What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedNicholas in Trouble
René Goscinny, Jean-Jacques Sempé · Book · 2008
If you loved Nicholas in Trouble, start with Rebel Without a Cause (Nicholas Ray, 1955) — a film on the same thread. Below: 4 films, 4 series and 2 podcasts, each matched to Nicholas in Trouble across media.
What hooked you in Nicholas in Trouble is the way ordinary childhood mischief and well-intentioned schemes inevitably transform into hilarious, chaotic, and heartwarming social disasters.
Films on the same thread
Rebel Without a Cause
Nicholas Ray · Film · 1955
Explores: Alienation, Youth Rebellion, Moral Panic.
While Nicholas in Trouble focuses on schoolyard antics, this film captures the same feeling of a restless youth navigating social expectations and the search for identity amidst mounting pressures.
The Wrong Trousers
Nick Park · Film · 1993
Shares a thread with Nicholas in Trouble: Friendship.
Fans of the inventive trouble found in Nicholas in Trouble will appreciate how this film turns a simple domestic situation into a complex, high-stakes comedy of errors.
The 400 Blows
Film · 1959
Explores: Juvenile delinquency, Parental neglect, Loss of innocence.
Much like the episodic struggles in Nicholas in Trouble, this film follows a young boy whose attempts to navigate the adult world consistently lead to unintended and difficult consequences.
Where Is The Friend's House?
Abbas Kiarostami · Film · 1987
Explores: Childhood Innocence, Responsibility, Perseverance.
This film mirrors the earnest focus on childhood responsibility seen in Nicholas in Trouble, highlighting the intense, singular mission of a boy trying to do the right thing.
Series on the same thread
The Ren & Stimpy Show
John Kricfalusi · Series · 1991
Explores: Dysfunctional Friendship, Slapstick Humor, Toilet Humor.
If you enjoyed the way Nicholas in Trouble highlights the bond between friends who constantly find themselves in trouble, you will recognize that same dynamic in this absurd animation.
Recess
Paul Germain · Series · 1997
Shares a thread with Nicholas in Trouble: Friendship.
This series captures the exact spirit of schoolyard politics and group dynamics that make Nicholas in Trouble such a charming exploration of friendship and authority in the classroom.
The Honeymooners
Jackie Gleason · Series · 1955
Shares a thread with Nicholas in Trouble: Friendship.
The get-rich-quick schemes and domestic friction that define Nicholas in Trouble are mirrored here, as these characters constantly find their plans derailed by their own misguided efforts.
'Allo 'Allo!
David Croft · Series · 1984
Explores: World War II, French Resistance, Mistaken Identity.
You will appreciate how this sitcom uses the same farcical, episodic structure found in Nicholas in Trouble to showcase how a well-meaning protagonist creates his own constant problems.
Podcasts on the same thread
Story Pirates
Story Pirates · Podcast · 2026
Shares a thread with Nicholas in Trouble: Humor.
Because Nicholas in Trouble celebrates the unique perspective of children, you will love how this podcast transforms the creative, imaginative, and humorous stories written by kids into reality.
Sh**ged Married Annoyed
Chris & Rosie Ramsey · Podcast · 2026
Explores: domestic life, modern marriage, parenthood struggles.
Just as Nicholas in Trouble finds humor in the daily frustrations of life, this podcast highlights the chaotic, relatable, and funny realities of managing a household and raising children.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is Nicholas in Trouble the first book in the series?
No, Nicholas in Trouble is the fifth title in the beloved series by René Goscinny and Jean-Jacques Sempé. It continues the adventures of Nicholas and his friends as they navigate school life and various humorous situations involving their long-suffering teacher.
What kind of activities do the children get up to in Nicholas in Trouble?
In Nicholas in Trouble, the children engage in several activities, including selling raffle tickets for a good cause and learning how to cross the road safely. They also frequently bring various interesting items to school, which often causes significant consternation for their teacher.
Does Nicholas in Trouble feature illustrations?
Yes, Nicholas in Trouble features illustrations throughout the book. These drawings by Jean-Jacques Sempé accompany the stories of Nicholas and his gang, providing a visual element to the events that occur in the classroom and beyond.
Who are the authors of Nicholas in Trouble?
Nicholas in Trouble was written by René Goscinny and illustrated by Jean-Jacques Sempé. This 2008 publication is the fifth installment in the series, documenting the daily life and school experiences of the character Nicholas and his classmates.