spanish validates the experience of bilingual and multilingual readers, building both reading confidence and cultural pride.
The book also tackles bullying, reputation, and the courage to stand up for yourself—themes that are deeply relevant to Grade 3 social dynamics. At only 112 pages with diary entries, lists, and illustrations breaking up the text, it's an ideal first chapter book for emerging independent readers. The emotional honesty and age-appropriate conflict resolution make it a natural conversation starter in classrooms focused on UWC's values of empathy and respect.
Reading Level Guide
Building reading foundations? Start with picture books and simple labeled stories.
The sweet spot. Diary-style chapters and short sentences are perfect for A1; A2 readers will breeze through.
A quick, easy read. Perfect for leisure or as a warm-up before longer chapter books.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.