Families who loved The Knights of Mars by Alex Alice 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 weight of family expectations or feels a pull toward independence and discovery. In this breathtaking steampunk adventure, young Seraphin and his friends must navigate a world of 19th-century political intrigue and scientific wonder to rescue his missing father. It is a story that beautifully balances the anxiety of loss with the thrill of exploration. While the setting is fantastical, the emotional core focuses on the courage required to protect those we love against overwhelming odds. Parents will appreciate the lush watercolor artwork and the sophisticated way it handles themes of peace versus militarism. It is a perfect choice for middle schoolers who enjoy historical fiction but crave the high stakes of a space odyssey. The narrative encourages bravery and teamwork, showing that even the smallest voices can influence the course of history.