Families who loved The Dog That Called the Signals by Matt Christopher 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 facing a moral crossroads between winning at all costs and playing with integrity. It is an ideal choice for the young athlete who feels the weight of competition and might be tempted to use shortcuts or unfair advantages to come out on top. The story follows Mike and his dog Harry, who shares a telepathic link with Mike that allows them to predict plays on the football field. While the premise is lighthearted and magical, the emotional core focuses on the internal struggle of honesty and the definition of sportsmanship. As an early chapter book, it is perfectly paced for 7 to 10 year olds who are transitioning into longer narratives. Parents will appreciate how it uses a fun, supernatural element to ground a very real conversation about what it means to earn a victory fairly.
