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Here are five TV shows and movies that carry similar themes of family, cultural roots, childhood magic, and facing fears, like those found in Lola Reyes is So Not Worried:
1. Coco (2017)
A heartwarming animated film about Miguel, a young boy who, despite his family’s ban on music, dreams of becoming a musician. On Día de los Muertos, he accidentally enters the Land of the Dead, where he learns about his family’s history and finds the importance of connecting with his ancestors. This vibrant movie is rich with Mexican culture and explores themes of family, legacy, and self-discovery.
2. Encanto (2021)
Set in Colombia, this magical Disney film follows the Madrigal family, each member blessed with unique powers – except for Mirabel. She embarks on a journey to uncover family secrets to save her home. It’s a tale of family pressure, self-worth, and the weight of carrying one’s heritage, with plenty of humor, love, and music.
3. The Book of Life (2014)
This is a visually striking animated film where Manolo, a young man torn between family expectations and his heart’s desire, journeys through different worlds, confronting fears, family legacies, and lost love. The film is rooted in Mexican folklore and celebrates bravery, love, and cultural identity.
4. Onward (2020)
Two elf brothers embark on a magical quest to bring back their late father for one day. Along the way, they must confront their own insecurities, deepen their bond, and find closure. The movie mixes humor and heart, exploring sibling relationships, grief, and resilience.
5. My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
In this Studio Ghibli classic, two sisters move to the countryside, where they meet forest spirits who help them deal with challenges, including the illness of their mother. It’s a gentle, whimsical film that balances adventure with themes of resilience, childhood wonder, and the healing power of nature.
These stories all have elements of magical realism, connection to family, and the courage to face personal challenges—perfect if you enjoyed the themes in Lola Reyes is So Not Worried.
Lola Reyes Is So Not Worried by Cindy L. Rodriguez weaves a heartfelt and enchanting story about grief, family, and facing our deepest anxieties. Lola Reyes, torn between the warmth of Guatemala and the chilly reality of Sunnyside, returns home with a unique reminder of her late Pop—a box of his childhood worry dolls. But when the dolls come to life, growing with every worry Lola shares, the story takes a magical twist. Suddenly, Lola is caught in a whirlwind as she scrambles to capture the ever-growing, cursed dolls with the reluctant help of her nemesis, Chance Townsend.
Rodriguez creates a tender exploration of loss, family bonds, and resilience, allowing readers to journey with Lola as she learns the power of facing her emotions head-on. The dynamic between Lola and Chance adds humor and depth, while the magical realism of the worry dolls brings an imaginative layer that young readers will find captivating. With themes of cultural heritage, emotional bravery, and friendship, Lola Reyes Is So Not Worried is a beautifully written reminder that facing our fears can be the first step toward healing.
Reviewed by: Orsayor
