Families who loved Bo & Mzzz Mad by Sid Fleischman 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 grappling with the aftermath of a family loss or is feeling like an outsider in a new environment. It is a perfect choice for kids who use humor as a defense mechanism or those who need to see that 'family' can be found in the most unlikely, prickly places. The story follows Bo, an orphan who is sent to live in a remote desert town with an eccentric relative and a long-standing family feud. Sid Fleischman uses his signature wit and zest to explore heavy themes like grief and forgiveness without ever becoming maudlin. It is an adventurous, funny, and deeply comforting read for children ages 8 to 12 who are learning to navigate big life transitions and the complexities of adult relatives.