Families who loved Clever Polly and the Stupid Wolf by Catherine Storr 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 navigate the world independently and needs to feel confident that their wits are their best tool for safety. It is a perfect choice for children who may feel intimidated by older peers or 'big' problems, showing them that being clever is more effective than being strong. The stories follow Polly, a young girl who is constantly being pursued by a wolf who wants to eat her. Rather than being a source of terror, the wolf is a bumbling, comic foil whom Polly outsmarts using common sense, logic, and a cool head. Published in the 1950s, these tales offer a refreshing alternative to traditional damsel-in-distress narratives. It is ideal for ages 5 to 8, providing a safe way to explore themes of stranger danger and problem-solving through humor. Parents will appreciate how Polly models self-reliance and intellectual bravery without ever needing to rely on an adult to save her.
