Families who loved Charlie Anderson by Barbara Abercrombie 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 navigating the logistics of living in two homes or if you are preparing for a change in family structure. This gentle story follows a cat named Charlie who lives with two sisters by night and a neighbor by day. It uses the metaphor of a beloved pet having 'two houses' to normalize the concept of joint custody without being overly clinical or heavy-handed. It is an ideal choice for children ages 4 to 8 who may be feeling anxious about where they belong or whether they can be equally loved in two different places. By focusing on Charlie's happiness and the abundance of love he receives from both families, the story offers a comforting, low-pressure way to talk about the 'new normal' of a blended or split family life.