Families who loved Chestbox and the Cursed Tangerine by Michael Oaf McBride often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent would reach for this book when their child is navigating a cycle of reactive anger or struggling to see how their grumpy disposition affects those around them. This absurdist fantasy follows Chestbox, a perpetually angry child who faces a literal curse after being rude to a piece of fruit. Through the manifestation of external demons, the story provides a visual metaphor for the internal monsters that anger creates. It is an ideal pick for children who respond better to humor and slightly edgy, spooky themes than to traditional, soft-toned lessons on manners. Parents will appreciate the way it uses high-stakes fantasy to explore the concept of self-inflicted misery and the power of a positive attitude. While the imagery is slightly dark, it remains firmly rooted in the 6 to 10 age range by keeping the resolution hopeful and the tone distinctly comedic.
