Families who loved Ball by Mary Sullivan 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 struggling with the big feelings that come from waiting, whether it is for a parent to finish work or for a playdate to begin. This nearly wordless story follows an enthusiastic dog whose entire world revolves around a red ball and the person who throws it. Through expressive illustrations, it explores themes of patience, persistence, and the pure joy of anticipation. It is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers who are learning to navigate boredom and the passage of time. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's single-minded focus on play while providing a humorous mirror for their own high-energy pets or children.