Families who loved Earnest Sandpiper’s Great Ascent by Timothy Basil Ering 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 the last one in their peer group to master a milestone, whether it is riding a bike, swimming without floaties, or starting a new grade. It is a comforting balm for children who feel 'stuck' while those around them seem to soar effortlessly. The story follows Earnest, a young sandpiper who is terrified of flight despite his siblings' success and his parents' encouragement. Through whimsical illustrations and a gentle narrative, the book explores themes of self-trust, patience, and the idea that everyone has their own internal clock for bravery. It is an ideal choice for preschoolers and early elementary students who need to know that their fear is valid and that 'magic' happens when they are truly ready, not just when they are told to be.
