Practically Perfect: Mary Poppins Readalikes

A tea party on the ceiling. A dance across the rooftops of London. Diving into a chalk drawing.

There are almost too many magical moments to count in the 1964 Disney adaptation of Mary Poppins starring Julie Andrews, based on the books by P.L. Travers. But the most magical moment of them all is when stern, overworked Mr. Banks remembers how to laugh and the whole family heads to the park to fly kites together.

Now that everybody's favorite nanny is back for a magical new adventure in Mary Poppins Returns, let's celebrate by exploring more tales of magical caretakers.

Dragons in a Bag: Ma might have raised his mother, but Jax isn't sure he wants to spend an afternoon with her. If Ma and his mom are related, why hasn't he ever met her? Why is she so grouchy? And what's inside that box?

How Tía Lola Came to Visit Stay: When his Tía Lola travels all the way from the Dominican Republic to Vermont to visit him, Miguel is suspicious. He's the new kid at school, his parents just got divorced and he's not sure his quirky aunt and her brightly colored dresses are going to make his life any easier. But maybe, just maybe, there's something a little magical about Tía Lola. 

Missy Piggle-Wiggle and the Whatever Cure: Missy Piggle-Wiggle, niece of Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle, has just inherited her aunt's Upside-Down House and everything that comes with it, including the family business: brewing potions to help correct all sorts of rude and annoying habits.

Mr. Gedrick and Me: Patrick is having a hard time. His father has just died, but instead of coming together, it feels like his family is falling apart. Enter Mr. Gedrick. Can the maybe-magical nanny use his powers to help Patrick's family heal?

Happy reading!