Families who loved Crafty Cat and the Great Butterfly Battle by Charise Mericle Harper 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 spiraling after a small mistake, particularly if they are prone to perfectionism or 'performance anxiety' during school projects. It is a gentle yet effective tool for children who struggle with the gap between their creative vision and the physical results of their hands. Birdie, a young cat, is excited for the Great Butterfly Battle at school, but when her handmade butterfly is accidentally crushed, she feels a deep sense of shame and failure. Through her alter ego, Crafty Cat, she learns to pivot and find value in her effort rather than just the final product. This graphic novel is perfect for children ages 6 to 9, offering a relatable model for emotional resilience and the power of creative problem-solving. It normalizes the 'oops' moments of childhood and helps parents foster a growth mindset in their little creators.
