Families who loved Dog & Hat and the Lost Polka Dots by Darin Shuler 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 in a 'silly' phase and needs a high-energy, visual story that celebrates creative problem-solving and unshakeable friendship. It is perfect for reluctant readers who respond well to humor and fast-paced action. When Dog's favorite polka dots literally fall off his shirt and vanish down a drain, he and his loyal friend Hat dive into a surreal underground world to get them back. This graphic chapter book uses an absurdist lens to explore themes of teamwork and perseverance. While the setting is a bit 'weird' and features various monsters, the tone remains lighthearted and supportive. It is an ideal choice for children ages 6 to 9 who are transitioning into independent reading and enjoy stories that don't take themselves too seriously while still modeling a strong, collaborative bond between protagonists.
