Families who loved Bad News by Pseudonymous Bosch 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 feels like they do not quite fit the mold or is struggling to find their place within a group. It is a perfect choice for the creative, quirky middle-grader who loves puzzles and secret codes but also deals with feelings of being misunderstood by authority figures. The story follows Clay, a boy at a camp for wayward kids, as he joins forces with a group of secret allies to protect a dragon reserve from a mysterious cult. While the plot is full of magical adventure and humor, the heart of the book is about the emotional safety found in chosen family and the bravery required to trust others. It celebrates the idea that being an outsider is actually a secret superpower, making it a supportive read for children building their self-confidence and learning the value of teamwork.