Families who loved Agent Pensby and the Golden Fish by Carey Emmerson often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is starting to transition from picture books to chapter books and needs a story that rewards their curiosity rather than overwhelming them. It is an ideal choice for the child who feels a little small in a big world but possesses a sharp mind for patterns and puzzles. Through the eyes of Agent Pensby, a clever penguin secret agent, children learn that being brave does not mean you are never afraid, it means you keep moving forward anyway. The story follows Pensby as he attempts to solve the mystery of a missing golden fish, blending lighthearted animal humor with a classic detective structure. Beyond the fun gadgets and disguises, the book highlights themes of justice and perseverance. It is a confidence builder for early readers, offering a sophisticated secret agent aesthetic in a format that feels accessible, safe, and deeply rewarding for young minds discovering their own talents.
