Families who loved Do You Believe in Magic? by Ed Newbery-King 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 feels limited by their physical circumstances, struggles with social isolation, or needs to see that their inner strength is more important than their outward appearance. This story follows Missy, a young girl with a debilitating physical disability in 1952, and Zach, a modern-day orphan facing bullies. Both are transported to a magical realm where they must use empathy and love to defeat an evil sorcerer. It is a heartwarming portal fantasy that addresses themes of bravery, family devotion, and the idea that every child, regardless of their mobility or background, possesses a unique power to change the world. It is best suited for readers aged 9 to 14 who are ready for a longer, quest-driven narrative with a hopeful, moral core.