Families who loved Burglar Bill by Allan Ahlberg 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 test boundaries or has made a mistake and feels they cannot fix it. While it begins with a thief's humorous lifestyle, it is ultimately a story about the transformative power of empathy and the idea that it is never too late to start over. It provides a non-threatening way to discuss accountability and the 'why' behind rules. Burglar Bill is a career thief who lives a lonely life until he accidentally 'steals' a baby. Caring for someone else changes his heart, leading him to return his stolen goods and find a path toward honesty and family. Parents will appreciate the cozy, retro illustrations and the message that our choices define us more than our pasts. It is a gentle, funny classic perfect for ages 3 to 7.